9 Countries In Style

Australia had been at the top of my travel list for years, so when my brother Sam told me he’d be studying abroad in Newcastle for a semester, I immediately knew this was my chance to finally go. Getting to visit a new country while also spending time with him made the trip feel even more special.

During my time in Australia, I stayed in Newcastle for five nights while my brother was in class during the week, and then we headed to Sydney for a long weekend. I’ll share more about Sydney in another post, but I wanted to start with Newcastle because this charming coastal town deserves way more attention than it gets from travelers.

ACCOMODATIONS

During my time in Newcastle, I stayed at two different hotels—both in a super convenient area, but with completely different vibes. One leaned more toward a relaxed vacation-style stay, while the other felt tailor-made for business travel with a luxury twist. Honestly, it was the perfect way to experience two sides of the city.

The first hotel I stayed at was the Rydges Newcastle (https://expedia.com/affiliate/GgAdvW9) for two nights. This hotel was clean, centrally located, and had an easy, laid-back atmosphere that immediately made it feel comfortable. The rooms were surprisingly spacious and featured a kitchenette complete with a refrigerator, kitchen island, and dining table.

One thing I really appreciated was the separate bedroom and living area divided by a sliding door—something that’s actually pretty rare in this area where many hotel rooms tend to be smaller and more compact. While I wouldn’t necessarily describe the hotel as luxurious, it’s an excellent option for families, friend groups, or anyone traveling with more than two people who wants a little extra breathing room. Sometimes functionality wins, and this hotel definitely delivered on that.

One of the highlights was the small waterfront pool featuring a giant waterslide, which gave the property a fun, vacation-like energy. Downstairs, the lobby bar had outdoor seating right along the water, making it an ideal spot for an evening drink or slow morning coffee. What stood out most, though, was the staff. Everyone was incredibly kind and accommodating—they even granted me a late checkout when I was juggling hotels before heading to Sydney for the weekend, which made the transition so much smoother.

My second stay was at the Little National Hotel Newcastle (https://expedia.com/affiliate/rt8vMx1), and this one instantly won me over. If the Rydges felt relaxed and practical, Little National felt elevated, modern, and effortlessly cool. The entire property had a sleek, updated design that somehow managed to feel both luxurious and inviting at the same time.

I stayed in the Little National Room, which leaned heavily into smart design and technology. Everything—from the blinds and window shades to the lighting—was automated, giving the room a subtle futuristic feel. The bathroom was spotless and modern, complete with a sliding door for privacy.

That said, the room itself was definitely compact. The living space was minimal, with only a small table and chairs, while the bed sat directly against the window. As a solo traveler, I absolutely loved it. The setup felt cozy, efficient, and intentional. But if you’re traveling with another person or planning a longer stay, I’d definitely recommend upgrading to “The Apartment,” which includes a separate living area and pullout couch for extra space.

Little details throughout the stay made a big impression on me. Every room included a Nespresso machine along with multiple milk options stocked in the fridge—a small touch, but one that made mornings feel a little more elevated. The gym was also incredibly impressive, featuring Technogym equipment and floor-to-ceiling windows that made working out feel far less painful than usual. The property also had a beautiful library/lounge space perfect for working remotely, reading, or simply unwinding. And the upstairs bar? Chic, upscale, and the kind of place that makes you want to order a cocktail just for the ambiance.

While I genuinely enjoyed both stays, the Little National Hotel Newcastle ended up being my favorite. For me, travel has always been less about the destination itself and more about how a place makes you feel—and Little National created the kind of atmosphere that makes you instantly settle in. Stylish, calming, convenient, and thoughtfully designed, it’s the type of stay that quietly becomes one of the highlights of the trip itself.

RESTAURANTS

• The Beach Hotel (overlooking the water, great spot to end your memorial walk)
• Casa Nova Italian

• Shoal Bay Country Club (Great view of the water & delicious food for after your Tomaree Head Summit Walk in Nelson Bay)!

ACTIVITIES

Newcastle Memorial Walk

On All Trails this is listed as an easy 0.9 mile walk with 131 ft elevation gain. It is a beautiful coastal walk and you can easily continue for much longer than a mile after the historial memorial trail ends!

Newcastle Beach & Bar Beach

Viet Spa & Lash House

One rainy afternoon in Newcastle, I decided a spa treatment was exactly what the day called for — and somehow I stumbled upon the cutest little day spa. I booked the Blissful Retreat Package, which included a 15-minute neck, head & shoulder massage, a 60-minute head spa, mini facial, and hair dry.

The entire experience lasted about 90 minutes and cost AUD 190 (around $135 USD), which honestly felt so worth it for the level of relaxation and care. The staff were incredibly kind and accommodating, and the whole experience felt cozy, calming, and luxurious without being over the top.

I would absolutely recommend it if you’re visiting Newcastle — especially on a rainy day. One tip though: take the bus or a quick ride from your hotel. I walked from the Little National Hotel, and while it’s technically only about a mile away, it’s not exactly the most scenic or relaxing walk… especially in the rain before a spa appointment.

The Bogey Hole!

Highly recommend stopping here for a swim or bringing a book and just listening to the waves in the morning.

Day Trip to Anna Bay (1 hour bus ride)

Sand Dunes

Camel Rides at Birubi Beach

I took the bus from Newcastle Interchange to Anna Bay using the Opal Travel app (this is a must for travel in australia)! I got off at Gan Gan Rd & James Paterson Bus Stop; however, I had to walk through the sand to find the camels for at least a half mile, instead of walking through the sand – just walk straight down James Paterson St to the Birubi Point Lookout. It will be about a 10 minute walk for 0.6 miles and mostly flat.

Near Birubi Beach they have 4 wheelers, camel rides, sand surfing (https://www.viator.com/tours/Port-Stephens/Unlimited-Sandboarding/d23018-70465P2?pid=P00300370&mcid=42383&medium=link), etc.

You don’t need to book this ahead. You can just show up to the lookout point and you will see various vans selling these experiences! I believe the camel ride was between $30-40 per person.

Day Trip to Nelson Bay (1.5 hour bus ride)

Tomaree Head Summit Walk

On All Trails this walk shows 1.3 miles in length (one way), 413 ft elevation gain, and is labeled as moderate. This hike is very doable for all levels of hiking as long as you can take your time!

Zenith Beach

This beach is very close to the hike mentioned above, so it is a great option to swim right after to cool off!

COFFEE / PASTRIES

• Monte
• The Grumpy Baker* (cutest pastries)

• The Beehive Honeysuckle
• Smiling Monk Coffee (best coffee!!)
• Southy Canteen

• One Picket Fence

I traveled to Australia during the first week of February, and honestly, it felt like the perfect time to go. The weather was beautiful (although… when is it not?), and it was right as kids in Australia were heading back to school after summer break.

Everything felt calm and uncrowded — flights there and back weren’t full, popular spots never felt overwhelming, and it was easy to explore at a relaxed pace. I was able to do everything I wanted while visiting my brother in his temporary home.

If you’re thinking about visiting Australia, early February is such an underrated sweet spot: warm weather, fewer crowds, and that laid-back end-of-summer energy everywhere.

travel safe, sarah ❤