The recent Australian bushfires have ravaged many parts of the east coast landscape including many popular holiday spots. It has also been reported that one billion animals have been affected by the bushfires.
The devastation is real, and so too the short-term effects on travel in Australia. The United States issued a high-level warning for those wishing to travel to Australia recently, before being downgraded. What Australia is telling Australians – and the world – now is that it is safe to travel here.
Many regions will need as many travellers as possible to help affected towns recovery and boost local economies. Overseas travellers will need to decide for themselves whether they travel here, but it’s crucial for Australians to help now. This is why the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) is now encouraging Australians to #HolidayHereThisYear so we can all help to revive our local regions affected by bushfires.
This week, ATIC Executive Director Simon Westaway said: “There is no better time for Australians to support their neighbouring communities, many who are doing it hard. This is so demonstrably achieved through the social and economic impetus that touring, visiting, recreating and overnighting in our regions delivers.”
So how can we all get out there and holiday within Australia this year? It’s easy, just by implementing your existing travel knowledge and know-how.
Start planning your roadtrips now!
The traditional Australian roadtrip is the first step to help struggling regions get back on their feet. Creating an incredible roadtrip really is possible and is easy to do. Even if it’s a weekend away or a few days off from work, we all have the ability to plan a few roadtrips throughout the year. You can head to those destinations that are on your travel wish list. Seize this crucial time while helping those who need your travelling dollars the most.
You can also visit this post for more tips on how to create an incredible roadtrip. A visit to the Roadtrip for Good website will be another great place to start. Here, you can spear-head your trip to fire-affected communities. You can also receive safety alerts so you can plan your travel at the safest times to travel.
Travel interstate to support your states people
Travelling interstate is another way to help the rest of Australia. While your state may have been directly affected by bushfires, chances are your neighbouring states have been affected as well. There are some helpful tools at the Australia website to help you plan where to go and what to do.
Keep up to date with the latest events and fundraisers
If you’re struggling to discover which events need your support, then head to the Vegan Australia website. Here, you’ll find vegan events happening across Australia. Plus, you’ll find the latest bushfire fundraising events that are vegan and may need your support. Subscribe to Vegan Australia’s newsletter so you can be updated weekly.
…and don’t forget Australia’s most vegan-friendly small towns
There are vegan surprises to be found in many parts of regional Australia, with a selection of small towns that are surprisingly vegan-friendly. PETA Australia has an incredible round-up on Australia’s most vegan-friendly towns that you can use to plot your trip. Keep up to date with any new locations using the Happy Cow website or app. The Fussy Vegan has now added a travel app to its suite, too. Remember, there’s still a week left of Veganuary to inspire you!
Take your usual travel precautions
Take your usual travel precautions and make sure you research the area you’re travelling to. You may need to pack a few extra items like a facemask or air filter if the local weather conditions change. You can keep up to date with air quality levels via a Real-time Air Quality Index Visual Map.
You can also keep up to date with air quality and local weather reports from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. Downloading the Bureau’s app is another quality tool that will provide you with updates during your travels.
Don’t forget to book your travel insurance, too, and familiarise yourself with your policy’s terms and conditions. Make sure your car’s travel insurance is up-to-date, and get your car serviced before you go on a roadtrip.
So,Travellers. Where in Australia do you want to travel to in 2020? I’d love to hear about your plans and how you’re going to support those affected by the Australian bushfires in the comments below.
