Posted 29 Jul 2010

Those taking gap years in Australia can enjoy true luxury during their time in the country, according to the brand manager at Austravel.

Ben Briggs acknowledged that extravagance is not always a characteristic people associate with Australia, which is often seen as an experiential destination.

But he insisted that that luxury on offer in the country comes from its "stunning locations", its "silence" and its "space", rather than "gold taps and valet parking".

And he claimed that western Australia in particular has this in abundance, describing the area as "Australia‘s best-kept secret".

"I would definitely recommend hiring a campervan and driving along the west coast," Mr Briggs remarked.

"You can drive for hours not seeing another car – it’s magical."

Other places of potential interest for gap year travellers include the Ningaloo Reef, which is Australia’s largest fringing coral reef, and Kimberley in the north-west, which Mr Briggs claimed is one of the last great wilderness areas.

Category: Australasia