{"id":4187,"date":"2022-10-22T07:56:15","date_gmt":"2022-10-22T07:56:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/showbizztoday.com\/index.php\/2022\/10\/22\/little-grey-box-travel-awards-2021-winners\/"},"modified":"2022-10-22T07:56:16","modified_gmt":"2022-10-22T07:56:16","slug":"little-grey-box-travel-awards-2021-winners","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/showbizztoday.com\/index.php\/2022\/10\/22\/little-grey-box-travel-awards-2021-winners\/","title":{"rendered":"Little Grey Box Travel Awards 2021 Winners!"},"content":{"rendered":"

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It has been a wierd and unsure yr with journey alternatives few and much between. Still, we discovered ourselves with alternatives to discover our lovely house state, Queensland, and reap the benefits of the New Zealand journey bubble whereas it was open. Honestly, it was a yr that was removed from preferrred and one which offered lots of challenges personally and professionally. But there\u2019s a lot to be pleased about. <\/p>\n

The Little Grey Box Travel Awards<\/a>\u00a0are our method of displaying our immense gratitude and just a little additional love and assist for the great individuals who make the yr\u2019s finest journey moments attainable. We simply wish to say an enormous thanks to each particular person we met and labored with this yr. Without additional ado, listed below are the Little Grey Box Travel Award Winners (and, I suppose, our journey highlights) for 2021!<\/p>\n

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Best Australian Destination<\/h2>\n

Winner: Rainbow Beach, Queensland<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Rainbow Beach has been near each our hearts for a really very long time and, revisiting this yr, we obtained the prospect to get pleasure from it as soon as extra and see how a lot its grown! Boasting lovely seashores, unimaginable 4WD-ing spots and a few implausible new eateries, this seaside spot is equal elements attractive, enjoyable and enjoyable. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Sunshine Coast Hinterland, Queensland<\/a>
Honourable point out: Noosa, Queensland<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Overseas Destination<\/h2>\n

Winner: W\u0101naka, New Zealand<\/a><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s wonderful we have been capable of get abroad this yr and I nonetheless can\u2019t consider how fortunate we’re that Australia and New Zealand are so shut! Of all of the spots we visited on our street journey by means of the north and south islands, W\u0101naka stands out probably the most. It is, with out hesitation, my favorite place in New Zealand. A spot brimming with beautiful surroundings, unimaginable meals, outside adventures and the loveliest locals. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: West Auckland, New Zealand<\/a>
Honourable point out: Mackenzie Region, New Zealand<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Under-the-Radar Destination<\/h2>\n

Winner: West Auckland, New Zealand<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Nothing fairly ready me for the uncooked and staggering great thing about the West Auckland<\/a> shoreline. Having been so journey starved for therefore lengthy, the wild power of Karekare Beach and Piha Beach took my breath away. We had an unforgettable day exploring coastal trails, visiting waterfalls, consuming on the black sand seashores and infrequently seeing one other soul. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Kenilworth, Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Tin Can Bay, Australia<\/a><\/span><\/h4>\n
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Best Luxury Accommodation Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Cross Hill Lodge & Domes, New Zealand<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Our keep in a decadent Cross Hill Geo Dome was a journey dream come true! But it wasn\u2019t simply the distinctive and splendid lodging that made this keep so particular. Set towards spectacular Lake Hawea, it\u2019s the sense of heat and welcome that oozes by means of all the private touches and moments of connection you expertise throughout your keep. This is a spot that may stick with me for a very long time to return! <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Cordis Auckland, New Zealand<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Meriton Surfers Paradise, Australia<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Budget Accommodation Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Highlands Farmstay (Executive Barn), New Zealand<\/a><\/h3>\n

Every every now and then you unearth a gem on Airbnb and, this yr, we discovered probably the most unimaginable spot in Twizel. Set throughout the Dark Sky Reserve this inexpensive lodging spot boasts an epic bathtub good for stargazing in freezing temperatures. Equipped with every little thing you might want for a calming, self-contained keep its additionally house to numerous pleasant cattle, providing loads of enjoyable issues to do throughout your go to. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: The \u2018Old Glenroy Dairy\u2019 (Airbnb), Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Apartment 5 (Airbnb), New Zealand<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Beach Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Piha Beach, New Zealand<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Most years it\u2019s a sun-drenched spot that takes the cake however I couldn\u2019t assist falling in love with wild Piha Beach. On a cool winter day we made our method throughout the sand, rain drizzling on occasion, gazing on the rugged shoreline whereas tucking into heat soup and toasty bread. It was completely totally different to what I normally go to the seashore for and, one way or the other, so soul nourishing! <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Rainbow Beach, Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Kings Beach, Australia<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Food Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Social Eating House + Bar, Australia<\/a><\/h3>\n

We have been grateful to expertise some really great, native meals in 2021 and one we gained\u2019t quickly overlook is Social Eating House + Bar. This understated spot delivers a real meals expertise combining implausible service, nice atmosphere, an thrilling menu, lovely plating and, most significantly, spectacular meals. From begin to end it was pure perfection! We\u2019re so fortunate to have this spot inside driving distance of house. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Edgewater Dining & Lounge, Australia<\/a>
Honourable mentions: Amigos Wanaka<\/span>, New Zealand<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Breakfast Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Bumbles Cafe<\/span>, Australia<\/span><\/a><\/h3>\n

I didn’t anticipate this humble Gold Coast<\/a> cafe to throw down fairly prefer it did, I’ve to be trustworthy! A really cosy neighbourhood spot standard with locals, it served up one of the best espresso I had all yr. The inside looks like a whimsical e-book retailer and the menu boasts an excellent mixture of classics and inventive bites to pattern. I\u2019m obsessed <\/em>with crumpets and was blown away by the scrumptious sourdough crumpets and granola with ultra-wobbly pannacotta! YUM!<\/p>\n

Runner-up: Morning After, Australia<\/a>
Honourable point out: Relishes Cafe, New Zealand<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Restaurant Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Etsu Izakaya, Australia<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

If you possibly can\u2019t inform already, the Gold Coast<\/a> was the hero of our foodie adventures this yr and Etsu Izakaya was a transparent standout. True to the izakaya you\u2019ll discover in Japan, Etsu is completely understated from the skin and you might simply stroll proper previous it. Venture inside and also you\u2019ll discover a lovely restaurant serving up probably the most scrumptious Japanese meals I\u2019ve skilled exterior of Japan. Not to say, the service is impeccable! <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Margo\u2019s Queenstown, New Zealand<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Social Eating House + Bar, Australia<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Cafe Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Nodo, Australia<\/a><\/h3>\n

I dwell <\/em>for breakfast and my favorite cafe of the yr was Brisbane<\/a>\u2019s personal native gem, Nodo. The fit-out of the Hawthorne cafe is simply attractive with a menu that makes it arduous to decide on only one dish. In addition to their scrumptious meals Nodo additionally boasts distinctive espresso and one of the best donuts within the sport. An added bonus \u2013 the whole place is Gluten Free! <\/p>\n

Runner-up: White Picket Fence<\/span>, Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: No Name Lane, Australia<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best Bar\/Drinks Experince<\/h2>\n

Winner: Edgewater Dining and Lounge Bar, Australia<\/a><\/h3>\n

Another Gold Coast<\/a> gem, Edgewater is completely positioned overlooking the glittering waterways round Surfers Paradise<\/a>. The service right here was a standout, reminding me of the sort of service you obtain in a brasserie in Paris. Not solely have been the drinks right here visually beautiful, they have been scrumptious too and completely accompanied by lovely waterfront views. It\u2019s simply the icing on the cake that meals is spectacular as effectively! <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Granddad Jack\u2019s Craft Distillery<\/span>, Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: O.G.B, New Zealand<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Adventure Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Lord of the Rungs Climb (with Wildwire Wanaka), New Zealand<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Every every now and then you get the chance to do one thing you\u2019ve by no means completed earlier than and it awakens one thing in you! For me, it was an unrealised love of climbing all because of Wildwire Wanaka. Hanging off the aspect of a cascading waterfall, soaking in views over Wanaka was completely magical. Getting open air and hands-on with the uncooked great thing about this area is the right solution to expertise it and I can\u2019t wait to return and do that one once more. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Canyon Swing (with Shotover Canyon Swing), New Zealand<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: The Mountain Experience (with The Cardrona), New Zealand<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Unique Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Snug Classic Self Drive (with Duffy Down Under Boat Hire), Australia<\/a><\/h3>\n

Having lived near the Gold Coast most of my life I used to be shocked to understand I\u2019d been lacking out on exploring the waterways! Turns out, it was definitely worth the wait as we obtained the prospect to do it for the primary time in a Duffy boat with Duffy Down Under. Combining consolation, enjoyable and delightful surroundings this expertise is ideal for everybody! We spent few hours placing alongside gently, seeing the world from a brand new perspective and having fun with a waterfront lunch. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: All Blacks Experience, New Zealand<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Mauao (Mount Maunganui) Summit Walk, New Zealand<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Multi-Day Tour Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Jeep & Caravan Self Drive (with Outdoor Aussie Adventures), Australia<\/a><\/h3>\n

This yr we obtained the prospect to expertise one thing we by no means have earlier than \u2013 the caravanning life-style! Setting off with zero expertise, the crew at Outdoor Aussie Adventures taught us every little thing we wanted to know, helped us settled in and hooked us up with the Jeep and the caravan and an unimaginable itinerary. It was so enjoyable travelling in a brand new method and, in case you noticed my Insta-Stories, you\u2019ll know Matt took to it like a duck to water and is formally able to be a gray nomad. <\/p>\n

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Best Day-Tour Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Kai Safari Dinner Tour (with \u0100miki Tours), New Zealand<\/a><\/h3>\n

While visiting Christchurch this yr I needed to attempt to discover experiences to assist me join higher with town and \u0100miki Tours did simply <\/em>that. The Kai (meals) Safari Tour takes you out into the guts of Maori tradition, native historical past and distinctive meals. It\u2019s an opportunity to style and expertise the area in a really highly effective method, expertly led by heat and welcoming locals. If you ever go to Christchurch a tour with \u0100miki is a should. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Cruise \u2018n\u2019 Canoe (with Everglades Eco Safaris), Australia<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Coldie on the Goldie Brewery Tour (with Hop On Brewery Tours), Australia<\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Airport Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Queenstown Airport, New Zealand<\/a><\/h3>\n

We have been solely inside a few airports this yr however Queenstown<\/a> simply takes the cake! Located a brief drive from the guts of Queenstown<\/a> you continue to get to benefit from the surroundings from contained in the terminal. There are nice cafes, a lolly store so you possibly can fill up on fudge and sweets for the journey house and an excellent Japanese restaurant. <\/p>\n

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Best\u00a0Airline Experience<\/h2>\n

Winner: Qantas, Economy Class<\/a><\/h3>\n

There was just one airline we flew with this yr and I gotta say, we have been grateful to even be capable of fly! <\/p>\n

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Best Bucket List Moment<\/h2>\n

Winner: Driving a 4WD alongside Rainbow Beach, Australia<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

Having visited many instances over time the 4WD experiences of Rainbow Beach had all the time eluded us. But we lastly obtained to tick it off our bucket lists and it was definitely worth the wait! We beloved driving by means of the luxurious rainforest then zooming alongside large stretches of seashore bordered by the ocean. Driving previous the colored sands, gazing up on the Carlo Sand Blow and stopping on an empty seashore for a swim and a snack was the icing on prime.<\/p>\n

Runner-up: Taking an epic North to South Island Road Trip, New Zealand<\/a><\/span><\/h4>\n
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Best Travel Tech<\/h2>\n

Winner: Prepaid Travel Sim (from SimsDirect)<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

This is a type of issues I want we\u2019d began doing sooner! Before leaving for New Zealand we obtained pay as you go native sim playing cards from SimsDirect<\/a> and so they made our complete journey simpler. From wanting up eating places and cafes on the fly to discovering instructions, staying related and altering flights on the final minute, they have been invaluable. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: Apple Watch<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones<\/span><\/a><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Travel Accessory<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Winner: Insulated Travel Flask<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n

After speaking about all of it yr we lastly purchased a journey flask\/thermos and it has grow to be one of the best factor ever! Perfect for any journey on a chilly day we grew to become obsessive about filling ours with espresso or tea and stopping someplace lovely for a spot of morning tea, paired completely with goodies sourced from a neighborhood bakery. <\/p>\n

Runner-up: The Comfy Original<\/a>
<\/span>Honourable point out: Allocacoc PowerCube<\/a><\/span><\/h4>\n
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Best\u00a0Travel\u00a0Instagrammer<\/h2>\n

W<\/strong>interior: Cory & Charlotte\u00a0(@cjexplores)<\/a><\/h3>\n

In a yr the place journey alternatives have been restricted, Cory and Charlotte of CJ Explores have been a beacon of sunshine and inspiration! Capturing lovely images for his or her Instagram and creating implausible content material for YouTube they spent the yr exploring Queensland earlier than setting off on their large lap round Australia. They\u2019re splendidly proficient and really pretty individuals so remember to examine them out! <\/p>\n

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Best\u00a0Travel Vlogger<\/h2>\n

Winner: Beth and Paul (YouTube)<\/a><\/h3>\n

No different channel impressed pleasure for us in fairly the identical method as Beth and Paul\u2019s. It\u2019s like watching your finest good friend\u2019s dad and mom out on the earth having a stunning time and I can’t get sufficient of them! They\u2019re so candy, real and entertaining and I discover them so humorous even once they\u2019re not making an attempt to be. They\u2019re only a delight! <\/p>\n

Just a fast word to verify the Little Grey Box Travel Awards are based mostly solely on our experiences. None of those spots has been paid for or requested by any of these included, it\u2019s all legit love!<\/em><\/p>\n

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https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=8t52vsvHIoM<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>

Subscribe and by no means miss an episode!<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Useful journey sources to your subsequent journey!<\/h2>\n

If you discovered this submit helpful, we\u2019d be grateful in case you used the affiliate hyperlinks beneath. We\u2019ll make a small fee at no additional price to you. Rest assured, these are the services and products we love and use ourselves<\/strong>. Thanks to your assist! Phoebe and Matt x<\/a>.<\/em> <\/p>\n

Read our disclaimer<\/a> for extra data.<\/sup><\/p>\n

Agoda<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 lodge (& house) bookings
<\/a>Booking.com<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 lodge bookings<\/a>
Cover-More<\/strong> \u2013 journey insurance coverage<\/a>
Motorhome Republic<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 RV leases
<\/a>RentalCars.com<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 automobile leases
<\/a>SimsDirect<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 pay as you go journey SIM playing cards<\/a>
Skyscanner<\/strong> \u2013 flight bookings
<\/a>Surfshark<\/strong> \u2013 on-line safety & VPN<\/a>
TourRadar<\/strong> \u2013 tour bookings<\/a><\/p>\n

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