How to Plan Your Once-in-a-lifetime Holiday Tips

Paris, also known as the City of Lights, makes a perfect destination for lovers. Image source: Adobe Stock

That dream trip brewing in your mind is waiting to become a reality. Our tips for how to plan your once-in-a-lifetime holiday will fire up your imagination and help turn your travel fantasies into an extraordinary adventure.

To get the ball rolling, check out our recommendations for honeymoon destinations, birthday getaways, and all-inclusive luxury experiences from Europe to Asia and all the way to Africa.

What to consider when planning that ultimate holiday

Cover your bases with this checklist for a well-organised trip from start to finish:

Plan ahead

‘Sold out’ and ‘fully booked’ are the last things anyone wants to hear when they’re ready for a holiday. So start your research early, check online and speak to a travel consultant. The sooner you begin planning, the easier it will be to get bookings for your favourite international festivals, preferred accommodation and must-see attractions.

Explore all options on your wishlist

Pay extra attention to each destination and activity you’re interested in to uncover less-visited attractions, local recommendations and new experiences. Then, include the most enticing ones in your itinerary to make your trip even more memorable.

Be money-wise

Set a budget. Research online sites such as travel forums to find out about local expenses, and chat with a travel agent to budget realistically. It’s also worth considering cost-effective alternatives, like travelling during off-peak periods.

Arrange travel documents

Don’t forget to check visa requirements and organise the necessary paperwork well beforehand. Make copies of your tickets, passport and travel insurance policy for easy reference, and leave a copy with your emergency contact at home.

Now that you know what you want to do, let’s dive into the most thrilling part–celebrating significant occasions by planning a holiday that’s bound to take your breath away.

Less is more

While it’s tempting to do everything on your wishlist, resist the urge to cram too much into one holiday. By opting for fewer places and activities, you can take the time to explore at your own pace. Meaningful experiences are rarely enjoyed in a rush!

Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park, Tasmania. Image source: Adobe Stock

Honeymoon and anniversary getaways

Commemorate your love for each other with an unforgettable anniversary trip or once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon. Our top three oh-so-romantic destinations include:

Italy

Revel in each other’s company in one of the world’s most scenic countries. Italy’s history, culture, art, cuisine and landscapes make it an ideal getaway for couples looking for romance, adventure and relaxation.

Get lost in each other’s eyes at Villa Lena, a 19th-century haven in the Tuscan countryside surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. This agritourism hotel is also a creative retreat that attracts artists, musicians, designers and writers from around the globe. Alternatively, opt for the fairytale experience that awaits you at the Villa San Michele. This 15th-century monastery-turned-hotel captivates guests with its vaulted ceilings, graceful arches, nationally recognised gardens and panoramic views of Florence.

Fly from Perth Airport with Emirates or Qatar Airways.

Paris, France

The City of Lights has long been known as a lover’s paradise. Paris captures our hearts with its quaint cobblestone streets, inviting cafes and high-end boutiques, enveloped by its distinctive atmosphere.

Indulge your partner in five-star luxury. The centrally located Hotel Regina Louvre boasts an Art Nouveau design mimicking a Parisian mansion, where you can whisper sweet nothings over drinks on its exclusive garden terrace. The elegant Le Bristol Paris holds ‘Palace Status’ and is frequented by celebrities and royalty alike. Take a dip together in the rooftop pool with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop.

Fly from Perth Airport with Emirates or Qatar Airways.

Tasmania, Australia

Venture closer to home and discover Tasmania. Less crowded than traditional honeymoon destinations, Tasmania is more laid-back and intimate. Stargaze with your loved one, go island hopping and tour world-class wine trails with the island’s trademark stunning scenery.

Spanning most of the Freycinet Peninsula on the east coast, the Freycinet National Park reveals pink granite peaks, private bays, pristine sandy shores and a wealth of wildlife. Freycinet Lodge is set in native bushland, with contemporary cabins or coastal pavilions consisting of a living pod, bed pod and private outdoor bath for a super-romantic stay.

Fly from Perth Airport with Virgin Australia.

Wonderful wildlife in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Image source: Adobe Stock

Milestone birthday holidays

Mark entering a new decade by visiting a new territory. Some of our favourite spots that offer a dash of something special for a memorable significant birthday include:

Bali, Indonesia

The Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali offers a curated spa retreat experience for a wellness-focused celebration. Recharge with age-old Balinese healing practices amidst luxurious greenery framed by the deep blue Indian Ocean.

Alternatively, try Six Senses Uluwatu. This opulent resort perched atop limestone cliffs focuses on unwinding, rejuvenation and self-care. Whether you prefer a surfboard, helicopter or yacht, the many activities will give you unforgettable experiences in honour of your birth anniversary.

Fly from Perth Airport with Indonesia AirAsia, Citilink Indonesia, Jetstar.

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Known for its incomparable safari experience, Kruger National Park is South Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary. Stretching across two provinces and meeting at the border with Mozambique, the park encompasses two million hectares of untouched nature teeming with African wildlife. A guided game drive will ensure you encounter the park’s iconic animal, bird and reptile species.

Adjacent to the park is the opulent Tengile River Lodge, nestled on the bend of the Sand River. See elephants and other game along the riverbed, and witness majestic African sunrises and sunsets right from the comfort of your chic, secluded suite.

Fly from Perth Airport with South African Airways (from April 2024 onward).

Tokyo, Japan

Rich in appeal, especially for foodies and culture enthusiasts, Tokyo boasts countless attractions, including museums, centuries-old temples and street markets, along with the abundant fresh, seasonal food that characterises Japan’s tantalising cuisine.

Experience it all from the luxurious Aman Tokyo at the Otemachi Tower. The Japanese-inspired design of this urban hotel features Kumiko artwork, washi paper doors, floor-to-ceiling glass windows and clever use of natural light that adds depth and texture to its interiors. Enjoy expansive city views from the spa’s 30-metre heated pool as you ease into the start of another journey around the sun.

Fly from Perth Airport with All Nippon Airways.

The magical Christmas markets in Munich, Germany. Image source: Adobe Stock

All-inclusive experiences

Convenience is one of the most significant advantages of all-inclusive holidays that typically include meals, drinks and entertainment. They can be an enticing choice for couples, groups, and especially families, no matter where you are on the map. Here are a few of our favourites:

Christmas Markets of Europe 2024 & 2025, Munich to Budapest

Experience a classic European-style white Christmas at some of the oldest holiday markets in the world. The Ultra Lux Golden Eagle Rail from Munich to Budapest offers an eight-day all-inclusive journey on the Danube Express. This hotel-on-wheels has spacious cabins with private ensuites, full-length windows for uninterrupted scenery and extravagant dining and bar cars.

Winter delights in Hungary, Austria and Germany await—from horse-drawn carriages in Vienna to ice skating outside Saint Stephen’s Basilica in Budapest. End the year on a high note with the journey of a lifetime.

Das Central, Austria 

Step into the epitome of modern luxury at the multi-award-winning Das Central–one of Austria’s leading gourmet hotels with a cellar boasting over 30,000 bottles of exquisite wines. As an all-inclusive experience, guests can expect scrumptious breakfasts and world-class five-course farm-to-table dinners. Lunch is a fancy affair at the Ice Q restaurant featured in the 007 movie ‘Spectre’.

Enjoy complimentary access to the James Bond 007 Elements Museum, plus an Otztal Super Ski Pass to hit the slopes of Solden’s premier ski resorts. Wellness suites include private spas for an invigorating yet opulent stay.

Grecotel LuxMe White Palace, Crete

Enjoy unlimited drinks and a guaranteed sea view at this five-star resort. Admire panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and indulge in premium restaurants, with a supply of freshly-made snacks all day. Yoga, pilates and snorkelling are just some of the complementary activities, with an aqua park, mini zoo and farm for little guests to make precious memories.

The Greco LuxMe White Palace combines the highest levels of comfort and convenience for an unparalleled holiday experience in Greece.

Relax in Perth Airport’s Aspire Lounge before your departure. Image source: Perth Airport

Embark on the journey of your dreams from Perth Airport

Make your once-in-a-lifetime trip and dream holidays all the more memorable even before takeoff when you’re travelling through Perth Airport. Treat yourself to duty-free retail therapy, experience the novel Virtual Reality escape room or simply take it easy in style at our T1 Aspire Lounge. Why wait a minute longer? Start planning that special trip today!

All advice, recommendations and use of this blog is subject to Perth Airport Online Services - Terms of Use.