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They’re a well-travelled bunch.

So, we figured, who better to ask?

YAs the peak holiday season begins to wind down and many of us settle into routines once more, we think it’s high time to start planning new adventures. After all, how else are you meant to beat those post-holiday blues? And when it comes to deciding on holiday destinations, there’s no one better to ask than our well-travelled Velocity Platinum or Gold Frequent Flyer members.

Below, we’ve gathered some destination recommendations from people who regularly take to the skies for your 2019 holiday inspiration. Happy travels. 

 

Wellington, New Zealand

Recommended by: Sarah Raine, Group Account Director, Velocity Gold member

They say you can’t beat Wellington on a sunny day, but any day in the capital is an opportunity to discover something wonderful. I love Wellington because it’s the epitome of New Zealand – full of arts and crafts, great food and beer, beautiful landscapes, and interesting people. Whenever I travel back to visit friends, I uncover another love. Last time it was sitting with my old uni friends enjoying an amazing seasonal meal at Rita in Aro Valley. I also always make sure I visit wholesale merchant Moore Wilsons, who have the best collection of local products. My favourite was Aunt Jeans, who sell beautiful unhomogenised Nelson milk in glass bottles. It made the most delicious flat white the next morning.

Don’t miss: The Te Papa Museum found on Wellington’s waterfront. It is a fascinating mix of Māori and European history and science, with regularly changing exhibitions.

Check out flights to Wellington

 

Canggu, Indonesia

Recommended by: Benson, DJ/Producer, Velocity Platinum member

I was recently lucky enough to travel to Bali for a gig alongside my good friends Peking Duk. We were playing at The Lawn (a beautiful beach club in Canggu), and we made sure we flew in a few days early to check out what the area had to offer. I've never been to Canggu before but the whole place was delicious. (Not sure if you can describe a town as delicious, but it was.)

We explored the markets, temples, sunsets and beaches while still managing to sneak if a few nights out along the way. The locals are extremely kind, generous and fun. It’s a well-rounded location for a holiday – quiet enough to relax, but enough people around to help you paint the town red!

Don’t miss: Sunset dinner at La Brisa (the food is incredible) and, of course, Black Cat speakeasy for drinks afterwards.

Check out flights to Bali

 

Hong Kong

Recommended by: Craig Roberts, Managing Director, Velocity Platinum member

Hong Kong is an amazingly vast and vibrant city, and a melting pot of people, culture and food. With over 50 Michelin starred restaurants (from high-end dining to street food stalls), culinary experiences rank among the best in the world. Most travellers don’t realise that just minutes outside the city are scenic hikes and beaches including Repulse Bay and Shek O. Dress up and head to the races at Happy Valley or take it easy on the waterfront with a cool drink after shopping up a storm at Stanley Market.

Don’t miss: Hiking the Dragon’s Back trail for spectacular scenic coastal views and glimpses of the city beyond.

Check out flights to Hong Kong

 

Los Angeles, USA

Recommended by: George Robinson, Travel Agent, Velocity Gold member

Los Angeles is my favourite city in the US. Beyond all of the Hollywood sheen, there’s a rich city that’s a real melting pot of cultures and subcultures. This means you’ll find the tastiest (and cheapest!) Mexican food you’ve ever tried beside a new-age smoothie shop frequented by celebrities, and a Korean supermarket right next to that. LA is a town of neighbourhoods, and a great way to really get to know the city is to select a few and dedicate a full day to each – I’d recommend Silver Lake (with plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants), West Hollywood (home to the famous Sunset Strip) and the rejuvenated Downtown area (where you can visit the Staples Center for an NBA game).

Don’t miss: Heading up to Griffith Observatory for a great view over the sprawling city (albeit, often through some smog).

Check out flights to Los Angeles

 

Byron Bay

Recommended by: Bree Daniel, Client Partner, Velocity Gold member

This year I lessened the blow of turning 40 by convincing by favourite female friends to accompany me to my now favourite Aussie getaway – Byron Bay. If I could uproot my life and plant it there I would. It’s got a drop of every potion I need for a magical holiday – LA-esque dining options (from cool hippy cafes to Hollywood star-frequented restaurants), food that strikes the perfect balance of wholesome and flavorsome, fantastic margarita options, boho chic boutiques, beautiful beaches, yoga everywhere, a lighthouse to run to, bars to dance in, and festivals to get amongst.

Don’t miss: The paddock-to-plate setting of Three Blue Ducks. Look out for the roaming resident rooster (and genetically-blessed waitstaff). And if you like margaritas, you can’t go past the Chipotle chilli and lime one at Miss Margarita. It’s perfect before a day or night out rocking to tunes at Bluesfest (held across Easter).

Check out flights to Byron Bay