By Loanna Single on Jun 12, 2020 11:08:08 AM
Covid-19 has certainly created a challenging start to 2020 for New South Wales and it couldn’t have come at a worse time. Many regional towns had just come through the worst drought and then the worst bushfires on record, affecting more than 5.4 million hectares and destroying more than 5,000 local homes and businesses. The last thing the economy needed was something that would break it – and unfortunately, that’s exactly what we got.
Coronavirus hit our shores unexpectedly and it has significantly impacted the economy, shutting down businesses for months. Australians worked hard though, and we managed to flatten the curve to become one of the most successful nations to contain the spread of the virus. And our hard work is paying off, with businesses re-opening and restrictions on social distancing and travel lifting. Now, we need to look at how we can get the economy operating positively again – and a great way to play your part is by travelling locally.
Restrictions Lift
From June 1, residents of New South Wales can travel anywhere within the State, provided you maintain social distancing and good hygiene. This is great as it’s just in time for the school holidays at the start of July and its set to help the economy get back on it’s feet – provided people start booking!
If you’re used to travelling interstate or you’re looking for somewhere new to go this year, here are some of our best tips for exploring your own backyard and putting your money back into the NSW economy!
Wildlife Wonders
Hit hardest by the fires, and again struck down with Covid-19 restrictions, regional New South Wales is really doing it tough this year. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, why not take an overnight trip to the Blue Mountains region, where more than 81% of the region was affected by fires. The Blue Mountains offers an abundance of accommodation options and there is plenty to do, with walking and hiking trails, restaurants and cafes, picnic areas and mountain bike trails.
The Hunter Valley was also impacted by the fires and the tourism industry was badly affected, which was made worse by the pandemic. Help them get back on track by visiting local wineries and restaurants, while you explore the ancient rainforests and waterways.
Head along the coastline of NSW and there is plenty to see and do, regardless of which direction you go; from Coffs Harbour and Byron Bay in the north, to Bateman’s Bay and Narooma in the South.
Country NSW
From indulgent weekends away, through to weeks of exploration, winter sports and fun in the sun, there’s plenty to do in country NSW. Now is the perfect time to book your winter escape and with some ski fields re-opening, get in quick! Or you might want to stick to warmer places, like the home of country music – Tamworth; the oldest inland city – Bathurst; the historic Berrima in the Southern Highlands; or The Mighty Murray.
Head further out for a week’s stay in the outback and help the people of Broken Hill get their economy back on track. Visit the White Cliffs, Paroo-Darling National Park, explore the historic town of Bourke, or go 4WDing through the desert while camping or basing yourself in a townhouse or cottage. Winter is a great time to explore this region as its not so hot!
It doesn’t matter where you want to go in NSW, as long as you go! If you have the means to do so, we recommend booking in as soon as possible. There are some fantastic deals around at the moment as businesses get back on their feet, so why not play your part in getting things back to normal again. Besides, no doubt you NEED a holiday after all the stress of the past few months!
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