Olympics inspire what Aussies want to do on holiday

Aussies are being inspired by the Olympics when it comes to tackling adventurous experiences while on holiday.
A travel firm reveals there was a huge 163 per cent increase in bookings for white water rafting experiences in July and August as Australian Jess Fox enjoyed double gold success.
And companies are expecting that effect to grow.
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“This goes to show the profound impact that high-profile sporting events can have on tourism, driving Australians to seek out experiences for themselves,”  David Anderson, co-founder and CEO at Big Red Group, said.
Other activities Aussie most want to do on holiday the research found, included whale watching in Queensland which was up nearly 20 per cent, according to the Big Red Group, which owns RedBalloon, Adrenaline, and Experience Oz.
Family favourite Gold Coast theme parks also remain popular, while jet boats and sightseeing cruises in Queensland were also a must-do.
Meanwhile, Aussies are going more regional for holidays within the country the study found – perhaps because they are usually cheaper than cities.
Locations such as Young, Coffs Harbour and Orange, made regional NSW the most popular domestic travel destination in the country.
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Also high on the list for holidays were more out-of-the-way areas like Queensland’s northern outback and Western Australia’s Kimberley region.
David Anderson, co-founder and CEO at Big Red Group, said the “appetite for adventure remains” despite the cost of living crisis.
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“Data has shown us that there’s been a preference for exploring lesser-known destinations across the country – with the likes of Parramatta in NSW, Kimberley in WA, Brighton in TAS and Bellarine in QLD all seeing a surge in demand this season,” he tells 9Travel.
“Interestingly, there’s even been strong gains for Queensland’s northern outback.
“With international trips and Euro summers soaring in cost, domestic tourism offers Aussies the ability to manage their budgets more effectively while still enjoying unique and enriching experiences closer to home.”
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