Simone Mitchell
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Associate Digital Editor, Escape. Seriously dedicated to eating (once fainted in a Tokyo street after ingesting a Takoyaki ball that was too hot - true story).
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Articles by Simone Mitchell
20 glorious Aussie beach towns to visit this spring
Aftermarket 8 seconds ago Pic: Getty Images Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. Escape may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Whether you’re chasing wildflower blooms in the west, whale migrations in the east, or just a quiet stretch of sand to lay your towel, it’s time to pack the car.
When does daylight savings start in Australia in 2026?
If you are already dreaming of long, balmy evenings, alfresco dinners, and after-work ocean dips, you are probably wondering when we finally get that extra hour of evening sunlight. There are a few universal signs that the Australian summer is officially on our doorstep: the very real danger of being swooped by a magpie, the sudden urge to book a coastal weekender, and, of course, the return of daylight saving time.
Qantas revives wildly popular Double Points and Status offer
This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. They may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au. National carrier Qantas is offering its 19 million frequent flyer members the choice to earn either double Qantas Points or double Status Credits on eligible bookings. The promotion, which launches today, will run for an eight-day booking window.
Aussie travellers warned about potentially deadly tick-borne virus
Australian travellers are being urged to exercise caution outdoors in this region following the confirmation of a rare and potentially fatal tick-borne virus. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Tonight's Perseid meteor shower will be a 'cosmic masterpiece'
The Perseid meteor shower - widely considered the undisputed queen of astronomical light shows - is reaching its peak right now. Across the globe, stargazers are turning their eyes to the sky to watch up to 100 meteors an hour streak across the atmosphere. For us down under in Australia, catching the Perseids has historically been a bit of a cosmic game of hide-and-seek. It’s famously a Northern Hemisphere event, but that doesn't mean we have to miss out on the magic.
New bucket-list tour deals Aussies will want to book now
This new brand has been created for travellers who want the ease of an all-in-one guided holiday without the usual surprises after landing. And there are some bargains to be found. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Australians love a holiday where the hard work has already been done, and that’s the pitch behind newly launched brand My Touring.
The real reason tray tables must be stowed for landing
And why it matters more than most passengers realise. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Passengers hear the same instructions on nearly every flight: tray table up, seat upright, window shade open, phone on airplane mode. Most people follow these instructions automatically, but few stop to think about why those rules exist in the first place.
You can now earn Qantas Points at Bunnings - but there’s a catch
Now there's a new reason to shop at Bunnings (besides the sausage sizzle). This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Bunnings has launched a new loyalty program that gives eligible customers the chance to earn Qantas Points, score fuel discounts and unlock extra perks through their spending.
I got nude with 3000 strangers, and I liked it
Nothing wakes you up quite like the piercing slap of 12 degree water on your bare butt cheeks. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Nothing wakes you up quite like the piercing slap of 12 degree water on your bare butt cheeks.
New ultra-luxury lodge planned for Uluru
With views of Uluru and a plunge pool from every suite. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Luxury travel operator Beckons is planning a new ultra-luxury lodge near Uluru. The intimate new property will have just nine suites, each with a private plunge pool and views of Australia’s most iconic monolith.
The ultimate winter travel deal: Ski in Japan, then soak up sun in Fiji for under $900
Ditch the post-holiday blues with this genius hack that lets you ski Japan or Canada, then thaw out in a tropical paradise (all for a bargain price). This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Can’t decide between hitting the slopes or lounging on a tropical beach with a cocktail in hand? You no longer have to choose.
Sydney Airport's famous lost property sale is back, and bargains start at $10
From laptops and luxury jewellery to a wedding dress and Batman Lego, thousands of forgotten airport treasures are heading under the hammer. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. If you've ever wondered what happens to the sunglasses, headphones or handbags travellers accidentally leave behind at the airport, here's your answer.
Pack your bags: The great travel bounce-back has begun
This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. They may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au. For months, Australians dreaming of a European summer found themselves caught in an unexpected travel dilemma.
Pack your bags: The great travel bounce-back has begun
Travel operators are reporting a near-immediate surge in demand, following the easing of travel advice in the Middle East. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. For months, Australians dreaming of a European summer found themselves caught in an unexpected travel dilemma.
$115 reason people are flocking to this coastal town 90 mins from Melbourne
This fabulously down-to-earth fishing village is tailor-made for a winter escape. And now there's a delicious new reason to visit. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. With its grand Victorian buildings, working fishing harbour and windswept coastline, Queenscliff (on Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula) is the kind of place that feels tailor-made for a winter escape.
Winner of Queensland's top tourism town is a cool-climate escape made for winter
For anyone who has spent a winter weekend in the Granite Belt, this honour will come as little surprise. It's one of Queensland's best-kept secrets. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Stanthorpe has officially been crowned Queensland’s Top Tourism Town for 2026.
Sydney could soon get futuristic ‘flying’ ferries on the harbour
Sydney commuters could soon be zipping across the harbour aboard futuristic electric hydrofoiling ferries that appear to “fly” above the water. And there are expansion plans for Perth and Hobart too. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Sydney commuters could soon be swapping packed trains and traffic jams for futuristic ferries that appear to “fly” above the water.
Aussies heading to Thailand warned over strict new Ebola entry rules
Thailand has introduced new health screening and quarantine measures amid concerns over a growing Ebola outbreak, prompting an update to Australia’s official travel advice for the popular holiday destination. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Aussies are about to lose millions in unused COVID flight credits – here’s how to check yours
This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. They may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au If you cancelled flights during the pandemic and accepted a travel credit instead of a refund, there’s a chance you could still have money sitting unused with an airline. And for some travellers, the clock is ticking.
Aussies are about to lose millions in unused COVID flight credits - here’s how to check yours
You have until June 30, or you could lose big bucks. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. If you cancelled flights during the pandemic and accepted a travel credit instead of a refund, there’s a chance you could still have money sitting unused with an airline. And for some travellers, the clock is ticking.
Five-star airline STARLUX is finally coming to Australia
Australian travellers are about to get a chic new way to fly to Asia and beyond. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Australian travellers are about to get a glamorous new way to fly to Asia and beyond, with Taiwanese luxury carrier STARLUX Airlines preparing to launch flights between Sydney and Taipei.
ALDI Holidays launches massive cruise sale with Japan, Greece and Caribbean trips
Australians know ALDI for its bargain Special Buys and middle aisle treasures, but the supermarket giant is now making a serious play for travellers too - and this month it’s putting cruises firmly in the spotlight. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Aussies can now fly to Europe for $510, thanks to Vietjet's new route
For Australians dreaming of a cheaper Europe trip - with a Vietnam stopover thrown in - this new route could be one of the more interesting airline launches of the year. Australians heading to Europe will soon have a new low-cost way to get there, with Vietjet announcing its first-ever European service between Hanoi and Prague.
Exclusive first look: Sydney Airport to score seriously chic new dining precinct
Sydney Airport is giving domestic travellers a new reason to get to the terminal early, unveiling a major new dining precinct at T2 that will bring together some of Australia’s best-known hospitality brands under one roof. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
GoldenPass Express train: 'World’s most beautiful train ride' is one of Europe's biggest bargains
This stunning train ride might be the best-value luxury experience in Europe, costing less than a flight from Sydney to Melbourne. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Within 20 minutes of leaving Montreux, I understood why some travellers call the GoldenPass Express one of the world's most beautiful train journeys.
La Dolce Vita: New Orient Express train journey from Rome to Istanbul is one to add to your bucket list
This new itinerary promises to be the most decadent journey across Europe yet. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. There is perhaps no mode of transport quite as romanticised as the sleeper train, and no name more synonymous with railway royalty than the Orient Express. For over a century, it has captured the imaginations of intrepid wanderers and luxury seekers alike.
Southern Tasmania named among the world’s hottest food destinations for 2026 by National Geographic
The recognition places this Aussie state alongside a diverse lineup of international culinary destinations, including Crete in Greece, Lucknow in India, Kelowna in Canada and the Turkish island of Bozcaada. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Zinc Airlines: New ultra-low-cost carrier could be launching from Western Sydney Airport
A new ultra-low-cost airline, inspired by European budget giant Ryanair, could be headed down under. An alternative to Jetstar? Yes, please. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
InterContinental gets green light for luxury resort and spa in the Barossa
Australia’s most famous wine region is set to welcome its first globally branded luxury hotel. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Australia’s most famous wine region is set to welcome its first globally branded luxury hotel, with plans unveiled for a new InterContinental resort in South Australia’s Barossa Valley.
Etihad launches huge economy flight sale, with Europe flights from $1033
The new international flight sale is offering Australians up to 30 per cent off Economy fares to dozens of destinations across Europe and Africa. But you'll need to be quick. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Australians looking to lock in a 2026 overseas holiday may want to move quickly, with Etihad's economy flight sale ending May 14.
Paire CoolBlend set: The 'perfect' travel outfit editors give 10/10
I road-tested a new set from Aussie label Paire on a marathon flight to Europe, and it delivered on comfort, warmth and effortless style from take-off to arrival. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. As a travel editor, I've been on the hunt for the perfect travel outfit for a while now. Something comfortable but chic, that I'll also wear when I arrive at my destination.
Make sure you catch the stunning Eta Aquarids meteor shower this week
As one of the most reliable and visually spectacular events on the celestial calendar for Australians, this week's meteor shower is a breathtaking display of cosmic fireworks. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Review: Dorsett Melbourne is one of the best-value hotels in the city
A stylish, family-friendly CBD stay with smart tech touches, cosy rooms and all the wellness perks you need after a day exploring Melbourne’s laneways. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. I checked into Dorsett Melbourne and immediately appreciated just how well positioned it is.
How the RBA's latest move could cost you points, and hike travel costs
In a double-whammy for consumers, the RBA is not only making it harder to earn frequent flyer points, but has also effectively guaranteed a base price hike for flights and hotels, according to industry experts. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Australians love maximising credit card reward points to fund their holidays.
Etihad, Emirates and Qatar flight sales: Should you book those super cheap Europe flights right now?
Middle East-based carriers are using super low airfares to win back travellers following major disruptions. But this travel expert urges caution. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Over the last few weeks, a very tempting anomaly has appeared on flight booking radars: ultra-cheap fares to Europe - even in what is traditionally "high" season.
Eight destinations travel experts recommend right now
This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. They may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au. Having your highly anticipated travel plans thrown into chaos is incredibly frustrating, especially when you have been counting down the days to a mid-winter getaway.
The Settle-Carlisle line: 'Britain’s most beautiful rail journey' is going on sale for just $3
A train ride through some of the most spectacular countryside in the UK – for less than the price of a flat white. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. For a limited time, travellers can snap up tickets on England’s legendary Settle–Carlisle railway for as little as £1.50 (around $3 AUD), thanks to a special anniversary sale marking 150 years of the line.
United Airlines just answered our long-haul prayers with the 'Relax Row'
For those of us staring down a 14-hour flight to Los Angeles or San Francisco, this new offering in economy is deeply thrilling. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. For Aussie travellers, flying economy across the Pacific can often feel like a true test of physical endurance.
‘Short-sighted’: Frequent flyers react to new Qantas lounge restrictions
Qantas has announced upcoming policy changes that will restrict access to its lounges - particularly for Jetstar passengers. And not everyone's happy about it. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Qantas has announced upcoming policy changes that will restrict access to its lounges.
Some airlines are quietly rolling out fuel surcharges this week
Australians planning their next overseas escape or a domestic getaway are facing a harsh new reality when it comes to pricing, thanks to the conflict in the Middle East. A sudden and severe spike in global oil prices – triggered by escalating conflict in the Middle East – is forcing airlines to inflate airfares and, in some cases, introduce fuel surcharges.
Guide to USA's Global Entry for Australian citizens to fast track customs
To make sure you are ready to apply the second the portals reopen, here is everything you need to know about how the program works, what it costs, and whether it is actually worth the hype. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. If you have been eagerly waiting to apply for the US Global Entry program, you will need to pack a little extra patience right now.
Anytime Fitness opens Australia's first airport gym at Sydney Airport's international terminal
In a first for the nation, Anytime Fitness is opening an airport gym at Sydney's International Terminal, bringing 24/7 training to Australia’s busiest transit hub. For many travellers, the pre-flight routine involves a quick dash through duty-free or a long, sedentary wait in a departure lounge. Potentially with a pit-stop at Macca's. But starting March 11, 2026, passengers at Sydney Airport will have a decidedly healthier option.
Double points or status? Qantas’ most anticipated frequent flyer offer just dropped
The return of Qantas’s “Twice as Rewarding” promotion - the one savvy travellers wait all year for - has landed overnight. But it's only here for a limited time. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Frequent flyers know there are deals - and then there’s this deal.
Carry-on baggage mistake that delays your plane exit
According to travel experts, one small decision you make when boarding could make the wait to disembark at the end of your flight even longer. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. There’s a tedious moment at the end of almost every flight when the seatbelt sign is switched off, everyone stands up at once, and the slow shuffle to exit begins.
'Chilled and unpretentious': I discovered an Aussie winery region everyone's missing
As someone who thought she knew every corner of her hometown, discovering this winery region over a weekend with pals felt like finding $50 down the back of the couch. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. I grew up in Geelong. But somehow, in all those years, I completely overlooked one of the region’s hidden gems. The Moorabool Valley.
Royal Caribbean bans the use of smart glasses on certain area of its ships
Royal Caribbean quietly updated its prohibited items guidance this week, stating that this controversial item is no longer permitted in specific onboard zones. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Royal Caribbean has restricted smart glasses in several onboard areas, becoming the second major cruise line to act after MSC Cruises.
Baz Luhrmann and Catherine Martin are designing a luxury Belmond train carriage and it’s pure theatre on rails
It's less a train carriage, and more a cinematic world on wheels. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. Luxury train travel has always been about more than getting from A to B. It is about the slow unfurling of a journey, and the clink of fine glassware.
Scoot launches week-long Asia flight sale with one-way fares from $140
Australian travellers chasing a well-priced escape to Asia might want to move quickly, with Scoot launching a week-long sale offering one-way fares from as low as $140. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
Destinations where the Aussie dollar is going further
Words by Simone Mitchell for Escape.com.au This article may contain links from Escape’s affiliate and advertising partners. Escape may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content. It’s rare to see a travel season where your dollar feels this strong overseas. But as of early 2026 the Australian dollar is performing better than it has in years against many global currencies – including the South African rand and some Southeast Asian rates.
Australia’s iconic Emirates Wolgan Valley resort is reopening as the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge
The super luxe wilderness retreat is preparing for a dramatic return - and it comes with a world-first twist. This article may contain links from our affiliate and advertising partners. We may receive payments when you click on links, buy through them or share this content.
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