Norfolk Island
 Is there still a place in this world where McDonalds doesn't exist, where you can go our for the day, leaving your front door wide open, and even leave the car unlocked with the keys in the ignition? If you are after a holiday that will transport you back in time to when family holidays were all about spending quality time together.
If you want to enjoy nature-based activities, then pack up the kids, snorkelling gear and suntan lotion, and return to life in the slow lane on Norfolk Island.
Prepare to rediscover the meaning of a relaxing and rejuvenating holiday. Norfolk is said to have the freshest air on earth next to Antarctica. This, combined with all the home-grown fruit and vegetables, and outdoor activities to enjoy, will soon give you all that healthy Norfolk glow. A tiny speck in the South Pacific - only 8 km by 5 km and just 2 1/2 hours' flying time from Brisbane or Sydney - Norfolk Island, with its colourful history, warm people and scenic beauty gives you the opportunity to do as much as you like or as little as you like.
There are glass bottom boats, with a myriad of spots to scuba dive or snorkel, horse and carriage rides, fishing both from the shore and by boat. Walking tracks or horse trails that take you through national parks will give you views of jutting cliffs that drop sheer into the ocean, and the smell of pines so fresh and exhilarating you really understand why someone would want to recreate this fragrance for products to freshen households.
Shopping is also an attraction not to be missed, with many duty-free bargains and brand names with price tags far lower than the mainland. Kids will love surf gear and the prices in Crackers and Peaking Pines Boutiques. Look out for the great buys on Lego and Barbie.
The kids will learn more here than in the classroom from the re-enactment of the Mutiny of the Bounty and the Sound and Light show that recreates the way life was when Norfolk was used as a penal settlement.
Besides being easily accessible, there are some excellent packages including car hire available for families, making this an affordable destination. Much of the accommodation available is self-contained apartments or cottages ideal for self-catering: a further saving on the overall holiday cost. Do make sure, though, to sample some of the restaurants on the island and be sure to try the Fish Fry at Puppies Point as the sun sets on the ocean, and sample traditional island fare at Cats Cafe or the Castaway Hotel.
This article is courtesy of Holidays with Kids |