Why Tasmania Surprised Me
Jenny Revesz • September 22, 2025
Why Tasmania Surprised Me
When Tourism Australia invited me to experience Tasmania for the very first time, I was curious but didn’t realize just how much this small island would leave such a mighty impression. Tasmania may be compact, but it is bursting with wild beauty, incredible food and wine, and some of the most genuinely welcoming people I’ve ever met. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was being let in on a secret—one that I couldn’t believe had taken me this long to discover.
There were so many standout moments. I adored my time at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary,
which I loved with a passion. Meeting the animals, hearing their stories, and witnessing the dedication to conservation was something I’ll never forget. From there, the experiences just kept layering on: exploring the historic charm of Richmond, enjoying a long lunch and wine tastings at Mayfield Estate, visiting the breathtaking Saffire Freycinet
and Cape Tourville Lighthouse, and taking a circumnavigation cruise of Maria Island, which was pure magic.
Food and culture surprised me, too. One evening I sat down to an incredible meal at the Leatherwood Bar & Kitchen, another day I immersed myself in the heritage of Curringa Farm, and I was deeply moved while touring the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site, which told a powerful and emotional story of Tasmania’s past. For a fun twist, I took the MONA ferry
in the “Posh Pit,” sipping bubbles on the way to MONA itself—a museum unlike anywhere else in the world. I also toured MACq 01, where the storytelling experience of “Hidden Hobart” brought the city’s layers of history to life. And thanks to a fortunate schedule change, I had an extra day to wander the Salamanca Market—a feast for the senses and such a joy to explore.
What struck me most was how easy it is to get around. Driving is straightforward, and within short distances you can go from heritage towns to pristine national parks, from cutting-edge art to remote coastlines. Tasmania makes you slow down, savor, and connect—with the land, the people, and yourself.
Tasmania surprised me because it offered far more than I imagined. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience that’s refined yet raw, intimate yet vast, and above all, welcoming. I left wondering why it had taken me so long to visit, and I know it won’t be my last time.
In August I had the absolute privilege of escorting a wonderful group through Tanzania — and what a trip it was! From Tarangire to the Ngorongoro Crater and then up to the Serengeti for the Great Migration, every single day gave us moments I’ll carry with me forever. Tarangire welcomed us with its beautiful baobab trees and wide-open landscapes, and right away we were spoiled with incredible wildlife. A real highlight was spotting a cheetah with her three little cubs — such a special sight. At Craters Edge, the magic didn’t stop. One night we had an elephant wander right through camp! Waking up and realizing just how close we were to these giants of Africa was equal parts thrilling and humbling. Then came the Serengeti — and what timing. We were there to witness the largest river crossing of the year in Kogatende. To stand there, watching thousands of wildebeest plunge into the river, knowing that every calf has its own call so it can find its mother again if they’re separated — it was emotional, powerful, and something none of us will ever forget. And just when we thought it couldn’t get better, our final sundowner turned into one last surprise: the wildebeest migration came thundering right past us. Pure magic. But it wasn’t only about the wildlife. Our walking safari, with the rangers and guides keeping us safe, gave us such a different perspective of the bush. And the warmth of the camp staff — singing to us, caring for us, making us feel part of their family — left us all a little teary when it was time to say goodbye. For me, the very best part was watching my clients live these moments for themselves — their excitement, their laughter, and the way they completely embraced the adventure. Seeing them fall in love with Tanzania made my heart so full. This trip was everything I hoped it would be and more. I’m already counting down until I can return.
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
