Millennials Approved: Gold Coast Ultimate Destination to Explore
Millennials, the generation that is commonly thought to have lost genetic lottery and all economic and social privileges (compared to the Boomers), a generation born and raised in the midst of wars, terrorist attacks, poverty and general dissatisfaction with the state of things in the world, they still have managed to pull their act together and become the people we want to work with, hang out with and go to for advice and support.
Often portrayed as apathetic, self-involved, disinterested, tuned out and egotistical, these golden hybrids are anyway succeeding in paving the way to overwhelming successes, splendid changes and impressive revolutions – in all domains.
What have Millennials got to do with destination decisions?
Apart from being the it people to go to for your business consulting, they are also the it people to come to for any cultural, entertainment, social and leisure activities or agendas; Millennials are those hip people whose advice you want to trust.
Very forward and unapologetic about their choices, Millennials are most likely to post a negative/positive review of an establishment they felt deserved it, be it a hotel, a restaurant, taxi service or a traveling agency. They take their online reviews seriously, finding them extremely important when making a choice on an airline, destination or lodging.
The mighty Millennials have largely been raving about the oh-so-splendid-the- Golden-Coast which was a trigger enough for us to book a trip to Oz in a second.
So we went and took Millennials’ advice on activities to engage in. It was life-changing.
Experience the same activities and you won’t be sorry.
CHECK OUT THE THRIVING CULTURE
We’ll just throw you off immediately by starting with culture rather than the expected beach-talk.
The rise of the thriving cultural events on the Gold Coast is stealing the limelight, making it extremely attractive for people from around the world to come and witness the growing cultural impact for themselves.
Visual arts, theatre and dance gather a group of magnificent artists utilizing a variety of locations and landscapes in the city for every Bleach* Festival that is held across three consecutive weekends, only once a year. Stop for the free, outdoor exhibition SWELL, featuring more than 50 artists at various levels in their careers; it’s a 10-day exhibition open all day and night. When you get in the mood for some chill, go to the Night Quarter – Helensvale, a buzzing hub for music, markets, eats and events and enjoy a variety of craft beers, cocktails and Queensland wine as well as street food and desserts that will blow your mind. This is not where the list ends, just so you know.
EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Explore the powerful outdoors through great hikes leading you to Lamington National Park, Springbrook National Park, Tamborine Mountain or, if you are feeling like eyeing on gorgeous water views – walk from Coolangatta to Point Danger – it’s a spectacular view.
GO MARKET CRAWLING
One of the most gratifying things to do on the Gold Coast is spend a morning exploring the very best markets in the area, scoping out unique products, cool arts and crafts, fresh food and so much more. Take a peek at the Gold Coast Organic Farmers Markets, Burleigh Farmers Markets and Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets. And, when the sun is down (if you are in town on a Friday or Saturday), go by the awesome Night Quarter – you’ll be taken by live music at Helensvale and the atmosphere that can’t be described with words.
TRY STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDS AND JET SKI SAFARIS
If you don’t hire a stand-up paddle board or cruise the sparkling waters of the area on a Jet Ski, it’s like you’ve never been to the Gold Coast. Check out SUP in Paradise, Go Vertical SUP Hire and the Currumbin Boat Shed.
MAKE A DAY TRIP TO BYRON BAY
Byron Bay is a must visit for everyone who wants to experience the real vibrations of the Gold Coast; home to the rich and the famous, as well as the hippies and backpackers, Byron Bay is an experience that will take your breath away. If you are lucky, you may find some locals to share accommodation with for a few days and take in the real ambiance of the city.
Take a trip to Cape Byron Lighthouse to enjoy the spectacular views over the Pacific Ocean.
If possible, stay at least two weeks (or longer) on the Gold Coast as it’s virtually impossible to experience everything this amazing country has to offer in just a few days. Of course this text never mentioned white sandy beaches overlooking the breath-taking, marvelous waters or the nightlife that’s, in lack of a better word, exhilarating – if it did, you’d be reading about it for hours! That – and so many other things!
About the author
Marie Nieves is a lifestyle blogger who loves unusual trips, gadgets and creative ideas. On her travels, she likes to read poetry and prose and to surf the Internet. Her favourite writer is Tracy Chevalier and she always carries one of her books in her bag. Most of her free time at home she spends walking her Labrador Retriever named Max. She is an avid lover of photography who loves to talk about her experiences. You can find Marie on Facebook or follow her on Twitter and Pinterest.