Where life’s a beach: Sara Tendulkar reveals why she loves travelling to Australia

For Sara Tendulkar Australia transcends a travel destination Itrsquos a place layered with nostalgia and discovery Her connection with the country dates back to her childhood when she would accompany her brother Arjun to watch their father play cricket ldquoEvery time I visit forgotten memories suddenly come aliverdquo she says ldquoAustralia feels like a place that gives me exactly what I need at that point in my life whether itrsquos peace fun or inspirationrdquoSara Tendulkar PicAshish RajeNow having travelled across the country multiple times thanks to Tourism Australia of which she is brand ambassador shersquos full of insider picks for young travellers where to eat chill explore and save or not From free beaches buzzing laneways Japanese fine dining to worldclass coffee culture Sararsquos picks are equal parts warm artsy adventurous and surprisingly affordableHappiness in the wavesldquoTherersquos just too much nature in Australia to ignorerdquo says Sara Tendulkar on how one can have a complete outdoorsy time in the countryldquoBeaches are a big part of the experiencerdquo Sara says Apart from relaxing on the sand she also loves surfing It is worth trying even if you just rent a board and learn the basics ldquoI am huge on surfing All you need is a surfboardrdquo From her many hikes and treks trails like the Great Ocean Road or the Story Bridge climb offered stunning views without breaking the bank ldquoTherersquos just too much nature in Australia to ignorerdquoBuzzing with beansAustralia has a buzzing nightlife scene and cafeacute culture Melbournersquos laneways filled with graffiti small bars and hidden cafeacutes are her goto ldquoTheyrsquore fun lively and not expensiverdquo she says The countryrsquos reputation for amazing coffee means that even a casual night out at a cafeacute feels specialHer bucket listSara at the Tamborine rainforest skywalk in AustraliaBetween surfboards and skyscrapers Sara finds inspiration in Australiarsquos creative energy She is eager to dive deeper into the Indigenous culture of Aboriginal andor Torres Strait Islander origin ldquoTherersquos so much history and culture I havenrsquot explored yet and thatrsquos something I really want to dordquoHopping onto the culinary expressSararsquos food favourites are anchored by three mustvisits starting with Kisumeacute at 175 Flinders Lane in Melbourne ldquoI love Japanese food and this place is my favouriterdquo With three levels of dining experience and a gorgeously designed Chablis Bar this is the place for Australian fine wine and dining Her next place is Lune Croissanterie Located in Spaces in Melbourne the bakerycumcafeacute is famous for inventive croissants and pastries ldquoI had their vegemite croissant and I have never tasted anything like itrdquo Sararsquos eyes twinkled at the recollection And thirdly she says ldquoAny Australian cafeacute The coffee is just the best hererdquoFill your bags without emptying walletsTo balance shopping with her budget Sara explores the local markets at Melbourne laneways ldquoTherersquos a lot of good merchandise and you donrsquot need to compromise on budget or qualityrdquo From quirky streetwear to artisanal souvenirs Australia offers plenty beyond luxury malls ldquoIt can give you whatever yoursquore looking for mdash a budget trip or a luxurious holidayrdquo Her tip blend free outdoor activities like beaches hikes and street art walks with budgetfriendly cafeacutes and markets ldquoThe quality is always high no matter where you gordquoA warm welcome for IndiansBeyond food and cricket what strikes Sara most is the warmth of Australians ldquoTheyrsquore so friendly and hospitable that you feel at home instantly Sometimes more than in other places where people are a bit hostilerdquo She sees a deep cultural similarity between the two countries ldquoThey love their food and their cricket just like usrdquoWant to hear from youWe are looking to visit and write about interesting places of stay and travel near and far If you wish to host us for a fair engaging experience review write to us at smdmailmiddaycom