PARADISE ON EARTH

“As one of the world heritage sites,
its breathtaking beauty can awaken all senses.”

In most people’s minds, Christmas should be a romantic scene of winter festive season accompanied with white snow and warmth. However, Christmas in Australia occurs during the sultry heat of summer in the southern hemisphere, where the atmosphere is totally different and unique. In the recently-published “Best in Travel 2020”, published by the authoritative international travel guide “Lonely Planet”, Lord Howe Island in New South Wales, Australia has been selected as one of the top five must-visit destinations in the world. The book praises the island in an uninhabited area with stunning visual effects. As one of the world heritage sites, its breathtaking beauty can awaken all senses. For this Christmas, you may want to head to Australia to experience a sizzling hot Christmas.

Lord Howe Island in New South Wales, Australia is only 11 kilometers long and three kilometers wide at its widest point. Adjacent to the world’s southernmost coral reef, the island has spectacular twin peaks and tranquil forest trails. No wonder it was selected by the United Nations Educational Science and Culture Organisation to join the World Heritage List. This crescent-shaped isle is definitely a paradise on earth with comfortable weather all year round. The island only allows 400 travelers to visit at any given time, thus making it a very private holiday resort. Stuart Ayres, Minister of Jobs, New South Wales, said Lord Howe Island is unique since it has picturesque natural landscape and is solitary. It is a must-see for luxury travelers and nature lovers.

**Known by the locals as Blinky’s, the beach with fine sand is the best surfing spot on the island.**

Lord Howe Island offers assorted activities, and its world-class hiking and mountaineering is highly recommended. A day trip to the 875-metre Mountain Gower is considered as one of the best mountaineering experiences in the world. The hiking trail is divided into five levels, and a return trip will take eight hours. The whole tour is led by a tour guide, and visitors can see rare plants along the trail and the stunning views. It is a true experience at the world’s summit.

For senior hikers who love to challenge themselves, they can take part in the pine forest’s seven-peak guided walk to explore the island, where they can enjoy the pristine beaches and corals, and cross the subtropical palm forest, freshwater streams, rugged seaside cliffs and volcanic hilltops—all the way to Mountain Gower where the forest is enveloped by mist.

**Lord Howe Island has more than 60 dive sites to attract all levels of divers.**

Lord Howe Island is Australia’s premier bird watching hotspot. About 14 species of seabirds breed on the island, and it is home to more than 130 species of resident and migratory birds. The island is also known for its exclusive Mori chicken. During winter time, providence petrels also gather in the air.

For travellers who like water sports, they can choose to dive, fish or surf. Located at the confluence of tropical and cold waters, Lord Howe Island is home to the world’s southernmost coral reef, with 90 species of corals, green turtles and toads, and 500 species of fish. The island boasts more than 60 diving spots and is ideal for diving or snorkeling. You can also take a glass bottomed boat to experience the wonder of the underwater world. Fishing on the island is also a rewarding experience, where you are likely to catch big fish, such as yellowfin tuna, sand locust and marlin. Known as the “Blinky’s” by the locals, the island’s beach with fine white sand is well preserved and never over- crowded, making it the best surfing spot.

**Visitors can rent a bicycle to explore the green forest and the island leisurely.**

For accommodation, Lord Howe Island offers five-star Arajilla Retreat and Capella Lodge. If you are interested in the ultimate rainforest experience, you can choose to stay in the Arajilla Suite and stay on the private deck to enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding rainforest.

For those who love a luxury lifestyle, Capella Hotel’s Lidgbird Pavilion is the perfect choice. With a state-of-the-art all-inclusive duplex apartment offering a sweeping view of the ocean, mountain and subtropical rainforest and a ground floor that blends in with the private outdoor recreation area and private plunge pool, it is the answer to the ultimate luxury experience. The hotel’s Capella Spa offers a three-hour Dreaming care treatment, so that you can relax after a day of fun.