Choice Hotels Asia-Pac has unveiled its 2020 list of the top 100 hidden regional travel destinations and experiences from across Australia and New Zealand, with the aim of supporting and showcasing regional communities as we reignite our love for domestic travel.
Taking inspiration from Choice Hotels’ more than 180 hotel locations that stretch far and wide across both Australia and New Zealand, the inaugural 100 Untold Stories list shines light on the hidden gems, intriguing stories, fascinating people and must-visit experiences that are the beating heart of regional areas.
From Japanese monkeys found in Launceston, Tasmania, to the crystal clear waters of Lake Entrance in Victoria’s Gippsland region; Crocosauras Cove in the Top End and the Underground Opera in Rockhampton Queensland; the carefully curated list of 100 Untold Stories includes adventures across themes of food and wine, nature, sport, art, culture and many more fascinating and wonderful things to explore.
Trent Fraser, CEO of Choice Hotels Asia-Pac said: “No doubt, 2020 has been a tough year for our communities. As we begin to emerge from the devastating impact of recent bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic, regional tourism is more important than ever in helping these areas get back on their feet and thrive again, safely, and securely.
“With international travel on the back burner for the foreseeable future, there is no better time to consider taking a short break to explore our own backyard and ultimately feed tourism back into regional areas again – instead of that big international trip why not take 3-4 short breaks and explore our beautiful country,” he added.
“We hope the Choice Hotels 100 Untold Stories list will become the ultimate bucket-list guide for where to get out and explore our own backyard”, said Fraser.
Over and above the impact domestic short breaks have on contributing to regional economies, recent research commissioned by Choice Hotels has demonstrated the importance of short breaks on our health and wellbeing.
So, what do we want out of a short break? The research by Choice Hotels uncovered the top three motivations to take a short break holiday are to spend time with family (39 percent), visit a new destination (28 percent) and try something new or different (23 percent).
“We want people to feel optimistic, excited and safe about the upcoming reopening of domestic travel and give them the opportunity to book with confidence and have something to look forward to – it’s our intention that 100 Untold Stories list will become a great source of inspiration for travel at home”, said Fraser.
As part of its response to ensuring guests feel safe and secure when travelling on their short breaks, Choice Hotels has implemented its Commitment to Clean initiative which involves enhanced protocols and best practice guidance for cleaning, disinfecting, hygiene, and social distancing.
For inspiration on where to spend your next short break holiday and to see the full list of 100 Untold Stories visit www.100UntoldStories.com
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