TravelStories Episode 52: A Trip Down Under

Episode 52: Show Notes

We’ve taken many trips to Australia, but our most recent one was certainly one to remember! In today’s episode, Trevor walks us through his most recent visit down under, and he begins with his domestic flights leaving the USA before detailing his international flight path. We unpack an awkward midair encounter from New Zealand to Australia, why Trevor was pleasantly surprised with his American Airlines flight home, how he and his family maximized their time in Qantas Business and other airport lounges, and the hotels he chose in Australasia. We also learn about the world’s biggest LEGO store, the Taronga Zoo, an unforgettable cookie, and Paddy’s Markets. To end, Trevor shares his final thoughts on Australia and the wonders of being able to walk across one of the world’s major cities.  

Key Points From This Episode:

• [0:00:00] Unpacking Trevor’s most recent trip to Australia.
• [0:04:00] The flights he took from USA to Australia, both domestic and international.
• [0:09:20] His awkward trans-Tasman encounter and pleasant American Airlines flight home.
• [0:24:32] Trevor’s  lounge experiences throughout the trip including some bucket list ones.
• [0:30:57] The Park Hyatt in Auckland, and InterContinental and Hyatt Regency in Sydney.
• [0:42:39] Exploring the largest LEGO store in the world and other food and entertainment.
• [0:44:52] Local transport options, world-famous treats, and a memorable zoo. 
• [0:54:40] The Sydney Opera House, Paddy’s Markets, and the joys of a pedestrian city.
• [1:05:10] Final thoughts on a great trip to Australia. 

Quotes:

“You know what? I might just make the stretch to Executive Platinum [on AAdvantage]. It’s going to come down to the wire.” — @tmount [22:08]

“Qantas does earn a little high praise from me for their à la carte dining in general.” — @TktweetsKim [28:30]

“Three of four people responded to me saying, ‘Why on Earth are you trying to get coffee at a hotel in Australia? There’s so much great coffee, just go up the street.” — @tmount [41:50]

“We walked almost everywhere [in Sydney].” — @TktweetsKim [01:04:07]

“Going back to Sydney felt so good because it felt so familiar.” — @tmount [01:05:21]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

American Airlines  

Etihad Airways 

Emirates 

LATAM Airlines 

American Express 

China Eastern Airlines 

Delta 

AAdvantage Executive Platinum 

Qantas | Airport Lounges 

The Centurion Lounge 

Lufthansa 

The Chelsea Lounge 

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