Katie Carlin
Verified
Deputy Editor, writer, painter, lover of adventure & constant overthinker. This is my personal Twitter account.
Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Katie Carlin
the luxury floating villa stay with a sauna and fireplace
This Sydney EV road trip ends in a luxury floating villa stay Credit: @jampal Sydney Driving Holidays Sydney Katie Carlin This city-to-coastal drive from Sydney to Palm Beach ends with a stay at one of Australia’s most unique accommodations.
The 12 best weekend getaways in Victoria
The 12 best weekend getaways in Victoria Credit: Saskia K Photography Victoria Imogen Eveson Katie Carlin Eleanor Edström Emily Murphy Reset in Geelong, Grampians, the Goldfields and and beyond with these unforgettable weekend getaways in Victoria. From snowy alpine ranges and rugged coastlines to electrifying cities and heritage gold rush towns, Victoria’s locales are as diverse as they are delightful. Discover why these spots make the cut among the top weekend escapes in Victoria.
The 10 best weekend escapes in NSW
The 10 best weekend escapes in NSW Credit: Laura Grzelak New South Wales Eleanor Edström Carla Grossetti Katie Carlin Eleanor Edström Ready for a change of scenery but don’t want to travel far? The best weekend escapes in NSW are all about switching off, slowing down and seeing somewhere new. New South Wales is home to a plethora of peaceful pockets that will transport you worlds away from reality.
Canada's little-known fishing town rivals Denmark's Nyhavn
Katie Carlin is International Traveller's Head of Content and when she’s not travelling or behind her computer, she’s hosting a dinner party (likely cooking an Alison Roman recipe). She joined International Traveller in 2018 and is responsible for leading the editorial team across print, digital, social, email and native content. Her job is to make sure we create content that connects readers to incredible experiences in around the world.
7 pinch-me moments I had at the new Monarto Safari Resort
7 pinch-me moments I had at the new Monarto Safari Lodge Adelaide Katie Carlin Monarto Safari Resort’s new Safari Lodge delivers so much more than a memorable stay; it’s packed full of unforgettable moments. Just a year after the 78-room Monarto Safari Resort opened, the new Safari Lodge brings a more intimate and exclusive overnight African safari experience to Australia just outside of Adelaide. But just how similar is it to an African safari?
Are we living in a new golden age of travel? Why travellers have never had it so good
New user features It’s mobile-first, so searching International Traveller on the go will be incredibly easy – and fast! We’ve simplified the navigation – you can now search the website via the AI-powered search bar or the more traditional drop-down menu, where you can explore by experience, destination or accommodation. And if you know where you want to go, hit the Explore button to toggle between a list of countries or be inspired by our curated list of popular destinations.
Here's what it's like flying Premium Economy with China Southern Airlines
Is it worth parting with some hard-earned cash or points for a premium economy upgrade flying to Guangzhou with China Southern Airlines? Here’s what you need to know. Australia is without doubt a fabulous place to live, but a decided drawback is the long-haul reality of international travel. One way to make those travel hours more pleasant is to splurge a little on premium economy—even if you’re not quite making it to the pointy end of the plane.
The best restaurants in Queenstown
Enjoy an unforgettable bite at one of these top-notch eateries. When you think of Queenstown, outdoor pursuits involving crisp mountain vistas, scenic waterways, and epic ski runs might come to mind, but New Zealand’s adventure capital has some pretty exciting options for foodies too. From cosy pub-style fare and the best burgers in town to artisan degustation experiences showcasing the finest modern New Zealand cuisine, these are the Queenstown restaurants that will have you rushing indoors.
This scenic 11km trek in Fiji ends with a night in a remote highland village
Trek through Fiji’s remote grasslands and spend the night in a traditional highland village in this rare immersive stay. Far from Fiji’s beaches, on the island of Viti Levu, you can hike between the remote villages of Naga and Nubutautau. The 11-kilometre route through the Fijian highlands follows a narrow pig track used by local farmers, and the life-giving Sigatoka River, and is one of the toughest and most rewarding day treks I’ve done.
Swim with giant clams and relax by turquoise waters at this Samoan sanctuary
Swim alongside giant clams in a vibrant marine sanctuary before unwinding in a beach fale along Samoa’s pristine coastline. The phrase “happy as a clam” rarely rings truer than on the Samoan island of Upolo. In the village of Savaia on the southwestern coast, a marine reserve protects approximately 80 large faisua (giant clams), plus a small flotilla of sea turtles.
I trialled Holafly eSIM in China and this is my verdict
Staying connected while travelling is more complicated in China, but is HolaFly the solution you’re looking for? When I found myself unexpectedly travelling to China recently, almost my first thought was ‘How will I stay connected’ while I’m away? Having a phone in hand and the internet at our fingertips seems non-negotiable with travel now. God forbid the possibility of even temporarily being without that all-encompassing digital security blanket we’ve become so reliant on.
Wake up to zebras at Monarto Safari Lodge
This winter, these secret Sydney harbour suites are the staycation we’ve been looking for. Whether it’s the crisscrossing ferries or the white sails of the Opera House rising out of blue depths, Australia’s biggest city lives for its harbour. But while locals might glance at that watery expanse on their daily commute across the Bridge, it can still be hard to truly connect with Sydney’s maritime soul. The secret: seeing the harbour eye-to-eye, right at water level.
Here are the 11 most exciting travel experiences on the planet for 2026
According to the world’s best experiential travel show. How do travel editors get their ideas? From press trips, personal travels and pitches from our plugged-in contributors to updates from a global network of publicists who always seem to have their finger on the pulse. But one of my favourite ways of researching is by attending an industry event like PURE Life Experiences.
At the foot of the pyramids, Egypt finally tells its own story
Ancient Egyptian history has been scattered across the globe for decades, admired, preserved, and studied, but it’s rarely seen where it actually belongs. The newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) brings it home. From a viewing platform inside the Grand Egyptian Museum, the Great Pyramids of Giza rise from the desert, and for a moment, it feels like modern Egypt and ancient Egypt are shaking hands. The museum, grand in name and reality, has been a long time coming—since 1992, to be exact.
2025 Readers' Choice Awards: Best hotel
Winner: Marina Bay Sands Why you love it… A visionary architectural feat that has redefined Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay Sands perfectly captures the city’s bold yet sophisticated energy. Its 57-storey-high rooftop infinity pool – arguably the most Instagrammed on the planet – floats above the dazzling cityscape, offering cinematic views stretching to the South China Sea.
2025 Readers' Choice Awards: Best beach or island escape
Winner: Maldives Why you love it… The Maldives captivates with its silky turquoise seas, sugar-white sands and overwater villas that stand in the ocean like the skinny-legged maakana (grey heron). Fall into a pattern of swinging in a hammock, swimming in the tranquil lagoons, fine dining under starlit skies and enjoying barefoot-chic island resorts where the scene is set for relaxation and romance.
The ultimate itinerary for a romantic weekend in Mudgee
The best romantic itinerary for a weekend in Mudgee Mudgee Eating Out By Katie Carlin Plan your escape to Mudgee for a romantic weekend in NSW’s prolific Central Ranges wine region. There is something about escaping to the country with your significant other that feels deeply romantic. The frenetic pace of the city or the busyness of home falls away, and a weekend full of romantic possibilities opens up in front of you.
Victoria's Best Blissful Day Spas And Hot Springs
Incredible day spas and hot springs to visit in Victoria Victoria By Katie Carlin From geothermal pools and luxury spa sanctuaries, Victoria’s mineral-rich waters and restorative landscapes offer total renewal. I pass waving coastal spear-grass and coast saltbush as I follow the curving path through 15 hectares of thoughtfully curated gardens at the Mornington Peninsula’s Alba Thermal Springs & Spa .
What’s New In Melbourne: Hotels, Restaurants and Attractions
The new hotels, restaurants and arts precinct reshaping Melbourne Melbourne Eating Out By Katie Carlin Melbourne has long held the crown of Australia’s cultural capital but refuses to rest on its laurels, with a slew of new openings demanding attention. I weave in and out of the giant yellow tentacles, craning my neck to see the spotted pumpkin they’re supporting metres above my head.
Tokyo's MIMARU Apartment Hotel now has Pokémon rooms
The neon jungle of Tokyo’s Toshima district is home to a very special hotel geared towards family-friendly stays – and it just got even better. Already renowned for its family-friendly stays, MIMARU has unlocked a new level of adventure with a playful renovation of its Pokémon rooms. Location Pokémon rooms are available in 10 MIMARU locations across three cities: Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka.
Victoria's newest mineral springs bathhouse now has luxury villas
Victoria’s newest mineral springs bathhouse now has luxury villas to match Mornington Peninsula By Katie Carlin The Mornington Peninsula’s newest bathhouse just became a complete wellness destination with the addition of The Sanctuary. It’s a quiet luxury mood board come to life. That’s my first thought when I enter the brand-new villa. It’s one of five perched at the highest point of the 15-hectare property that’s also home to Alba Thermal Springs and Spa.
Dining in South Korea is a lesson in old meets new culinary delights
InsideAsia's holidays to South Korea offer a journey into the rarest of the rare: a country that's packed to bursting with quirks, charm and cultural riches, especially when it comes to food. Every meal has a backstory in South Korea. It's not just how you eat - waiting for the eldest at the table to begin, pouring drinks for others before yourself, leaving food on your plate to signal you are full - but a meal is also an important link to the past, a reflection of Korea's vibrant traditions.
Australian Holidays and Travel Guide
AuthorsK Katie Carlin Katie Carlin is Australian Traveller's Head of Content and when she’s not travelling or behind her computer, she’s hosting a dinner party (likely cooking an Alison Roman recipe), at brunch, working on extending her running k’s, or has her nose buried in a book. She joined Australian Traveller in 2018 and is responsible for leading the editorial team across print, digital, social, email and native content.
Lumière Lodge is a lovingly restored Tassie cottage of dreams
Live out your vintage design dreams in this beautifully restored Tassie cottage. Perched prettily in a tree-lined street in the fringing suburb of West Hobart, a stay at Lumière Lodge is akin to style nirvana for those with a penchant for vintage aesthetics. A Pinterest board rendered real, owners Kerran and Sam have infused their heart and soul into the restoration of this storybook three-bedroom Victorian cottage.
The Lane Retreat is the perfect Hunter Valley stay for foodies
The Lane Retreat gives guests VIP access to two of the region’s best wineries, an award-winning restaurant, an alfresco pizzeria, and an onsite gourmet pantry for a foodie-fuelled weekend that is low on fuss and big on value. I’m watching kangaroos graze in the last light of day from the deck of my Lakeview Studio at The Lane Retreat, wine in hand. I arrived a couple of hours earlier with my husband for a two-night stay at the Hunter Valley’s newest winery accommodation.
This hyperlocal tour of South Korea reveals a destination on the rise
From K-pop to beauty, South Korea serves up culture in constant motion alongside meaningful connections to its rich heritage. It is rude to bite bossam, so you have to "shove the whole thing into your mouth". So says Local Insider Meggie Yu. We're seated cross-legged and shoeless at a table too low to the ground for chairs as she proceeds to show us how to assemble our first Korean dish in Seoul.
Is Jetstar Business Class from Sydney to Seoul worth it?
We give you an inside look at what it's like to fly onboard Jetstar's Boeing 787 Dreamliner Business Class between Sydney and Seoul. South Korea is quietly climbing up the ranks of Australia's list of most popular travel destinations, with the South Korean government reporting a record-breaking 198,000 Australian visitors in 2023 and 2024 numbers were expected to hit over 200,000 for the first time (with last reported numbers sitting at 170,000 in September).
An epic road trip from Launceston to Hobart by coach
The renaissance of train travel has been well documented, but is coach travel about to have its moment in the sun? I’m in my thirties. I haven’t been on a coach tour since I was 19 years old and exploring Europe for the first time. I’m sure you can guess which company transported me around the continent.
9 reasons to extend your stay in Melbourne now that the AO is over
Don’t cry because it’s over, Melbourne has more to serve up than just tennis. There is an electric energy that radiates through the city well before the first ball is served at Melbourne Park, and it doesn’t end when the last call of game set match is heard at Rod Laver Arena. Whether you’re weaving through the art-clad laneways in search of coffee or sipping limoncello spritzes by the Yarra River, Melbourne in summer is a city reborn.
The one holiday to never take when you’re heartbroken
The desire to flee the familiar when you’re nursing a broken heart is strong, but some destinations can heighten your sense of loss rather than help you forget it. It’s a rite of passage that few miss. I was 28 years old when I truly felt it for the first time. It was a short relationship that was intensified by timing; he was moving overseas in six months, I was not. It was one of the rare times I threw caution to the wind in hopeful lovesick optimism that somehow it would all work out.
This six-day hike in Tasmania is Australia's latest Great Walk
I shimmy my way through two oversized granite boulders, my backpack scraping as I go. I’ve been rock-hopping for more than an hour, but the colours make me forget myself; tangerine- and mint-splattered granite outcrops meet glass-like waters that reflect shades of blue, as black-pied oystercatchers pace the shore.
Take in these 10 road trip wonders to entice you around Australia
Set off into South Australia’s rugged red wilderness in search of adventure, swap bitumen for sand on the Sunshine Coast, and toast to the freedom of the open road in Victoria’s High Country. This article is part of Australian Traveller‘s 100 Australian Wonders series. Throughout the series, they explore our nation’s wonders across culture, nature, food, islands and many more. We hope it inspires your own exploration of Australia’s many wonders.
This Six-Day Hike in Tasmania is Australia's Latest Great Walk
Leading hikers between the ruggedheights and coastal delights of Tassie’s Flinders Island, the latest Great Walk of Australia is an exercise in untamed beauty and human connection. I shimmy my way through two oversized granite boulders, my backpack scraping as I go. I’ve been rock-hopping for more than an hour, but the colours make me forget myself; tangerine- and mint-splattered granite outcrops meet glass-like waters that reflect shades of blue, as black-pied oystercatchers pace the shore.
A closer look at the restaurants and bars onboard Norwegian Dawn
We embarked on a deep dive of Norwegian Dawn as NCL returned to African waters in 2024 for its second and longest season. Norwegian Dawn offers passengers culinary gems that range from the contemporary to the classic. Yes, the beauty of having seven complimentary dining options onboard and a range of specialty eateries means that many of the world's most celebrated cuisines are represented.
A closer look at the rooms and suites onboard Norwegian Dawn
Norwegian Dawn is designed to introduce first-time cruisers to the joys of cruising with a plethora of options to suit everyone onboard. NCL's Norwegian Dawn is a mid-sized ship aimed at a diverse range of passengers who appreciate its relaxed vibe. The ship embraces the Freestyle Cruising concept, which is aimed at those passengers who can't be pigeonholed, and who appreciate a wide range of wining and dining options, shore excursions and entertainment.
Cruising Africa onboard NCL's Norwegian Dawn
From spotting lions in Mossel Bay to playing a live quiz show or getting a massage in the Mandara Spa, time stretches luxuriantly between ship and shore onboard Norwegian Dawn. Cruising around Africa on Norwegian Dawn is like dividing your time between two worlds. One minute, we're following heavy footprints left in the grass that lead us to a herd of elephants rolling around in a pool of wet mud.
What to expect of a stay at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, WA
The true reward of a stay at Sal Salis is a reintroduction to the wonder of nature; leave your phone at home, forget about deadlines and prepare to dive in. Conservation has been at the heart of Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, since its inception. Travellers come here to swim with whale sharks, hike the ancient ranges of Cape Range National Park and fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the fringing reef.
This 7-day Alaska cruise is the ultimate luxury getaway
Misty fjords, tidewater glaciers and isolated port cities; sailing the Inside Passage is a journey of monumental proportions. I am camped on the bow of MS Koningsdam anticipating the thunderous crack of a tidewater glacier calving as we cut a path through the icy-cold waters of Glacier Bay National Park. Two park rangers boarded our Holland America Alaska cruise in the early hours of the morning, and now commandeer the ship's speakers.
A guide to the Icon of the Seas neighbourhoods
The world's biggest cruise ship is a floating city and like any city, has a number of different neighbourhoods to suit all guests and needs. Quentin Long reveals the many hues and moods of Icon of the Seas' precincts. As much thought and design has gone into the actual engineering marvels of Icon of the Seas (of which there are many) as into the guest experience. Beyond just experiences, the team had to think about people's movements through the day and from experience to experience.
Icon of the Seas staterooms and suites
In line with its ambition to be the best family holiday in the world, the world's largest cruise ship Icon of the Seas has overhauled its stateroom profile adding 14 new types of rooms. Here is our overview of the rooms and the ones that really are new and noteworthy. With more than 28 stateroom types, 14 of which are new, there are endless amounts of words that could be written about the rooms and suites on Icon of the Seas.
Great Walks Of Australia Adds Flinders Island To Best Hikes
Great Walks of Australia has revealed the thirteenth walk in its exclusive collection. For the first time in seven years, Great Walks of Australia has added a new hike to the collection of Australia’s best multi-day hikes – making Flinders Island Walking Island Adventure in Comfort, operated by Tasmanian Expeditions, the thirteenth walk awarded the honour.
the South Korean island you need to know about
Shaped by goddesses and gods, Jeju Island sits at the southern tip of South Korea - a jagged unpolished jewel waiting for wanderers to explore its craggy shores and connect with its charming people. Think of how long you'd like to stay on South Korea's getaway gem - then double it. Healing forests, temple stays, hiking trails, and Korean cuisine will have you wishing you'd booked longer as the eye of 1950-metre-high Mt Hallasan (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) pulls you into its sights.
An Off-Grid Stay at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef
An off-grid stay in the sand dunes of Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef places Katie Carlin in tune with nature to rewire from everyday life. The soft glow of first light streams through the shaded mesh covering of my nature en suite. A palm-sized shell from the nearby beach adorns the ledge and a cool ocean breeze rushes through the gap in my tent, collecting strands of my hair as I splash water on my face to start the day.
Hotel Review: Cape York Peninsula Lodge
There is an abundance of enriching life experiences to be had at the northernmost point of Australia, starting with the community-owned Cape York Peninsula Lodge – part of an enterprise that proves travel can be used as a force for good. With over 1000 kilometres between you and the closest town, Cape York Peninsula Lodge is as remote as it gets: wild brumbies graze on median strips, shy dugongs pop out at unexpected moments and giant crocs guard river crossings.
Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
Icon of the Seas, the newest ship from Royal Caribbean, is set to launch in the new year, offering innovative facilities and entertainment, seven pools, more than 40 ways to drink and dine, lots of new venues, and following a wide range of sustainable practices. Icon of the Seas at a glance Launch date January 2024 Capacity Icon of the Seas has a double occupancy capacity of 5,610 passengers, but if every possible bed was booked, the ship can accommodate 7,600 guests.
Immerse yourself in tranquillity at Bali's iconic COMO Shambhala Estate
A sprawling private estate in Ubud reigns supreme when it comes to wellness. Meet the five-star COMO resort in Bali delivering health reboots that last longer than a tan. It's hard to believe this sprawling, nature-ensconced retreat is just a 20-minute drive from the chaotic pace of Ubud town (and its sister property, the hilltop haven of COMO Uma Ubud).
Where To Eat, Stay & Play In Wagga Wagga
It may be known as the land of many crows, but Wagga Wagga and surrounds are fast evolving into the land of boutique stays, quality coffee, gourmet restaurants, fine wines and rich cultural experiences. Planted alongside the Murrumbidgee River near the Great Dividing Range in New South Wales’ Riverina region is Wagga Wagga. Translated as ‘the land of many crows’ from the Wiradjuri Aboriginal language, the inland city is emerging as one of the state’s most idyllic weekend escapes.
Show-stopping itineraries for NCL's Asia Cruises revealed after 3-year hiatus
Norwegian Cruise Line's six-month season will see new departure ports, visits to 11 countries and a cherry blossom voyage in Japan. For the first time since 2020, Norwegian Cruise Line is set to sail in Asia this year, bursting back into the region with 16 voyages departing from nine convenient homeports.
Our Team Of Travel Writers
For more of the best in travel sign up to our newsletter!
How To Get From Adelaide To Barossa Valley
Whether you’re cruising down a scenic route, hitching a bus ride, soaring through the skies, or using your mightiest pedal power, the journey from Adelaide to the Barossa Valley is worth every effort Situated just over 75 kilometres north-east of Adelaide Airport, the magnificent Barossa Valley is bursting with some of the world’s best wineries, cellar doors and foodie experiences. And the good news is there are several ways to make the trip up there.
Show More
loading
Actions
Get in touch with Katie
Contact Katie, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack