From power outages in tropical storms to road-tripping across Canada with nothing but a cooler and a coffee maker, we’ve learned one thing: power matters. Whether we’re charging gear on a family camping trip or running a mini fridge during an overnight blackout, a reliable portable power station makes all the difference.
This guide walks you through what to look for in a portable power station, from wattage to charging speed, and explain why we think the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 hits the sweet spot for most travelers, campers, and backup power users.
From Campsites to Power Outages: The FlashSpeed 1500 Is Built for Real Life
With so many models out there (and more acronyms than a tax manual), how do you know what’s actually worth your money?
We wrote this guide to help you cut through the jargon. And spoiler alert: We think the price and features of the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 make it worth a permanent spot in your gear closet. Here’s what to look for, and why we think this model stands out.
Why We Care About Portable Power (And Why You Might Too)
Whether you’re road-tripping, off-grid camping, prepping for emergencies, working on a jobsite or just tired of your laptop dying during backyard work sessions, portable power stations have become an essential tool.
But with so many on the market, it can be tough to know what features actually matter. This guide breaks it down clearly, and shows why the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 is one of the best all-around options we’ve tested.
Power Output and Capacity: What Can It Actually Run?
When shopping for a portable power station, look at two key specs: wattage (how much power it can deliver at once) and capacity (how long it can run those devices).
The FlashSpeed 1500 strikes a solid balance with a 1500W continuous output, a 3000W surge/peak rating, and 1548Wh of capacity. That means it can comfortably run everything from laptops and phones to fridges, coffee makers, and even power tools. We even tested it boiling a kettle and running a microwave in a simulated power outage, and it powered both like a champ.
You can even jump-start your car in a pinch.The VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 portable power station includes a dedicated jump-start port specifically designed for this. You need to use the specific VTOMAN cables for this though, sold separately, linked here. They seem a bit short, but hey, it’s nice to have the option.
Need more juice? VTOMAN offers an optional 1548Wh expansion battery, doubling your capacity to 3096Wh without buying a second unit.
Charging Speed: Faster Than Most
This is where the FlashSpeed 1500 really stands out. Plug it into the wall and it charges from 0 to 100% in about 1 hour flat. No external power brick required, just a standard AC plug.
The fact that the FlashSpeed 1500 doen’t have a bulky power brick is huge for me, honestly. I find them annoying to transport, and I’m always worried I’ll forget mine at home, so not having to bother with one is a big perk for me with the FlashSpeed 1500.
Want solar flexibility? It supports up to 400W of solar input (double what most units this size permit) and 200W via DC. Better yet, you can combine wall, solar, and DC charging simultaneously to get a full recharge in as little as 45 minutes.
Port Selection: Versatility Built In
One of the most practical features of the FlashSpeed 1500 is the wide range of output options:
3 x AC outlets (110V, 1500W and up to 3000W surge)
2 x USB-C PD 100W
4 x USB-A (3 standard, 1 Quick Charge 3.0)
1 x 12V car outlet
2 x 12V DC5521 (for CPAP machines or DC appliances like powered coolers)
No adapters, no swapping out plugs. It can charge your laptop, phone, camera batteries, and power your cooler all at the same time.
Battery Type and Longevity: Built to Last
The FlashSpeed 1500 uses a LiFePO4 battery rated for over 3000 full cycles. That’s years of use without losing much capacity. It also includes VTOMAN’s SuperSafe™ LifeBMS system, which provides 10 layers of protection, including overcurrent, overcharge, and temperature protection.
Translation: It’s safer and more durable than many cheaper lithium-ion models.
Real-World Use: Camping, Emergencies, and More
We tested the FlashSpeed 1500 and it handled everything from powering LED lights and charging phones to running a portable coffee maker.
At just under 42 lbs (18.83 kg), it’s not a featherweight, but the dual non-slip handles and compact shape make it easy to carry and stow. The top also has built-in cable storage for quick grab-and-go.
Bonus points for the built-in LED light bar with multiple brightness levels, strobe, and SOS modes, which is a great feature for dark campsites or emergency use.
I used it to power our home microwave, and it easily ran for four minutes to heat up a bowl of veggies during a simulated power outage.
Noise Level and Build Quality
The FlashSpeed 1500 stays quiet when running most devices including charging things like phones and tablets, but the fans do kick in during heavy loads or fast charging, up to 70dB in our tests. Still, it’s way quieter than a gas generator and fine for use full time at a campsite or even indoors unlike a gas generator.
Build quality is solid. All ports are front-facing, the LCD is bright and easy to read, and there’s even pass-through charging support and a <20ms UPS switchover for keeping sensitive devices like computers or CPAPs powered during outages.
Downsides: What Could Be Better?
No Bluetooth or app control
Fan is loud during wall charging
Shuts off after 6 hours if no load is detected (which could be a problem for intermittently running devices or once a day timer based power needs)
Final Thoughts: A Feature-Rich, Fast-Charging Standout
If you’re looking for a power station that checks all the right boxes, including capacity, charging speed, port variety, expandability, and safety, then the VTOMAN FlashSpeed 1500 delivers. It’s well-suited for camping, emergencies, remote work, or van life.
It’s also currently available for $579 USD (down from $1399), which is an excellent deal for a 1500Wh LiFePO4 unit with this many features.
It’s no secret that Knoxville ranks high up on our list of must-visit destinations. Much of my family was born there, and I’m a proud graduate of University of Tennessee. But despite my extensive knowledge of East Tennessee’s largest city, the Knoxville arts scene is an ever-changing tapestry of color and innovation that keeps every trip fresh and exciting for even the most seasoned traveler.
If you’re planning a Knoxville weekend trip in the future, here’s everything you need to know about where to stay, eat, visit and get your art on.
Stay at Knoxville’s art hotel
Knoxville’s premier luxury hotel, the Tennessean, opened a few years back adjacent to World’s Fair Park. This hotel has long been a favorite of mine—it was my fourth stay here!—thanks to its well-appointed rooms and location just blocks off Market Square.
The 82 rooms have a distinct Tennessee design with carpeting meant to channel the flow of the Tennessee River and topographical maps hanging on the walls in all the rooms. Each of the floors are named after a river in Tennessee, and there’s even a special Pat Summitt Suite we got to tour on this Knoxville visit. A portion of proceeds from the booking of this suite are donated to the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, which we also visited on this trip.
If you know me, you know how much the late Lady Vols coach impacted my life, so seeing an entire guest suite dedicated to her memory was truly something special. I also love the Drawing Room restaurant, which serves breakfast, dinner and a unique-to-the-area tea service daily. Request a room that faces World’s Fair Park.
The floor-to-ceiling windows offer a unique perspective of Knoxville art with the Sunsphere, museum and World’s Fair Park murals all in view depending on your position in the hotel. Request a corner suite for the most epic views, though really you can’t go wrong with any of the Tennessean’s rooms, which are a luxuriously spacious 470 square feet in size at minimum.
If the Tennessean is not available, you’ve got several options in the downtown, including:
The Oliver
Cumberland House
Hilton Knoxville
Marriott Knoxville Downtown
The Maker Exchange
Within the hotel’s common area, which it shares with the adjoining Marriott Hotel, Maker Exchange debuted just last year and is a game-changer in terms of how spaces can incorporate experiential art. You can feel the masterful craftsmanship of Megan Lingerfelt and Curtis Glover in all corners of this hotel lobby and the art gallery display space that is branded as the Maker Exchange.
Local artist Robin Easter designed all the patterned murals that adorn the walls both inside and outside the hotel, and Lingerfelt and Glover painted them over a three-month period last year. They’re truly remarkable, and the paint job is such a high level of perfection, you may be fooled into thinking they’re wallpaper, but rest assured, this pair of highly sought-after muralists hand-painted every last line.
The oversized great room makes for an opulent and classy display venue for locally crafted paintings, textile and ceramics while providing the hotel with an additional point of interest. An expansive fireplace with seating area, an attached bar, and the Tavern restaurant that overlooks the World’s Fair Park make it hard to beat as a one-stop shop for an afternoon of leisure and artistic absorption.
There’s also original art by local makers hanging on the walls throughout the lobby level. See something you like? Everything is for sale. The art gallery, the Curio, which is open to the public and free to peruse, features rotating exhibitions like the final products from the students of Lingerfelt’s recent mural workshops.
The Tennessean’s restaurants and bars
Located on the second floor of the Tennessean, The Drawing Room has a speakeasy-style bar with dapper tuxedoed staff, classic cocktails and a French inspired selection of appetizers and dinner plates. If you’re looking for an elevated place to have a cocktail, this is your place—so long as you promise us you’ll try the signature smoked old fashioned.
An elegant option for breakfast, as well, the Drawing Room whips up all the classics of an American-style diner plus avocado toast, lox bagels and shrimp and grits for those of us that seek out an easy brunch menu.
Need a quick pick-me-up before a day of exploring Knoxville’s art scene? Perk Up at Maker Exchange features specialty coffee drinks made from local roastery Vienna Coffee Company and enjoy it in any of the pleasant vignettes strategically placed throughout the Tennessean’s lobby level.
New to the Tennessean’s menu of activities is the addition of e-bikes, which includes a Pedals and Prosecco e-Biking Experience. The first of its kind locally, the concierge offers fat tire e-bikes to guests for tooling around downtown Knoxville.
Sunsphere Park is also a perfect spot to have a picnic with some bubbly, so take a basket with you and set up shop along the water in World’s Fair Park.
Eat your way through Knoxville’s food scene
Any night out with friends will be served up with a little bit of flair and artistry. Seeking out food options in a college town of more than 40,000 students and countless alumni is always a challenge, not because of lack of options but so many delicious restaurants. Knoxville dishes out some of the finest examples of mindfully curated cuisine we’ve experienced in the South, and these places will give you a taste of that most ancient of craftsmanship: food.
Potchke
It seems like the only place my Knoxville friends go for breakfast or lunch anymore is Potchke, an elevated Jewish bakery with a flair for the cheeky comments, and I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. Potchke thrums with the energy of a well-made lunch consumed in a brightly lit room. Every dish on the menu has a vegan or gluten-free option, and there’s always an interesting variation of house-made seltzers or tonics to try as an accompaniment.
This restaurant is a must-stop for breakfast or brunch and just oozes freshness and spice.
Vida
Located on the ground floor of the thoughtfully remodeled Holsten Building, Vida is one of the hottest destinations for artistic dining and fancy drinks. With a Latin-influenced menu that anchors back to French cuisine, the options for food are a delightful mix of eclectic tapas plates.
Carrots, fennel and ricotta are a popular starter as are the corn croquettes and empanadas; crab cakes, scallops or the pork belly are all wise choices for sharable dishes. The restaurant is also centered around a bar that shakes out a healthy selection of alcohol-forward drinks so it’s also a good spot for a special date or occasion. Be sure and take a peek in the Vault, a speakeasy-like subterranean bar, downstairs before you go.
Kaizen
When we travel, Asian cuisine is always top of our list, and Knoxville restaurants feature several options, our latest favorite of which is Kaizen, an izakaya-inspired Japanese-style pub serving up tapas-style small plates like pork bao buns, tamari-glazes potatoes and hot-and-sour duck noodles. The restaurant also stocks a deep well of whiskey, both Japanese and American varieties.
Simpl.
Situated in South Knoxville (aka SoKno) along one of the most vibrant and ever-changing street art neighborhoods, Simpl. is sandwiched between a couple of breweries and along a popular bicycle route that skirts the Tennessee River. An airy interior with fairly limited seating, it’s best to either arrive early or make reservations for this seasonally driven and Mexican-inspired restaurant.
Sleepy weekend breakfast at this Sevier Avenue joint is popular, and we quickly learned why. The brunch burgers with tomato jam and a sunny egg are fan favorites as is the extensive breakfast cocktail menu.
Other Knoxville restaurants we love:
J.C. Holdway
KOYO
A Dopo
Sweet P’s BBQ
Curious Dog
Brother Wolf
Osteria Stella
The Kennedy
Stock & Barrel
Lilou Brasserie
The French Market Creperie
Taste the art of brewing at these Knoxville breweries
One way Knoxville continues to up the ante is with its brewery scene, which is always booming and ever-growing. We’re constantly trying out new spots every time we visit Knoxville, and here are a few of our most recent favorites.
XUL
In the heart of the Fourth & Gill neighborhood just beyond the Old City, XUL is a classic indoor-outdoor space that smells like yeasty bread from the beer-brewing process and immediately sucked us in. With an IPA-, hazy- and sour-forward menu, their brand of fermented beverages are experimental and really, really good. Bonus: There are a significant number of gluten-free beers on tap, a rarity in the brewing world.
The vibe of the taproom—a former 1960’s car showroom—is low-key lounge and with a rotating cast of food trucks parked outside, it’s easy to make an afternoon of visit. Geezers Brewing is in the same development, and Crafty Bastard just a few blocks away.
Yee-Haw
We’ve been fans of this Johnson City-based brewery since it opened in 2015, and it’s been fun to watch it grow into new locations in Nashville and now Knoxville. The expansive indoor-outdoor space is outfitted with turfed areas, big screens for sporting events and game day viewing, booths inside and a Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack outpost for sustenance.
Pretentious Craft Co.
Another long-time favorite brewing company of ours, Pretentious epitomizes Knoxville’s art scene as being possibly the only place in the world where you can drink beer brewed on site from a glass hand-blown just next door, where you can also watch the process from start to finish.
Other Knoxville breweries we love:
Printshop Beer Co.
Crafty Bastard Brewery
Schulz Brau Brewing Company
Abridged Beer Co.
Hi-Wire Brewing Taproom
Alliance Brewing Company
Last Days of Autumn Brewing
Beer not your vibe? Right in the middle of bustling Jackson Avenue, PostModern Spirits is a craft distillery focusing on spirits like gin that it weaves into its many bar offerings.
Also nearby, Tern Club offers a wide range of rum- and mezcal-forward drinks artfully served up in a very tiki bar-style atmosphere.
Explore Knoxville museums and architecture
Knoxville’s most iconic landmark, the Sunsphere—a 26-story tower with 24-karat-gold glass panes—was built for the 1982 World’s Fair and is undoubtedly the most recognizable building in the city if not the state. For $5, you can now take an elevator to the observation deck during normal business hours on Tuesday through Sunday and see Knoxville from a new perspective.
Spring and summer are fun seasons to visit Knoxville as there seems to be a festival every weekend. Late April always brings the Dogwood Arts Festival, which has been around since 1961, and completely overtakes World’s Fair Park with fine art vendors, live music, entertainment, children’s activities, and food and beverage offerings galore. Early June is our dog Ella’s favorite event, Bike Boat Brew & Bark, alongside the Tennessee River.
Directly across World’s Fair Park from the Tennessean and the Sunsphere, Knoxville Museum of Art offers free admission daily and access to a collection spanning more than 1500 objects. A diverse array of art—paper, paintings, mixed media works, sculpture—the art museum’s primary focus is on mid-19th century to the present. The works are from a mix of regional names and international contemporary artists.
Shop these Knoxville arts mainstays
The south end of Gay Street where it intersects Jackson Avenue is where you’ll find some of Knoxville’s boutiques and artist shops. New to the area last summer is Paris Woodhull Illustrations, the brick and mortar of one of our favorite Knoxville artists who not only paints block-long murals but also turns her own designs into very Instagrammable T-shirts, dish towels, stickers and much, much more.
A few doors down, Jacks of Knoxville is a plant shop, cafe and home goods store all rolled into one. Across the street, Addison’s is a bi-level bookstore specializing in rare and old books with more contemporary pre-owned literature in the basement.
Down in the Old City, Rala—which stands for “regional and local artisans”—has been a favorite spot of mine ever since it opened. Directly across from Dogwood Arts Gallery, the boutique stocks an incredibly well-curated collection of goods made by local artists, from graphic Tees to wall art, posters to jewelry. If wearable art is more your forte, Honeymouth makes dopamine-rich leather goods.
See Knoxville’s urban art culture up close
If you make your base at Market Square for the afternoon, you’ll be able to easily walk to the many Knoxville murals and see a variety of urban art while you’re at it.
Krutch Park, for example, boasts more than a dozen sculptures—including our favorite, a dog fixated on a ball—throughout its acre domain, as well as water features and a pair of women’s suffrage monuments.
No matter the time of year you’re visiting Knoxville, there is bound to be something going on within Market Square’s perimeter, whether free jazz in the summer or the uber-cool Chalk Walk Knoxville held each April. We caught the tail end of the chalk paintings just before the spring rain washed them away.
Not even a block away toward Gay Street, you’ll find yourself in Strong Alley, the entrance of which is a rotating seasonal mural by Megan Lingerfelt, a fun whimsical painting by Paris Woodhull, a handful of other urban art vignettes. At the other end is, of course, a Dolly Parton mural.
If you dig a grittier art scene, SoKno is where you’ll find much of Knoxville’s graffiti, especially if you detour from Sevier Avenue onto Island Home where the walls are fortified with urban art. Also in South Knoxville is Paris Woodhull’s “Victoria” mural on the side of Printshop Beer Co. I may be a tad bit biased—our nonprofit spearheaded this mural as part of our Walls for Women project—but I think it’s the best art and beer in the city!
Peruse the many Knoxville art galleries
The Knoxville arts would be nothing without its richly diverse community of artists, patrons, styles and cultural institutions. A great time to visit Knoxville is on First Friday when many of the shops and art galleries along Gay Street, Market Square and the Old City have extended hours, as well as live music and food vendors.
Located in a nationally historic building built in 1890 in Emory Place, Pivot Point Gallery is a two-story art gallery highlighting the work of local artists, regional artists and national artists. Personally, I loved this mix of style and background; it made for an incredibly eclectic body of work. Next door, Lilienthal Gallery brings avant-garde international exhibitions to the Maker City. While we were there, this upscale Knoxville gallery housed the stunning three-dimensional work of female Israeli artists.
Be sure and check out these Knoxville galleries, too:
The Art Market
The Emporium
UT Downtown Gallery
Arrowmont Gallery
RED Gallery
Dogwood Arts Gallery
Have you been to the Maker City? Were you just as impressed by the Knoxville art scene as we were?
Wanna travel to the Middle East with Against the Compass?
Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kurdistan and more. We have group expeditions scheduled every month to the most exciting destinations in the Middle East.
The Middle East…
That enormous piece of territory often overlooked as a whole and, usually, only seen as the land of the greatest and most beautiful deserts, endless bazaars of spices and the warm welcome of the Bedouins.
Moreover, most of the time, the international media only likes to share images of disasters and bad things happening in the Middle East.
This distortion of reality changes people’s perception to the extent that the whole region of the Middle East becomes a dangerous place to travel to as if it was one single country.
But, you know what? The Middle East is composed of 14 different countries that differ massively from each other, have boundaries and share borders.
Which countries are part of the Middle East?
In my opinion, these are the countries that comprise the Middle East:
Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates and Yemen
Officially, the Middle East also includes Turkey and Cyprus, but this is my blog, and I decided not to include them and, instead, I decided to include Libya in this list.
Anyways.
After many years of living and traveling around the region, based on my own experience and opinion, I have compiled a list of the 39 best places to travel in the Middle East.
These choices are based on their level of security, historical importance, and natural beauty.
My objective is to show you not only that the Middle East is a safe place to travel to, but I also want you to see the huge natural and cultural contrast between countries and the relevant role they have in our history.
Located in the north of Iraqi Kurdistan, only 10km away from the Turkish border, Amadiya is a lovely, very photogenic village located on the flat top of a mountain, which has no less than 5,000 years of history.
From the Assyrians to the Persians, as well as several Jewish and Christian communities, dozens of different civilizations and religions have left their footprint in this historical place.
Furthermore, Amadiya is believed to be the home of the Three Wise Man, who made a pilgrimage to Bethlehem to see Jesus Christ after his birth.
Today, Amadiya is a Muslim Kurdish village, surrounded by the most striking mountain scenery, characteristic from northern Iraq and one the most beautiful places to travel in the Middle East.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, Shibam is a 7000-inhabitant town, located in the middle of nowhere, composed of 9-story mud-brick buildings, which is why it’s often referred to as the ‘Manhattan of the desert’, even though I don’t really like these comparisons.
Unlike other sites of great interest in Yemen, Shibam is located in a region named Hadramut, a relatively safe in Yemen with direct flights from Cairo in Egypt.
Esfahan is Iran’s most amazing city and its mosques, composed of giant domes and mind-blowing ceilings with extravagant geometrical forms, are the most impressive buildings in the Middle East, without any doubt.
Being one of the most historical cities in the region, Esfahan has always been home to a large community of scholars and prestigious intellectuals and its importance and influence in this part of the world was often compared to Athens and Rome.
Today, as per Iranian standards, Esfahan is a surprisingly modern, clean and vibrant city where some of the most educated and brilliant people in the country live.
This is the first thing the hotel receptionist told me on the day I arrived in the city.
Damascus is indeed one of the most ancient cities in the world – probably the oldest country capital – established in the second millennium BC, and capital of the Umayyad Caliphate from 661 to 750, one of the most important caliphates ever, extending from Spain to Iran.
My favorite place in Damascus was Umayyad mosque, an outstanding mosque which passed from being a Jupiter Temple during the Roman era to a Christian basilica dedicated to John the Baptist and then one of the largest mosques in the world.
Today, Damascus is a safe city and, fortunately, the Old City has remained like that during most of the war.
I visited it at the beginning of 2019 and had a real blast.
Join a group of like-minded travelers to visit the wonders of Damascus, Aleppo, Palmyra and more.
Sept 23rd to 30th, 2025
The beautiful Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, one of the oldest and largest mosques in the world and one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Middle East
Extending from Western Europe to North Africa and the Middle East, the Roman Empire was the greatest empire that has ever existed.
Today, most of its ruins, some of them in relatively good condition, are major tourist attractions that receive hundreds of visitors every day.
Outside of Rome, the ruins of Baalbek are among the most impressive, not only due to their dimensions and good preservation, but also because you are likely to have the ruins to yourself as, here, we are talking about Lebanon, one of the most off the beaten track destinations in the region, where you can experience the greatest Roman ruins like nowhere else, hence one of the best places to travel in the Middle East.
600km from the capital of Libya (Tripoli) and nestled right at the triple border between Algeria, Tunisia and Libya, Ghadames is an ancient caravan city, one of the most important caravan cities in all of Africa. The Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a massive, entangled maze of streets built in a refreshing oasis in the middle of the desert.
It does take one full day to reach Ghadames by car from the capital Tripoli, but the journey is worth the trip.
Stretching from south Oman all the way to the Yemeni border, Dhofar’s coastline may differ significantly from what you expect from an Omani beach.
Vertiginous cliffs, turquoise-blue waters, and empty, epic beaches characterize the beaches of southern Oman, barely discovered by the average traveler, who tends to stick to the northern part of the country.
If you are into wild, random camping and road trips, in the Middle East, it doesn’t really get better than this.
Unfortunately, very little is known about Saudi Arabia but, given that this is the home of Mecca, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Saudi is filled with ancient and historical places, and one of the best examples is Al Balad, the old part of Jeddah, established 1,300 years ago as the gateway for Muslims on their way to Mecca, mostly arriving by sea from Africa.
Today a UNESCO World Heritage site, Al Balad is a lively area filled with colorful facades and, by far, the most beautiful Old City from all the Gulf Monarchies.
Traveling to Saudi Arabia is getting easier than ever and here you read my tips for Saudi.
Jeddah Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site
11 – Jerusalem – The holiest place for the three main monotheist religions
Today, Jerusalem is part of Israel but, if Palestine ever becomes an independent state, East Jerusalem, which is mostly inhabited by Arabs, will be the capital of the country.
Being one of the most important places for Christians, Muslims, and Jews, Jerusalem is a city that has perfectly combined tradition and history with a 21st-century city, meaning that you can stroll around the old city and its historical sites for days and, at the same time, enjoy the endless nightlife, food scene, and modernity of the new part of Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is one of those cities that are worth spending several days in.
What if I tell you that, in a very remote part of Iran, bordering the Turkmenistan border, there is a region with an unexpectedly mystical landscape, home to a large Turkmen community who have more similarities to people from Kyrgyzstan than other Iranians.
This region is called Golestan province, one of the least visited provinces in Iran, whose main peculiarity is that most of its inhabitants are ethnically Turkmen, a Central Asian ethnicity originally from Turkmenistan.
From Central Asian food, such as plov and kurut, to the way they dress, the Mongolian features in people’s faces and a very Central Asian nomadic life, visible in their love for horses and the yurts they live in, Golestan is a different world from the rest of the Middle East.
Mosul is exceptional, one of my favorite cities in all of the Middle East, and the reasons are as follow:
First of all, it is a very diverse city.
Prior to the war against the Islamic State, Mosul was inhabited by different types of Christians, Muslims and also Yazidis. It was ethnically mixed too, home to Armenians, Kurds, Arabs and Assyrians.
When ISIS took it over, however, most of them fled the city but today, many are coming back and the streets are becoming more lively than ever.
On the other hand, the Old City of Mosul is an open-air museum, packed with historical mosques and churches, all of them being in the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.
While it’s true that most of the buildings are today largely destroyed due to the recent war, there’s a big UNESCO team working on rebuilding all its wonders, allowing you to witness an exciting moment of living history.
Not many cities in the world have as much history as Erbil has.
With almost 30,000 years of history, according to historians, and, today a UNESCO World Heritage site, Erbil is the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, a city with plenty of tradition, filled with plenty of ancient bazaars, epic cafés, and historical sites.
Nevertheless, the awesomeness of Erbil doesn’t end up here and, in fact, what may surprise you is that, as well as a classic Middle Eastern Muslim city, this is also a real pro-Western metropolis and a regional business hub where a large expat community lives and, as a consequence, has some of the most awesome nightlife in the Middle East.
Even though this is likely the most touristic site in the region, it would be a sin not to consider one of the 7 wonders among one of the best places to visit in the Middle East.
Petra was founded in the VI century B.C. by the Edomites but, it didn’t prosper until the Nabateans (a group of nomadic Arabs) took over the place and built the city by carving it from the rock, making it become an important trading hub.
The architecture of Petra leaves you breathless and, besides admiring the Treasury and the Monastery, I recommend getting off the path, going hiking and taking the trails less traveled.
The Monastery, Petra – Things to do in the Middle East
Wadi Doa’n is a canyon-shaped valley located in the region of Hadramut and dotted with fairy-tale-like villages whose architecture is a real blessing to the eyes.
The canyon offers plenty of trekking opportunities with spectacular, vertiginous views, and there’s even a pretty cool resort on the top of a cliff where you can stay and which remains open despite the conflict.
Many of the people from these villages, especially young kids, have never seen foreigners, so the local life there is pretty raw. To make it even more exciting, there’s one village named Qarht Bahumaish, which is Usama Bin Laden’s hometown. He was born in Saudi but his family comes from there.
Beirut is the capital of Lebanon, a city that suffered one of the longest contemporary Civil Wars (25 years, ending in 1991). Today, among all the destroyed buildings, Beirut brags about being one of the safest cities in the region. With unbelievable economic growth and the rapid rise of the middle class, Beirut is the most liberal and westernized city in the Middle East (outside of Israel).
I love Beirut because of its deep, rich and contrasting history. It’s composed of dozens of districts that differ massively from each other: The hipster district of Gemmayzeh, Hezbollah areas like Bourj al-Barajneh, the student neighborhood of Hamra, old Palestinian refugee camps, the Armenian district of Bourj Hammoud, several Christian areas and much, much more! Beirut is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world.
From the deepest underground parties to the most glamorous clubs, from local eateries to the best fine dining restaurants in the region, Beirut is a city adaptable to any kind of traveler and budget.
Saudi Arabia is a massive country and, as such, it has quite a few geographical areas, the most dramatically different being Jizan, a province bordering the country of Yemen.
Asian-like terraced fields, greenery, and monkeys comprise the mountain villages of Jizan, miles away from Saudi Arabia stereotypes, plus the people there are culturally Yemeni, from the food they eat to the way they traditionally dress.
Maaloula is a Christian town located north of Damascus (Syria) with an intriguing history, both ancient and contemporary.
On the one hand, this is one of the very few places in the world where they speak Aramaic, the language of Jesus, making it such a unique place.
Now that tourists are a rare thing to see, if you visit The Convent of Saint Serge and Bacchus, you are likely to meet the priest, who will certainly be more than happy to recite some words in Aramaic.
The recent history of Maaloula, however, isn’t so fortunate, since it was taken by Al Nusra (similar to ISIS) during the war, the legacy of which is still very visible in the many destroyed buildings. In fact, the nuns running the Monastery of Saint Tekla are the ones who were kidnapped by the Muslim extremists, a sad event in which even the Pope intervened.
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Occupying territory in both Israel & Palestine and Jordan, the Dead Sea is the lake with the highest salt density in the world and also, the lowest point on Earth, 430 meters below sea level.
Such is the high concentration of salt that animals and plants can’t live in it, hence the name.
Swimming in the Dead Sea is totally fine and, due to the high density of the water, sinking is almost impossible. I’ve only been to the Jordanian side of the Dead Sea and, along the coast, there are several hotels and resorts where you can chill on their beaches and have a mud bath.
The Dead Sea from Jordan side and Palestine at the other side – Best places to travel in the Middle East
21 – Liwa Oasis – The purest and wildest image of the Gulf
Around 500 years ago, a group of Bedouins tapped underground, freshwater recourses to cultivate dates and, as a result, several villages and settlements appeared in the area, which we currently call Liwa, the birthplace of the Nahyan family, the current ruling family of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.
Since then, and over the years, the cultivation of dates in Liwa has been a key factor in the region’s economic development.
Liwa is located in the south of UAE, next to Saudi Arabian border and on the edge of the Empty Quarter, a huge desert spread across UAE, Yemen, Oman, and Saudi Arabia and considered the largest (continuous) sea of dunes on Earth, whose end can’t even be seen from the furthest horizon.
In addition, in Liwa you can also find the only real Bedouins in the UAE and the Moreeb dune, one of the highest dunes in the world (300m).
Along with Damascus, I also visited Aleppo at the beginning of 2019.
Before the war, Aleppo used to be the largest and most touristic city in the country.
Being a few thousands years older than Damascus, the Citadel and Old City of Aleppo have been mostly destroyed by the Civil War but after the liberation of the city in 2017, the reconstruction has already begun, Syrians are moving back and shops are, very slowly, reopening.
I am pretty sure that, in a matter of years, the beautiful city of Aleppo will return to its maximum splendor.
Similar to Tabouk, have you ever been to Petra, in Jordan?
Imagine the wonders of Petra but in the desert of Saudi Arabia.
That’s Madain Saleh (or Hegra).
Hegra was an ancient city founded by local tribes in 3000 BC, but it was not until the 2nd century BC that the Nabateans made it a great city, in a fear of the Romans conquering Petra, so it could serve as the new capital.
Still, the Romans conquered both cities, Hegra and Petra, but the more than 100 tombs carved from the giant desert rocks remained, today found in the middle of nowhere.
Unlike Petra, however, the tombs of Madain Saleh are spread out across a vast desert but as part of the visit, you can tour around with a pretty cool Vintage Jeep.
Dahab is a lovely touristic beach town inhabited by Bedouins in the Sinai peninsula, which is considered the most backpacking-friendly place (and probably the only one) in the Middle East.
For decades, Dahab has attracted travelers from all over the world for having some of the best diving in the country. In Dahab, one comes for two things: either scuba diving or doing literally nothing, as it has this laid-back atmosphere that consists of going to the beach, smoking weed and eating at the several seafood restaurants.
Besides, due to the massive drop of the Egyptian Pound, in Dahab, you could easily rent a full apartment (2 beds with Wi-Fi) for less than 9USD a day.
If making a trip to Lebanon to visit the ruins of Baalbek sounds too hardcore for you but you still want to travel to the Middle East, perhaps you should consider visiting Jerash, another of the greatest Roman ruins outside of Italy, constructed in some of the most fertile valleys in the region, today comprising green, rolling hills filled with olive and fig trees.
The location, therefore, is not a coincidence because, when it was built around 2,000 years ago, the Romans wanted to make it a great city due to the richness of the land.
Jerash, one of the finest Roman ruins to travel in the Middle East
A rocky desert land composed of stunning fiords, cliffs and one of the largest varieties of wildlife in the Middle East, Musandam (often called the Norway of the Middle East) is a piece of territory within the UAE that belongs to Oman.
It’s located north of UAE, projecting into the Strait of Hormuz.
Musandam is a pretty common destination among expats living in Dubai but still, the area remains pretty untouched. Along the coast, you find several beaches only occupied by the local Omanis, who like to gather with their families for barbecues during the weekends. Expect several families to invite you to join them.
In Musandam, you could also rent an abra (a local traditional boat) to sail around the fiords and observe the wildlife. Meeting dolphins is almost guaranteed and, if you are into snorkeling, you can see that the deep and dark waters of Musandam are also home to coral, turtles and manta rays, among other things.
Hebron is the city where the Tomb of the Patriarchs stands, the place where Abraham, Jacob and Isaac are buried.
The Tomb of the Patriarchs is one of the holiest places for both Muslims and Jews.
This means that both religions are sharing an important holy place but, on top of that, Hebron also happens to be the only city in Palestine where Jewish settlements are within the city itself.
In the old part of the city, the local Palestinians have built a fence that serves as a roof to prevent the settlers who live in the upper floors throwing garbage to them.
To add more tension to the conflict, during the holy month of Ramadan in 1994, a Jew entered the Tomb of Patriarchs (in the mosque inside), opened fire and killed 29 Muslims during prayer time.
Since then, the area is strictly controlled and, both Jewish and Muslim prayer areas are strictly separated. Abraham is buried in the middle of the Tomb of the Patriarchs, right between the synagogue and the mosque, so the members of both religions can see his tomb from their prayer room.
If you either want just to relax, eat good food, visit beautiful Christian monasteries or to go hiking, the Kadisha Valley in Lebanon will always be the perfect place for you.
Kadisha means ”holy” and owes this name to the fact that this valley is home to some of the most ancient communities of monastic Christians in the Middle East.
In case you don’t know it, monasticism is a way of life for which the person (in this case the Christian monks) renounces to everything to devote himself completely to spiritual work. The valley is full of natural caves, difficult to access, that once served as places of isolation for the monks living lives devoted to Christ.
Kadisha is a really unique place to visit in the Middle East.
Qadisha Valley, located in the north of the country – Travel to the Middle East
30 – Leptis Magna, first league Roman ruins by the Mediterranean
Leptis Magna was a prominent city in Roman Libya, originally a Phoenician town (7th century BCE) that quickly expanded under the Roman Empire. The ruins are in excellent condition, and the whole complex is huge.
Its particular attraction is that the ruins are built right next to the shore, including the fantastic amphitheater.
Leptis Magna can easily be reached from Tripoli in around two hours, making it the perfect day trip from the capital and a default in all the group expeditions we organize.
Another great place to visit in the Middle East are the Arab Marshes, a wetland ecosystem located in south Iraq, sort of an aquatic landscape located in the Iraqi desert.
It occupies an area of 10,000km2, inhabited by water buffaloes and all sort of animals and plants.
The Marshes are also home to a distinct cultural group: the Marsh Arabs, who populate the different islands, living in their sarifas, a peculiar house entirely made of reed.
The Marshes can be visited from the southern city of Nasiriyah and the best way to experience it is on a boat tour.
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A Marsh Arab
32 – Manama – Drugs and rock & roll
Country – Bahrain
In case you’ve never heard of it, Bahrain is a tiny country (one of tiniest in the world actually) located in the Persian Gulf, between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, and Manama is its capital.
To make it short, Bahrain is the only Arab Gulf Monarchy that has run out of petrol, or at least, can’t rely on the petrol income anymore.
In desperation, looking at alternative ways of gaining income, Bahrain became the party place in the Middle East, where concerning prostitution, alcohol, and parties, in general, are more permissive than in any other Gulf country.
Connected to Saudi Arabia by a bridge, every week, thousands of Saudis cross the border to have fun and enjoy a relative level of freedom.
Besides, this is the only place in the Middle East where I’ve seen two homosexuals making out in the middle of the street.
Manama is also home to many Western expats, who hang out in a popular area called Adliya, which has plenty of bars and wall paintings and makes one forget that he or she is in the Middle East.
Bahrain is, unequivocally, one of the most surreal places to travel and visit in the Middle East.
A particular wall painting in Bahrain – Best places to visit in the middle east
Established on the shore of the great Nile river and surrounded by both mango plantations and desert, Luxor is the world’s greatest open-air museum.
This is the place where the most well-known pharaohs come from, like Tutankhamun for example, and most of the temples are either in excellent conditions or perfectly restored.
From large and epic tombs to temples constructed on a giant scale, all of them dating from between 3,200 B.C. and 1,500 B.C, Luxor is an unmissable place to travel in the Middle East.
Not so long ago, the Roman ruins of Palmyra used to receive hundreds of thousands of tourists every year.
Dating back to the second millennium BC, it has been inhabited for more than 4,000 years before becoming part of the Roman Empire during the first century AD.
It used to be an important trade caravan route and its wealth allowed them to build monuments such as the Temple of Bel and the Great Colonnade.
Nowadays, the city of Palmyra is a ghost town, a direct consequence of the battle against ISIS but the archaeological area has re-opened for tourists, always escorted by a member of the Syrian Army.
The Temple of Bell is practically all ruins but Palmyra is a big complex and many of its marvels are still standing.
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The remains of the Temple of bEL
35 – Salalah – Coconuts, pineapples, and tropical rain
What if I tell you that there’s a place in the Persian Gulf where it rains, which it’s full of green meadows and the locals sell coconuts and pineapples?
This place is called Salalah, a city found in the most southern part of Oman, very close to the Yemeni border.
Salalah, and the region of Dhofar, is an area that experiences a monsoon season.
This season is called Khareef and occurs from July till September. During this season, Salalah becomes a beautiful and lush green, which attracts visitors from all over the country, as well as Saudi Arabia and UAE, who want to run away from their disgustingly hot and humid weather.
However, unless you are an ardent Christian, the most interesting part of Bethlehem is to get a close feeling of the consequences of the Israeli occupation as, after the Second Intifada, in 2001, Israel built an 8-meter wall that would finally isolate the West Bank from Israel.
The wall, however, was built within Palestinian territory, hence the Israelis stole some of their land.
Literally, it passes by the center of the city and it is decorated with plenty of Pro-Palestinian paintings, including a real work from the famous Banksy, the white pigeon.
The Dragon Blood Tree is a tree native to Socotra (Yemen), named its blood-like sap. It’s also the national symbol of Socotra.
In the heart of Socotra island, you find Hutan Dara, a forest home to thousands of these trees, truly the one of the most magical places in all of Yemen and the Middle East.
Wild camping in Huta Dara is allowed and perfectly possible.
Located in the Persian Gulf, right in the Strait of Hormuz, between Oman and Iran, Qeshm is an island with amazing geological formations, as well as very rich wildlife.
This is what most travelers come here for but, in my opinion, the most interesting part of the island is to get immersed in the local culture, as this is the only place that has been able to preserve the fast-disappearing Persian Gulf culture, today only visible here and in a few other places in Oman.
Unlike the rest of Iran, people here are Sunnis, from the conservative branch actually, Wahabis, but, since they have a great Iranian influence, they are quite laid back.
Qeshm is a different world from the rest of Iran and it can be seen not only in the religion, the architecture and their food, which is mainly based on seafood but also in the way their women dress, in such colorful abayas and niqabs, like nowhere else you have ever seen.
The Wadi Rum is a beautiful, red-sand-dune desert that stretches across Jordan and north of Saudi Arabia too, in the region of Tabouk.
However, while in Jordan, Wadi Rum has become an extremely touristic place, on the Saudi side, the Saudi Bedouins living there are still genuine and authentic, allowing you to live witness what traditional life is like in Saudi.
Amazing rock formations and camel farms, all without a single tourist around.
That was my list of the best places to travel in the Middle East for next year. Have you been to any? If you have more recommendations or suggestions, feel free to post them in the comments section!
These South Australia road trips showcase natural wonders and rugged beauty, whether you want a day trip or a week-long adventure.
South Australia is seriously underrated when it comes to road tripping.
Compared to the East Coast, the West Coast, or even the Great Ocean Road down in Victoria, South Australia is often overlooked when it comes to coastal road trips.
But South Australia has so much to offer for those looking to explore by car. With dramatic coastlines, world-class wine regions, rugged outback landscapes, and white sandy beaches, South Australian road trips showcase the best of Australia.
Here are some amazing road trip routes to consider for your trip to South Australia.
Whether you want a quick road trip to be done in a few days, or a massive expedition around the mountains, these routes are packed with adventure and beauty.
We will also mention some interstate road trips for those with more time to spare. Road tripping from one Australian city or state to another is the perfect way to slow travel and see more Down Under.
Here are some of the best South Australian road trips.
Whether you want to stay in a historic town surrounded by vineyards or camp under the vast Outback stars in a national park, South Australia has a variety of landscapes and cultures that you can explore on a road trip.
Most travellers who visit South Australia will start their trip in Adelaide. Here you can pick up a rental car and explore South Australia at your own pace.
If you’re starting a road trip outside Adelaide, you should still be able to find car hire if the town is big enough.
With stunning scenery, rich Aboriginal culture, sprawling national parks, white sandy beaches, rolling hills, native wildlife, and more, any road trip through the state is sure to impress.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
Kangaroo Island
Recommended time frame: 3-5 days
Recommended route: Cape Jervis, Penneshaw, Kingscote, Flinders Chase National Park, Vivonne Bay, return to Cape Jervis
A road trip around Kangaroo Island is the ultimate escape into nature, where raw coastal beauty meets abundant wildlife and rustic charm.
Start with a ferry ride from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw, the second-biggest town on Kangaroo Island.
Then head west through rolling farmland and eucalyptus forests toward Kingscote, the island’s main town and a good spot to stock up on supplies or spend the night.
Nearby, you can meet sea lions at Seal Bay Conservation Park, stroll among the wildlife at Hanson Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, or sample local honey and spirits from boutique producers.
If you want a break from driving, book a coastal safari or a dolphin, seal and swimming boat tour to get the best views of the rugged coastline and spot marine life around Kangaroo Island! Or hit the beach at the beautiful Stokes Bay.
The western end of Kangaroo Island is home to Flinders Chase National Park. This majestic area has dramatic rock formations like the sculptural Remarkable Rocks and the wave-carved Admirals Arch.
On your return loop back to the mainland, stop in Vivonne Bay for a swim, admire the sand dunes at Little Sahara, and stop in at the artisan producers around American River.
With 3–5 days, you can circle Kangaroo Island at a relaxed pace and see more than you would on a day trip.
Fleurieu Peninsula
Recommended time frame: 3-5 days
Recommended route: Adelaide, McLaren Vale, Victor Harbor, Deep Creek, Cape Jervis
Another one of the best South Australia road trips is the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula. With a mix of coastal scenery, food and wine, and relaxed countryside charm, it’s the perfect road trip for those with just a few days to spare from Adelaide.
Start your journey heading south to McLaren Vale, where rolling vineyards meet the sea. Here, you can spend wine tasting, dining at cellar door restaurants, cycling the Shiraz Trail, to soaking up the sun at Aldinga Beach.
As you continue toward the coast, the drive opens up to stunning beach views and quiet bays. Stop at Port Willunga for sunset over the famous beach pylons or enjoy a seafood lunch in the vibrant town of Aldinga.
From there, cruise further south to Victor Harbor, a seaside town known for its horse-drawn tram to Granite Island and excellent whale watching in winter.
To fully appreciate the beauty of the Victor Harbor coastline, get out on the water! Join a Seal Island cruise or a Southern Ocean adventure cruise to spot dolphins, seals, sea lions, and more marine life along the Fleurieu Peninsula.
For something wilder, head toward Deep Creek National Park. This rugged coastal reserve has hiking trails, waterfalls, and secluded campsites that are a perfect addition to any South Australian road trips!
End your loop at Cape Jervis, where you can take the ferry to Kangaroo Island or head back to Adelaide.
Coastal views in Victor Harbor
Flinders Ranges
Recommended time frame: 3-7 days
Recommended route: Port Augusta, Mount Little Station, Brachina Gorge, Wilpena Pound, Arkaroola
The Flinders Ranges are a rugged, timeless landscape rich in Aboriginal culture, geology, and wildlife.
Start the road trip in Port Augusta, a historic outback hub that acts as the gateway to both the Flinders Ranges and the Nullarbor.
One of the first epic places to stop once you enter the national park is Mount Little Station, where you can go camping, hiking, stargazing, and 4WDing.
Then take on the Moralana Scenic Drive, which runs from the Outback Highway to the Flinders Ranges Way. The route is about 30km and has some spectacular views, specifically of the southern edge of Wilpena Pound.
Head north up to Brachina Gorge via Bunyeroo Road, which has more spectacular lookouts of the Flinders Ranges mountains. Razorback Lookout and Bunyeroo Valley Lookout are one of the best viewpoints to visit!
Past Brachina Gorge, there are lots of wilderness campsites where you can spend the night under the Outback stars.
For those with a 4WD and a thirst for exploration, continue deeper into the ranges toward Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in the northern Flinders. This remote, rocky outcrop is known for its rugged 4WD tracks, rich Indigenous heritage, and world-class stargazing in some of the darkest skies in Australia.
When you’re ready to drive back south towards civilization, take the Flinders Ranges way and stop at more Outback stations, historic homesteads, and hiking trails.
End your epic South Australia road trip around the mountains with a visit to Wilpena Pound, a massive natural amphitheatre ideal for hiking, scenic flights, or photography.
Driving through the Flingers Ranges is a treat!
Adelaide Wine Country
Recommended time frame: 1-4 days
Recommended route: Adelaide, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley
A road trip through the Barossa and Clare Valleys is a dream for wine lovers, foodies, and anyone who enjoys rolling countryside and charming heritage towns.
This is one of the few South Australia road trips on this list that can be done in one day! Though we recommend taking a few days to enjoy both wine regions fully before returning to Adelaide.
Start with a road trip from Adelaide to the Barossa Valley, which is only an hour. Spend your days sipping at iconic wineries like Penfolds, Seppeltsfield, and Yalumba, or discover smaller cellar doors tucked among the gum trees.
From the Barossa, continue north through picturesque farmland to reach the Clare Valley, a smaller but equally charming wine region known for its relaxed, historic town vibe.
One of the best ways to explore is by cycling the Riesling Trail, a 35 km path that winds through vineyards, cellar doors, and old railway stations between the towns of Clare, Sevenhill, and Auburn.
Don’t miss a visit to the historic Sevenhill Cellars, established by Jesuit priests in 1851, or a long lunch at one of the valley’s many gourmet pubs and winery restaurants.
Recommended route: Port Augusta, Whyalla, Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay, Elliston, Baird Bay, Ceduna
The Eyre Peninsula is an amazing South Australia road trip. It’s known for thrilling wildlife encounters, pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back fishing towns. The Eyre Peninsula has even earned the nickname, “The Seafood Frontier”!
Starting from Port Augusta, you’ll head west toward Whyalla, where you can snorkel or dive with giant cuttlefish in the crystal-clear waters.
Continue south to Port Lincoln, known as the seafood capital of Australia. Here you can feast on freshly caught tuna, prawns, and oysters, or go full-throttle with once-in-a-lifetime experiences like cage diving with great white sharks or swimming with playful sea lions.
Or enjoy some land experiences like a 4WD tour across the sand dunes of Lincoln National Park at sunset, or an Aboriginal cultural tour.
Just west of Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay is another highlight of the Eyre Peninsula. Spend at least a full day in Coffin Bay, where you can explore stunning national park beaches and join an oyster farm boat tour to learn about the Seafood Frontier.
Coffin Bay National Park is a coastal wilderness of white sand dunes, turquoise waters, and rugged limestone cliffs, perfect for 4WD adventures, water sports, secluded beach hikes, and spotting kangaroos by the sea.
Next, road trip along the stunning west coast of the Eyre Peninsula through coastal gems like Elliston, Baird Bay, and Streaky Bay, where towering cliffs and blowholes meet secluded beaches and iconic surf breaks.
Don’t miss the Talia Caves, naturally carved sandstone formations perfect for a quick hike and photo stop. Finish your loop in Ceduna, a quiet coastal town that serves as the launch point for the Nullarbor if you’re continuing west.
Nullarbour Plain
Recommended time frame: 3-10 days, depending on how far you want to go
Recommended route: Ceduna, Nullarbor Roadhouse, Head of Bight, Bunda Cliffs, Eucla, then head west to Perth or south to Esperance
The Nullarbor Plain is an iconic South Australia road trip. This vast, remote adventure crosses the world’s largest limestone plain for roughly 1,200 km from Ceduna in South Australia to Norseman in Western Australia.
While this road trip isn’t packed with cool sights like some of the coastal drives, this route gives you a true sense of the isolation and desert scenery of the Australian Outback.
Start your drive in Ceduna, South Australia and head west. Along the way, you’ll drive the famous “90 Mile Straight,” Australia’s longest straight stretch of road.
Other highlights you’ll see on the way include Penong’s giant windmills and the Nullarbor Roadhouse. Next, visit the Head of Bight for spectacular whale watching in winter, and don’t miss the dramatic seaside cliffs of the Bunda Cliffs!
As you cross the border into Western Australia near Border Village, remember to ditch any fruit and veg (strict biosecurity rules apply), and stop at the windswept, sand-covered ruins of the old Eucla Telegraph Station.
Recommended route: Mount Gambier, Robe, Coorong National Park, Goolwa, Cape Jervis, Adelaide
The stunning Southern Ocean Drive is another top option for a South Australia road trip. Starting at the border of South Australia and Victoria, this gorgeous coastal route follows the Southern Ocean all the way up to Adelaide.
You can combine this road trip with our routes for Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula! Or add on the Great Ocean Road and drive all the way to Melbourne! There are many ways to tackle this road trip.
Most people start the Southern Ocean Drive in Mount Gambier on the Limestone Coast, where you can explore the stunning Blue Lake, Umpherston Sinkhole, and Engelbrecht Cave.
Then stop in Robe, one of the most picturesque seaside towns in South Australia. Relax at Long Beach, take the scenic Obelisk Walk, and grab lunch at a local seafood spot. Wine lovers can stop at Cape Jaffa Wines or Robe Town Brewery for a drink with a view.
Next you’ll road trip along the Coorong, a stunning chain of saltwater lagoons and wetlands known for birdwatching, Aboriginal heritage, and shifting sand dunes.
Stop at the Coorong National Park Visitor Centre, or walk the Loop Road boardwalk trail to see the dunes up close.
Further along the south coast, stop in Goolwa, a charming riverside town at the mouth of the Murray River. You’ll pass even more laid-back surf towns like Normanville, Port Elliot, and Middleton before reaching Cape Jervis.
From here, either take a detour to explore Kangaroo Island or head north along the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula towards Adelaide.
Recommended route: Adelaide, Hahndorf, Mount Lofty, Stirling
For a convenient road trip near Adelaide that you can do in a day, explore Adelaide Hills!
With cool-climate wines, lush forests, charming villages, and artisanal food, you can explore all of this in a day or stretch it out into an overnight stay.
Start your journey by heading straight to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest German settlement, where you can stroll along the historic main street filled with bakeries, leather shops, galleries, and German pubs.
If you have time, swing by Beerenberg Farm for seasonal fruit picking or visit The Cedars, the former home and studio of artist Sir Hans Heysen.
After soaking up the village charm, continue to Mount Lofty Summit for sweeping views over Adelaide, and if you’re feeling active, go for a walk in nearby Cleland Conservation Park or meet native animals at Cleland Wildlife Park.
From there, cruise down to Stirling, a leafy, garden-filled town with quaint bookshops, cafes, and gift stores. Enjoy lunch at The Stirling Hotel or pack a picnic for the peaceful Woorabinda Lake Reserve.
If you plan to stay overnight, the surrounding villages like Crafers, Aldgate, or Bridgewater offer cozy B&Bs, boutique retreats, and romantic cottages.
If you’re a real foodie, we also recommend touring Adelaide Central Market before or after your road trip to Adelaide Hills!
Coober Pedy
Recommended time frame: 5-10 days
Recommended route: Adelaide, Port Augusta, Lake Hart, Coober Pedy, Breakaways Reserve
If you want to experience Australia’s wild interior, try an Outback road trip from Adelaide to Coober Pedy!
Heading north along the Stuart Highway, the scenery changes from fertile farmland around Port Augusta to the wide, flat salt lakes and plains of the Outback desert.
Stop at quirky rural towns like Woomera, a historic site for Australia’s space research. Or take a short detour to see the otherworldly shores of Lake Hart, a dazzling salt lake that’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.
Then spend at least a couple of days in Coober Pedy! Known as the “Opal Capital of the World,” Coober Pedy is famous for its mining industry and its underground infrastructure that is made to escape the desert heat.
Then you can either return to Adelaide or continue your Outback adventure! Coober Pedy is right on the way for an Adelaide to Darwin road trip, which is one of the most incredible ways to explore the desert of South Australia, the Red Centre of the Northern Territory, and Australia’s Top End.
If you decide to do the road trip to Darwin after Coober Pedy, don’t miss Uluru, Kings Canyon, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park, and Kakadu National Park.
Driving through the Breakaways near Coober Pedy at sunset
Other Australia road trip ideas
Australia is full of natural beauty, white sand beaches, snow capped mountains, Outback scenery and more. Road trips are an amazing way to explore this vast continent.
Any of these South Australian road trips can be modified or extended to include more of Australia’s highlights. If you have a few weeks or months, you can take on some incredible adventures.
Road trip from Adelaide to the East Coast, where you can drive north and visit iconic locations like Sydney and the Sea Cliff Bridge, Byron Bay, the Gold Coast, Noosa, and the Great Barrier Reef. New South Wales and Queensland both have much to offer!
Or road trip from Adelaide to Perth and head north along the West Coast. Plan your own itinerary in Australia and you’ll be amazed at what you can discover with some car hire and road trip maps!
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The Nenets are an Indigenous people of Arctic Russia, renowned for their nomadic lifestyle and deep connection to reindeer herding in the remote, unforgiving tundra of northern Siberia, in a region named Yamalia.
Despite their isolation, it is now possible for travelers to visit Nenets camps, a rare opportunity to meet a truly nomadic culture, while witnessing one of the rawest travel experiences.
When it’s best to visit the Nenets: winter or summer?
Travelers interested in this particular part of Russia are often not sure about which season is best for going to Yamalia.
The truth is that both seasons offer incredible experiences, but they’re dramatically different. Here are 30 photos that will help you decide which season is best to travel with us to Yamalia.
Remember that we have the following shceuded for Nenets:
In summer, the landscape is more beautiful, with the tundra being green and covered in wildflowers.
Another great advantage is that you are going to see much more reindeers, since in summer, Nenets need to gather them every day for carrying out different types of tasks.
In summer, Nenets often don’t wear their traditional reindeer-made clothes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take amazing photos, plus remember the weather is much more pleasant than the freezing Siberian winter.
However, the main advantage of coming here in summer is that you’ll get to witness the migration, as Nenets families move with their reindeer and sledges every one or two days—a dynamic, ever-changing scene that few outsiders ever get to see.
In winter, the whole tundra is frozen, and temperatures drop down to -20ºc and -40ºc. The tundra isn’t as beautiful as in summer but the weather and snow add an epic touch into it. From a weather perspective, it’s colder and more uncomfortable, but don’t worry, chums (local tents) are warm and cozy.
Nenets wear their traditional, reindeer-made clothes, making them particular photogenic.
In winter, you won’t witness Nenets migration (unless staged) but you will be able to see other activities like ice-fishing, or ice collection for their water.
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The Platinum Card® from American Express is the OG of premium travel cards. Since its launch in the 1980s, it’s always been known for its exclusivity, suite of perks, and stellar customer service.
While it does have the highest fee in the game ($695, See Rates and Fees), it offers a ton of bang for your buck. You’ll more than come out on top if you take advantage of all that this premium card has to offer. It unlocks the most comprehensive lounge access of any card, includes elite hotel status, has tons of travel perks, and offers hefty statement credits.
I personally love this card, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s my review to help you decide if it’s right for you.
What does the card offer?
This card unlocks a ton of lounge access, elite status benefits (enrollment required), travel perks, special hotel discounts, and luxury goods and service credits. Here’s a glance at just some of the benefits:
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership
Earn 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® (on the first $500,000 spent per calendar year)
Earn 5x Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotels booked on American Express Travel
Travel insurance coverage including secondary car rental insurance, trip interruption and cancellation, lost luggage reimbursement
Access to The American Express Global Lounge Collection (for eligible Card Members)
Up to $200 in airline credit (Valid on one qualifying airline that you must choose in advance. Valid on incidentals only, not airfare.)
Up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.)
Up to $199 annual CLEAR® Plus statement credit (covers an annual membership) per calendar year (subject to auto-renewal)
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. (Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.)
Using Your Membership Rewards Points
You’ll earn Membership Rewards points with The Platinum Card® from American Express. These are some of the most valuable transferable points out there, thanks to their impressive suite of travel partners:
Aer Lingus AerClub (1:1 ratio)
Aeromexico Rewards (1:1.6 ratio)
Air Canada Aeroplan (1:1 ratio)
Air France-KLM Flying Blue (1:1 ratio)
ANA Mileage Club (1:1 ratio)
Avianca LifeMiles (1:1 ratio)
British Airways Club (1:1 ratio)
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles (1:1 ratio)
Choice Privileges (1:1 ratio)
Delta SkyMiles (1:1 ratio)
Emirates Skywards (1:1 ratio)
Etihad Guest (1:1 ratio)
HawaiianMiles (1:1 ratio)
Hilton Honors (1:2 ratio)
Iberia Plus (1:1 ratio)
JetBlue TrueBlue (250:200 ratio)
Marriott Bonvoy (1:1 ratio)
Qantas Frequent Flyer (1:1 ratio)
Qatar Airways Privilege Club (1:1 ratio)
Singapore KrisFlyer (1:1 ratio)
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (1:1 ratio)
You can also use your Membership Rewards points to book flights and hotels in the Amex Travel portal. (This isn’t the best use of your points. I’d generally advise against it; it’s always best to transfer your points to travel partners rather than using the card’s travel portal.)
Breaking Down the Amex Platinum’s Credits and Benefits
I love Amex cards for their perks and benefits, and the Amex Platinum comes with over $1,500 worth of them. It’s like a little coupon book. Here’s what you get with the card:
Perks for a Streamlined Airport Experience (Lounge Access, CLEAR Plus, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck) One of my favorite perks of this card is that it offers the most comprehensive lounge access out there, and to some of the best lounges in the game. The Centurion Lounges are stellar, as are the Delta Sky Club lounges. You’ll also get access to the Priority Pass network of over 1,700 lounges around the world.
The Amex Platinum also gets you to the lounge quicker with statement credits that cover services to expedite airport security. You’ll get up to $199 annual CLEAR® Plus statement credit (covers an annual membership) per calendar year (subject to auto-renewal). You’ll also receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®.
Keep in mind that if you’re approved for Global Entry, you’ll also get access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost. So, if you’re traveling internationally, just go with Global Entry. The process is a bit more involved (you have to go for an in-person interview), but it’s worth it.
Airline and Hotel Credits The Platinum Card also offers up to $200 in airline credit, which sounds great at face value but can be a bit of a pain to use. The credit can only be used on one airline, which you must pre-select, and you can only use it for incidentals, not airfare. However, if you regularly check a bag (and don’t already have an airline credit card that offers free baggage as a perk), you’ll use up that $200 in no time. (You can also use it on things like paid seat selection and in-flight food and beverage.)
The card also offers up to $200 back in statement credits on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. These are usually pretty luxurious properties, so you won’t be getting any free hotel stays with this benefit alone. But if you’re looking to splash out with a high-end hotel or resort stay, $200 off is pretty nice.
Plus, the Amex Platinum offers complimentary Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite and Hilton Honors™ Gold Status, which offer extra perks and benefits when staying at these properties.
Lifestyle Statement Credits The “lifestyle” statement credits are where this card can be a bit less useful depending on your spending habits. My favorite of these is the $200 Uber Cash benefit. It’s distributed as $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus you’ll get a bonus of $20 in December after adding your Card to your Uber account.
That said, I do find it a bit annoying that you can only use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. (when you select an Amex Card for your transaction), since I’m often out of the country.
(To receive this benefit, you must have downloaded the latest version of the Uber App and your eligible American Express Platinum Card must be a method of payment on your Uber account. The Amex Benefit may only be used in the United States.)
Other lifestyle credits include up to $50 biannual Saks Fifth Avenue credit and up to $155 Walmart+ Credit when you use your Platinum Card to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership.
You’ll also receive up to $240 Digital Entertainment Credit via up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney+ Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. (This is an easy set and forget if you subscribe to any of these.)
Amex Offers In addition to all those statement credits, you’ll get access to Amex Offers. With these, you can save money or earn bonus points with select retailers. The offers are ever-changing and targeted, meaning you won’t have the same offers as another cardholder. The majority of these offers are “spend X, get Y amount back.”
The Amex Platinum’s Travel Insurance Last but not least, you’ll get great travel insurance with this card. No matter where you’re going, travel insurance is the most important thing to get for your trip. Hopefully, you won’t need to use it, but I know from experience that if you do, you’ll be glad to have it. I’ve had to use it around the world, from Argentina to South Africa to Italy. Each time something has gone wrong on the road, travel insurance has helped me recoup my costs. While I always recommend purchasing a standalone travel insurance policy, many travel cards offer travel insurance as a perk for no additional cost (apart from the card’s annual fee). While I wouldn’t solely rely on the card’s travel insurance, it’s a nice benefit.
Here are the travel protections that the Platinum offers:
Trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $10,000 per person, per trip (on round-trip tickets only, $20,000 per 12 consecutive month period)
Trip delay coverage up to $500 if the delay is six hours or more (on round-trip tickets only, two claims per 12 consecutive-month period)
Emergency evacuation and medical transport coverage: no limit; must be coordinated via the Premium Global Assist Hotline
Cell phone protection up to $800 minus a $50 deductible (two approved claims per 12-month period, and you must have paid your cell phone bill with your card)
Lost luggage coverage up to $3,000 per person
Secondary car rental coverage
Keep in mind that to be eligible for these protections, you have to pay for your trip (or cell phone bill) with your Amex Platinum. Also, always be sure to always read the fine print so that you understand exactly what’s covered!
Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Who is the Amex Platinum for?
The Amex Platinum is best for frequent travelers who’ll use the premium perks, like easier airport experiences and elite status at hotels. If you can also take advantage of a few lifestyle credits, it’s a solid deal. I’d say just run the numbers and see if the value adds up for you. (And read my post on picking a travel card if you need more help.)
As with any rewards card, you should not get this card if you’re already carrying a balance or plan to carry a balance. Interest rates for travel cards are notoriously high and the points just aren’t worth it if you’re paying interest each month.
This card is also not for anyone with poor credit, as you need excellent credit to qualify. (If that’s you, check out the best credit cards for bad credit so you can start improving your score today.)
***
The Amex Platinum isn’t cheap but if you travel often, the perks can easily outweigh the hefty annual fee. From airport lounge access to generous travel credits, it’s a card built for those who live life on the move. If you’re a frequent flyer looking to travel smarter and more comfortably, I think this card is worth it.
Download my free guide to points and miles and learn how to use points and miles for free travel! It’s how all the pros travel so much! In this guide, I’ll show you:
How to Pick a Credit Card
How to Earn Up to 10x Miles on Your Spending
How to Redeem Your Points
And a Ton of Other Money Saving Tips!
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
From culture and coffee to everything trendy and tasty, this Melbourne backpacking guide is your budget-friendly ticket to exploring Australia’s most artistic city.
If backpacking Australia is on your bucket list, Melbourne hits the spot.
How? You might wonder. Not the Australian city notorious for its overpriced lattes and unreliable weather, both of which are no-no’s for the budget-conscious, outdoor-loving backpacker.
But here’s a little not-so-secret. Despite being Australia’s second most expensive city, Melbourne is a gold mine of cut-price offerings if you know where to look.
We’re not only talking about museums galore that the city has gotten so good at, partly due to its unpredictable weather. We mean gorgeous gardens, stunning street art, and breathtaking beaches—all free to explore.
Then, there are the buzzing bars with cheap drinks (yes, they exist!) and wallet-friendly eateries with surprisingly good food. Even cheap shopping.
And if you need some cash to fund your stay in Melbourne, no worries. You can apply for a working holiday visa and earn while travelling.
Add to this the variety of accommodations (including cheap ones), and you’ve got a city with all the ingredients of a backpackers hub.
So, when are you backpacking Melbourne?
It’s possible to explore Melbourne on a budget – check out our top tips!
Melbourne Backpacking Guide
Our complete guide to backpacking Melbourne covers visas, transport, things to do, accommodation, food recommendations, and more!
Before you live your dream of backpacking Australia, you must get a visa before travelling.
The only exception is if you’re a citizen of New Zealand. In such a case, you can get a visa upon arrival.
Visa requirements vary based on your citizenship, length of stay, and whether or not you plan to work. Please checkAustralia’s Home Affairs website for more info.
Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.
Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.
Working Holiday Visa
Not only does this visa allow you to visit Melbourne, but it also lets you travel across Australia while working legally and earning money.
The working holiday visa is open to backpackers aged 18 to 30 (or 35 for some.) You must be a passport holder of one of the eligible countries, such as France, South Korea, Canada, and many more.
With this visa, you can stay in Australia for 12 months. You can extend the visa twice and get an additional 12 months per extension.
Visitor Visa
A visitor visa is for those seeking to enter Australia for tourism, business, or seeing family and friends. It’s open to all countries.
The length of stay varies, ranging from three months to 12 months max.
You can’t work with this visa. However, you may participate in short-term volunteer work or study for up to three months.
eVisitor Visa
This visa allows you to visit Australia multiple times for tourism or business. It’s free, valid for 12 months, and non-extendable. You can stay in Australia for up to three months for each entry.
You must be a passport holder of one of the 50 eligible countries to qualify to apply for an eVisa. The process takes 24 to 48 hours but could be longer.
Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
An ETA is an electronic travel permit that lets citizens of certain countries enter Australia without a traditional visa.
Like the eVisitor visa, the ETA is multiple-entry and valid for 12 months, with stays up to three months per visit.
One of the main differences between the two is the cost. The eVisitor visa is free of charge, while the ETA has a service fee of $20 AUD.
Another is the set of eligible countries. The ETA covers North America, Asia, and some parts of Europe. The eVisitor visa focuses mainly on European countries.
Getting around Melbourne city center and the suburbs is a breeze because of its efficient and well-connected public transport system.
You get a slew of options, from trams and trains to buses and bikes. There are even boats for travelling across the Yarra River or to Port Phillip Bay.
Cash is not accepted. You need aMyki card to pay for most public transport.
Grab one at train stations, 7-Elevens, the airport, vending machines, or online, and you’re all set to explore central Melbourne.
Airport transport
Most international flights head into Tullamarine Airport in Melbourne, though you can often also score a cheap flight into Avalon Airport.
Melbourne offers a range of convenient airport transport options for travelers.
The SkyBus runs from Tullamarine Airport and the city, with a SkyBus Avalon City Express for Avalon Airport.
Public buses are also available, as are most rideshare apps.
Trams
Among the major cities in Australia, Melbourne has the most extensive tram network. During the day, trams run roughly every 10 minutes and 15 minutes in the evening.
Stops, where you board and get off, are well signposted. They also display route numbers, maps, and timetables.
Free tram zone
Did you know you can cruise the Melbourne CBD on a Free City Circle Tram without spending a cent?
Melbourne has a free tram zone. This circuit passes attractions like the Harbour Esplanade, the Docklands, and the Flinders Street Station.
Look for the retro-looking city circle trams. They offer free rides around the city center from 10 am to 9 pm on Thursday to Saturday and 10 am to 6 pm on Sunday to Wednesday.
The trip takes about an hour and comes with an audio commentary about the sights along the routes.
Please note that if you begin or end a journey outside the free zone, you will need your Myki card.
Melbourne has amazing public transport.
Trains
Trains are the swiftest and most practical way to travel long distances across and outside Melbourne. Most routes run from 5 am to midnight, Monday to Thursday. They run all night on weekends.
Flinders Street Railway Station is the hub for travel within the city and nearby suburbs.
The Southern Cross Station services trains arriving and leaving from interstate destinations and other major cities like Adelaide in South Australia and Sydney in New South Wales.
Buses
Buses cover areas trams and trains don’t go. Most operate from 6 am to 9 pm on weekdays. On weekends, trips usually start at 8 am.
Out late on a Saturday? Don’t fuss. Night bus services are available after midnight on weekends. Just wait at a designated stop and hail the bus as it approaches to signal the driver you want to board.
Weekend night network
If you find yourself out after midnight on a weekend, you can catch one of the city’s all-night public transport. It includes metropolitan trains, trams, and late-night buses.
If you’re travelling outside Melbourne, there is a 2 am coach service to some regional areas.
Ferry
Though not the most popular mode of transport, ferries are excellent for sightseeing along the Yarra or travelling to nearby islands.
If you want to escape the bustle of the city, you can take a ferry from mainland Australia to the quieter Phillip Island and even to Tasmania.
Venture to Phillip Island on a day trip from Melbourne!
Taxis/Ride-Sharing Services
These are perhaps your best option if you’re short on time or travelling late on a weekday.
Taxis charge an overnight rate between 10 pm and 5 am. Silver Top and 13 Cabs are two of the top taxi companies in Melbourne.
Ride-sharing services are a bit cheaper. Melbourne has several, with Uber, DiDi, and Shebah being the most popular.
Car Hire/Rentals
We recommend car rentals for long-distance travels, such as a day trip to the Great Ocean Road or the Great Otway National Park.
If you’re backpacking Melbourne, having a car is more of an inconvenience, as parking is expensive and hard to find.
Bike rentals, however, are another story. Melbourne is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Australia, boasting a great cycle lane and several bike-hire outlets.
You can take bikes on trains, though only folding ones are allowed on buses and trams.
E-scooters are an alternative to bikes for exploring the city centre and nearby neighborhoods.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
What To Do – Backpacking in Melbourne on a Budget
Backpacking through Melbourne without draining your wallet is definitely doable and wholly worth it.
There are the electrifying urban vibes, street art that dazzles, and the natural beauty of green spaces that will energize you. And they’re all free to explore!
First stop is Hosier Lane, the city’s most artistic laneway, with its swirling array of colours. The street art and graffiti are free to see, which lures dozens of art lovers and curious tourists.
To top it, the walls are also free to paint. (We recommend you check the requirements at theCity of Melbourne website before bringing your paintbrush.)
What’s unique about the Hosier is the artwork is ever-evolving as graffiti artists create new pieces and paint over old ones.
The lane is a short walk, but if you want to take a break or grab some drinks, you will find cafes, bars, and restaurants lining the street.
Other spots to see street art in Melbourne are AC/DC Lane, famous for its rock ‘n roll tributes; Meyers Place, sprinkled with hidden sculptures; and Yarra Place, with its elegant and commissioned murals.
If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, there are free guided walks along Melbourne’s laneways to see the street art.
Melbourne is filled with amazing street art.
Go museum hopping
Melbourne is not Australia’s cultural capital for nothing. A testament to this is the city’s wealth of museums.
Pick your style. Melbourne has you covered. And you don’t have to shell out a dime to enjoy some of the most impressive collections in the Southern Hemisphere.
National Gallery of Victoria
Opened in 1968, the National Gallery of Victoria has two galleries offering free entry to its main collections. The galleries have over 70,000 artworks from Asia, Europe, Oceania, and the Americas.
Occasionally, the museum hosts talks, tours, films, and late-night openings. Though NGV is generally free, some special exhibits and events require a ticket.
Australian Centre for the Moving Image
A mecca for movie lovers, ACMI is a whole universe of films, digital art, television, and everything to do with screen culture.
In this interactive Melbourne museum, you’ll hear the origin stories, explore the technologies, and learn about the artists who contributed to the development of motion pictures around the globe.
While entry to ACMI is free, some exhibitions and special film screenings may require a ticket.
City Gallery
A hidden gem tucked in the City Hall, the City Gallery is a treasure chest of 8000 artworks and artefacts about city life.
If you want a glimpse of Melbourne’s past and present, the gallery is a great place to start your discovery.
Those are just three of the top museums in Melbourne. There’s more to see, including the Australian Music Vault, Science Gallery Melbourne, Australian Centre for Contemporary Art, and the Victoria Police Museum.
For a city studded with skyscrapers (over 77, in fact), Melbourne has a lot of green spaces. It’s the polar opposite of a concrete jungle, with parks and gardens scattered throughout.
Royal Botanic Gardens
A serene oasis in the middle of bustling Melbourne, the Royal Botanic Gardens covers 38-hectares of woodlands, lakes, and about 50,000 plants from 8,500 species displayed in 30 collections.
Join the 1.5-hour free guided walking tour to learn about the garden’s diverse flora.
The Royal Botanic Gardens is free, except for special events and areas like the National Orchid Garden.
Escape to the greenery of the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Fitzroy Gardens
The Fitzroy Gardens are not only famous for their flora, but also for their history and architecture.
Throughout the park are historical structures, including Cooks’ Cottage, the Band Pavilion, and the Spanish mission-style Conservatory.
Other top attractions in Fitzroy are the Scarred Tree, and a miniature model of a Tudor village. It’s a highlight for any backpacker when you explore Melbourne!
Abbotsford Convent and Heritage Gardens
Abbotsford is mainly known for its 19th-century buildings, but the gardens are easily a show-stealer. It’s the perfect shady spot for picnics, strolls, and relaxation.
Formerly an orphanage and an age-care facility, the convent now houses art studios, cafes, galleries, a school, and a radio station. It also hosts several events, including workshops, markets, music festivals, and exhibitions.
Other gardens to check out are the Chelsea Australian Garden and the Carlton Gardens, home to the UNESCO-listed Royal Exhibition Building.
Bask in the Beach
From the sweeping stretches of Ninety Mile Beach to the massive riffs of Bells Beach, Melbourne is a pro when it comes to sand, surf, and sun.
If you want a beach closer to the city centre, St Kilda (6 km from the CBD) is a lovely place to swim and sun bake.
Stroll along the St Kilda pier at sunset, and you might see a colony of the popular Australian penguins. For an adrenaline rush, try the hair-raising rides at Luna Park, the oldest amusement park in Australia.
And if you’re wondering where to find those rainbow beach huts you saw on a poster at the airport, they’re on Brighton Beach, just nine minutes from St Kilda.
With over 600 stalls selling anything from fresh fruits and locally-produced dairy to clothes and hand-crafted souvenirs, Queen Victoria Market is an experience, not just a destination.
For many foodies, gastronomic adventures are the chief reason for visiting markets. If you feel the same, consider joining a market food tour.
Other markets to visit are South Melbourne Market, Prahran Market, and Grazeland.
People watch at the Federation Square
Across the Flinders Street Station, Federation Square is the pulsating heart of Melbourne. Almost all free walking tours and city excursions start here, thanks to the square’s proximity to many attractions.
With its live music, exhibits, outdoor screenings, and pedestrians rushing about, the square isn’t for those seeking quiet. Still, it’s a charming hangout for a sundowner or a nightcap as you watch people go by.
Check out Federation Square in the heart of Melbourne!
Top 5 things to splurge on in Melbourne Australia
Just because you’re on a backpacker budget doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to something nice. When in Melbourne, some things are just worth splurging on.
Cheer for Your Team at The G
Melbournians love their cricket, and one of the best venues to see a thrilling match is the Melbourne Cricket Ground, also fondly referred to by the locals as The G.
Not a cricket fan? Perhaps you can score a ticket for one of the games in the Australian Rules Football League instead.
But game or no game, the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a fascinating place to explore on a guided tour. It’s, after all, Australia’s favourite stadium and comes with a sporting museum to boot.
Skydeck at the Eureka Tower
On the 88th floor of the Eureka Tower is the Melbourne Skydeck, Australia’s tallest viewing deck.
Suspended from the Skydeck is the Edge, a glass cube 300 metres above the streets of Melbourne. With the Edge Experience, you can step inside and take in incredible views of Melbourne and beyond.
Looking for something more thrilling? Try the Melbourne Skydeck Voyager. This state-of-the-art VR technology features 6-D pod chairs that will take you soaring over iconic destinations in Victoria.
Seeing Melbourne bathed in the golden hues of sunrise is surreal. But imagine doing it hundreds of feet above the ground on a hot air balloon.
If you want something unique to brag about when you get home, an hour-long balloon flight over Melbourne is it. After all, no other major city in the world allows commercial hot air balloons to fly over their CBD.
As if drifting over the city isn’t exciting enough, not knowing where you’ll travel and land makes the journey even more thrilling. Balloon flights in Melbourne depend on the day’s wind conditions, so your route is always a surprise.
Alternative: Afraid of heights or hate dragging yourself out of bed at dawn? You can view Melbourne from the water on a Yarra River cruise.
The Regent Theatre has endured a lot since it opened in 1929 as a picture palace. Think flood, fire, threats of being turned into a carpark, and two decades of closure.
Fast forward to today, the theatre hasn’t only earned a spot in the National Trust of Australia. It has also maintained its reputation as the premier venue for blockbuster stage productions, from musicals to operas and ballet.
Alternative:More into indie performing arts? You might find your perfect fit at the La Mama Theatre, Fortyfivedownstairs, or Red Stitch Actors Theatre. If you prefer Hollywood classics in a single-screen cinema, check out The Astor.
Day Trip to the Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley, Victoria’s most popular wine region, is just half an hour from Melbourne. The best way to explore this stunning countryside is, of course, on a wine tour.
But there’s more to the valley than its world-class wineries and vast vineyards. Go on a steam train ride and search for wildlife if you’re looking for a bit of adventure.
If it’s gorgeous scenery you’re after, try horseback riding across the rolling countryside.
Be sure not to skip the free tastings at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.
Alternative: Want to see Victoria’s scenic coast instead? Plan a day trip on the Great Ocean Road. You’ll find some of the country’s most iconic natural wonders along the way, including the 12 Apostles National Park.
Explore the countryside of the beautiful Yarra Valley.
The Best Backpacker Accommodation in Melbourne
Yes, you can backpack and visit Melbourne without blowing your whole travel budget on a bed. The city has plenty of budget-friendly stays where you can save money, cook your own food, and sleep in style.
Private hostel room? Lively dorm? We’ve lined up our top picks.
Nomads St Kilda
If you’re looking for a place that’s not smack in the middle of Melbourne’s bustle but is only a quick tram ride from the CBD, Nomads might be the right match.
But don’t expect it to be far away from the action. After all, it’s only a five-minute walk to the beach and buzzing Acland St.
At the hostel, you can pick a shared room or private unit. There’s also a pool, a free city walking tour, and a bar that hosts nightly events. So, silent disco, anyone?
Space Hotel
Luxury meets budget–that is Space Hotel‘s promise. Nestled in the heart of Melbourne, this hostel offers spacious, modern, and comfy private and shared rooms.
Facilities include a gym, lounge, games space, and a cinema.
Bounce Melbourne
The award-winning Bounce Hostel is right across from Flinders Street Station, just a short hike to Melbourne’s epic laneways. It means you’re at the core of Melbourne’s nightlife, food scene, and culture.
Room options include dorms, private, and family. You’ll have access to a bar, restaurant, lounge, and laundry facilities. There’s also internet, luggage storage, and a city tour, all for free.
Cheap Places To Eat in Melbourne
Melbourne is a foodie playground, even on a backpacker budget. While you can save money if you whip up your own meals, it wouldn’t hurt your wallet to eat out occasionally.
Here’s where you can score some cheap eats (no, not fast food) without sacrificing flavor.
Queen Victoria Market is the place to be!
Queen Victoria Market
Grab fresh deli snacks, hot jam donuts, and fresh fruits. If you visit Melbourne between April and May, you might experience the Hawker 88 Night Market and its array of street food.
Food trucks
You’ll find these rolling flavor bombs all over the city, especially around places like the Welcome to Thornbury food truck park in Northcote.
Plus, you can buy from mobile caterers like El Chivi Food Truck, known for their mouthwatering Uruguayan steak sandwiches.
CBD
Yes, the CBD. You’ll be surprised how many affordable options there are in the alleys of the city centre.
Chinatown is always a hit among budget-conscious backpackers and students. Swanston Street and Elizabeth Street also have a lot of budget-friendly Asian restaurants. Banh mi, ramen, Korean BBQ bowls–you name it.
For vegetarian or vegan options, Crossways, on Swanston St, offer tasty and affordable plant-based meal combos.
Good to Know: Look for lunch specials. Many restaurants around the city offer discounted midday meals.
There you have it, the ultimate guide to backpacking in Melbourne. Hope this helps you plan your trip. And if we missed anything, let us know in the comments.
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Wanna travel to Pakistan with Against the Compass?
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Pakistan:
September 14th to 27th, 2025
Pakistan is in fashion.
Backpackers and travelers alike from around the world are realizing that Pakistan is not only a beautiful country, but it can offer some of the most ultimate adventures.
Despite this recent massive increase in popularity, however, Pakistan is still miles away from being a proper tourist destination and proof of that is that still today, some people can only relate Pakistan to negative things, such as terrorist attacks, Taliban activities and Islamic radicalism.
I partly attribute these negative associations to the Westen media, which has done nothing but portray the worst face of Pakistan, especially since the 9/11 attacks.
That’s why, in this post, I wanted to show you 60 photos of Pakistan that you won’t see in the news, because Pakistan is simply awesome.
60 Photos of Pakistan that you won’t see in the news
Pakistan is the only country home to the 4 highest mountain ranges on Earth, including the Himalayas, the Karakorum, the Pamirs and the Hindu Kush.
In fact, the second-highest mountain in the world is found in Pakistan, K2 (8,611meters) and it belongs to the Karakoram range.
Besides those internationally famous mountains, Pakistan is also home to several dreamy valleys and which you don’t want to miss. I spent 2 months backpacking in Pakistan, and spent most of this time in the mountains. Here are some of my favorite pics.
Rakaposhi base camp, camping at around 3500 meters above sea level, right next to a giant ice wall, from where we could hear the continuous sound of avalanchesSame place as the previous photo, but from over a ridge, at the bottom of mount Rakaposhi (7,778 meters)Here we are at Nanga Parbat base camp. Absolutely mind-blowingThis is also Nanga Parbat (8,100 meters) a couple of kilometers before the base campThis is the village of GulmitIn Pakistan, we walked over glaciers full of crevasses, the first time in my lifeThese are the kind of glaciers we walked through. The man in the photo is a local Pakistani mountain guideClimbing a glacier with some Thai friendsWith some friends in Yezyl, one of the most beautiful glaciers in Pakistan, in Shimshal ValleyMore pictures of Yezyl glacier in ShimshalThis is Passu suspension bridgePakistan, however, is also home to beautiful lush green valleys. This is Swat, in Kalam districtMore pictures of Passu peaksSame place, Kalam, in Swat. The region of Swat has big similarities to Switzerland. This is one of my most favorite pictures.
This picture was taken on the hike from Hussaini to Passu suspension bridge
The hike to Borith lake
Hanging out in a hotel in Swat. It looks like a dreamy hotel, and it really was but seriously, it was just a very basic shack in the middle of the mountainsIn Swat, you find some of the most beautiful forests in the countryRocking my salwar kameez, somewhere in the Swat ValleyBeautiful Swat Valley 🙂Somewhere in the Astore Valley. With some local, Pakistani friends, we went for a long fishing weekendThe Astore Valleys sits on the other side of Nanga ParbatAnd it links to Pakistani Kashmir, which you will reach if you follow this trailWhat I loved about the Astore Valley is that you get pretty damn amazing views but also, those mountains are filled with tiny villages, so you get in touch with the local culture as well Enjoying my time in a local village in Astore ValleyDuring the day, my Pakistani friends spent all day fishing. I spent some time fishing with them in the morning but then, I was exploring the surroundings just by myselfEpic views in the Astore ValleyLooking over Astore Valley. I really love this picture I absolutely love these human encounters. Those moments make me feel very happy when I am travelingOr this oneI mean, isn’t that beautiful? Being able to explore those striking mountains and, at the same time, being the only tourist in a place full of hospitable, kind-hearted localsCheck out this tiny settlementExploring the Astore Valley was perhaps, my best experience in Pakistan
Pakistan is also famous for the Karakoram Highway, one of the highest paved roads in the world that links Islamabad with Kashgar ( China), and also goes over Khunjerab Pass, one of the highest border crossings in the world, around 4,600 meters.
The Karakoram HighwayFrom the Karakoram Highway, you get to see bridges like this oneThe views from across the previous bridgeOr these mountains, perfectly visible from the window of your carTraffic jam in the Karakoram Highway. And you will be able to see plenty of Pakistani trucksThe main town in the northern part of the Karakoram Highway is Karimabad, inhabited by the Hunza people (an ethnic group who practice a very moderate branch of Islam) and home to Baltit fortSame, but a different perspectiveMore photos of the Karakoram HighwayAnd moreThis isn’t the Karakoram Highway but it is a crazy side road that leads to Fairy Meadows, close to Nanga Parbat base camp. The beginning of this road is at a junction in the Karakoram Highway
But Pakistan is not only about landscapes, but also beautiful people who will be continuously blessing you with their hospitality, and the thing you will always remember the most when you get back home, are the interactions with the local people.
Expect, literally, hundreds of house, lunch, dinner and tea invitations.
Local Pashtuns, in PeshawarThese guys are just fucking awesomeThe people here are truly authenticAnd street photography opportunities are greatYou not only get to see the Himalayas but also camels and beach!I met these 2 guys in Astore ValleyAnd the cultural diversity is also great. This is a Kalash woman, an ethnic group from northwestern Pakistan with traditional, pagan beliefsAnd this Hollywood-actor looking man is from a very remote Pakistani village, right across the Afghan border
And then, of course, you get all mosques and shrines Pakistan is famous for. You may already know it from the news, of course, but, did you know they were so beautiful?
This is Bdashi mosque, the most impressive mosque in LahoreAnd then you have this Sufi shrine in Multan. Sufism is the mystical branch of IslamAnd the second most important mosque in Lahore, Wazir KhanThis isn’t a famous mosque but I like it. You can find it in ChitralThis photo might be more similar to what you have seen in the news but still, it’s fucking awesome
More information for visiting Pakistan
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
Many of these remote locations, for one reason or another, happen to be in countries ruled by controversial regimes, usually not particularly good friends with the West.
As a result, we are often facing criticism, with some accusing us of supporting those governments simply by traveling there.
This article explains why there’s nothing inherently wrong with visiting such countries — and why, as long as you’re a conscious and respectful traveler, you should feel free to explore the world without self-censorship.
You shouldn’t be selective with your principles, double standards aren’t good
Fact: The countries typically not accepted to travel are shaped by geopolitics, rather than ethics.
Today, Russia is arguably the country that faces the greatest stigma as a travel destination.
After our recent trips to the North Caucasus republics and Siberia, I received more messages than ever — not about the places themselves, but about the supposed controversy of traveling to what many now see as the West’s number-one enemy.
Some people were polite, expressing disagreement while still respecting my decision. Others, however, were openly hostile.
What I find interesting is that some of the most vocal critics were the same travelers who have always been keen to travel to Syria, or who already traveled there after 2019.
Former Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad murdered hundreds of thousands of people, while forcing millions to flee the country. His brutal repression originated into a conflict which has not ended yet, since there are still war zones where people live under constant threat.
So if we look purely at the numbers — at the scale of violence, repression, and humanitarian crisis — wouldn’t Syria be an even more ethically difficult destination than Russia?
Why is it OK to visit Turkmenistan, Eritrea and North Korea, the 3 most repressive countries in the world, but it’s not OK to travel to Russia?
We can’t turn a blind eye to what is happening to Ukraine but just because the Russian Government is the biggest strategic rival of the West, doesn’t mean that the lives of Syrians and Afghan women are less worth than Ukrainians’.
If we apply outrage selectively, we’re not standing on principle — we’re just echoing foreign policy and Western media headlines.
Moscow is beautiful, just as it used to be back in 2022
Travel is something personal
Afghanistan is the country in the world where women’s rights are most violated.
Traveling is very personal so, if a certain traveler doesn’t want to travel to Afghanistan because of that, we should respect it because that’s their decision.
Remember that you aren’t traveling there to violate women’s rights further, but to learn, observe, break stereotypes and become wiser.
At the same time, it’s important to stay sensitive to the struggles of the people living under such regimes, and to travel in ways that support them, not their oppressors.
Afghan women in the city of Kandahar, one of the hardest places in the world to live as a woman
It’s not the local people’s fault. Travel to break stereotypes
It’s important to always separate people from Governments.
Leaders like Netanyahu are responsible for military actions in Gaza and yes, he has a large support among Israelis but at the same time, millions oppose his agenda and are horrified by all the violence.
Many Israelis I know feel extremely ashamed of the war in Gaza, just as I’ve met Russians in Moscow who are heartbroken about what’s happening in Ukraine.
Nobody likes war, or to live under sanctions.
Traveling to these countries allows you to get an unbiased perspective of the local’s opinion on the matter, something you’ll never see in the media.
It builds bridges and breaks down stereotypes, which might even work both ways, since it shows locals that not all foreigners are hostile, arrogant, or judgmental.
A nomad woman from the Siberian tundra. What does she have to do with the war in Ukraine-
You actually do more for the country than any armchair activist
An armchair activist refers to the person who likes to express strong opinions about political issues on social media but doesn’t take any action beyond that.
If you travel to countries with controversial regimes and like to post about it on Instagram, you are likely to be the target of an armchair activist, that’s what they do.
As I mentioned in the previous section, don’t let others shame you for your travels, you may actually be contributing more than they realize, as long as you are a responsible traveler, of course.
By backpacking in a country independently, having genuine local interactions, and spending money in local, small businesses, you are engaging more with local humans that most do from their couch.
Keep in mind that this isn’t a self-congratulatory statement.
We are travelers, not activists or humanitarian workers but still, I strongly believe that a responsible traveler leaves a more meaningful footprint than what most people on Instagram believe.
The guy on the left offered me to stay with him when I traveled independently to the Minaret of Jam
Those Governments benefit very little from your travels
Armchair activists tend to argue that no matter how responsibly you travel, part of your money will always end up in the hands of the Government.
Sure, that’s actually true.
During Bashar al-Assad’s regime, for example, the cost of the Syrian visa for Europeans was €70.
That money went directly to an evil Government but, are those €70 making any difference?
In reality, think about it as it was a trade-off.
You pay a €70 visa fee but then, you spend cash €1500 in family-owned hotels, local restaurants, and independent guides, while having genuine human interactions.
No trip is ethically perfect, but a responsible traveler will certainly bring more positive than harm.
Buying xaatar from a locally-owned shop in Aleppo. Buying in these places makes a big difference
Did you ask the local’s opinion?
This doesn’t really apply to places like Russia, but for war-torn countries like Yemen or Syria.
Traveling to Yemen is like slapping on the faces of all the families who have lost someone in the war.
Have you ever asked Yemenis how they feel about foreign visitors?
In my opinion, making such strong statements on behalf of people you have never talked to comes close to colonialism.
There isn’t any tourism industry left in Yemen, locals barely benefit financially from your visit, but there are few countries left in the world where where people are so excited to see a foreigner.
In places like Yemen or Syria, your presence can feel like a sign that the outside world isn’t forgetting them, or even an inflection point that their country is getting better, but that’s something you won’t understand unless you see it with your own eyes.
Yemeni people in Mukallah, the city that has suffered the most in the region of Hadramut
More information
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
Read more blogging articles
Travel guide to countries with controversial regimes
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Over the past nineteen years as a business owner, I’ve used countless business cards. Some have been amazing and elevated both my travel and my business. Others have been…well, lackluster.
One of the best? The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. It comes with a lot of world-class perks and benefits, quality customer care, and a solid rewards structure (especially on large purchases).
While the annual fee is pretty high ($695, pay over time available. See Rates and Fees), for me, the travel benefits, along with all the statement credits, make the card worth carrying. I think it’s a great choice for business owners who travel frequently.
In this breakdown, I’ll detail the card, what you get, and why I like it.
What is the Business Platinum Card® from American Express?
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is a travel rewards card geared towards business owners. (Remember: even side hustles and freelancing count as businesses so you can get this card even without being an LLC.) First, let’s go over some of the best things you get when you sign up, which make it a no brainer to get for the first year:
Limited Time Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Plus, earn a $500 statement credit after you spend $2,500 on qualifying flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel with your Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. You can earn one or both of these offers. Offer ends 6/30/25.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals and prepaid flight + hotel packages booked at AmexTravel.com. 1x points on other eligible purchases.
1.5x points per dollar on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Complimentary access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection®, featuring more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries. Access is limited to eligible Card Members.
Up to $120 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA Pre-check every 4 years.
Up to $199 yearly CLEAR® Plus credit (subject to auto-renewal)
Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline.
Up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties. (Distributed in up to $50 increments per quarter. Hilton for Business program membership is required.)
$150 credit with Adobe on eligible annual prepaid business plan purchases of Adobe Creative Cloud for teams or Adobe Acrobat Pro for teams on the Business Platinum Card through 6/30/25.
Up to $120 per calendar year in statement credits for purchases made directly from any U.S. wireless telephone provider (up to $10 back per month).
Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite status (enrollment required)
Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)
No foreign transaction fees
Using Your Membership Rewards Points
You’ll earn Membership Rewards points with The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Since Amex has a well-rounded suite of travel partners, Membership Rewards points are some of the most valuable points out there.
These are Amex’s current travel partners:
Aer Lingus AerClub (1:1 ratio)
Aeromexico Rewards (1:1.6 ratio)
Air Canada Aeroplan (1:1 ratio)
Air France-KLM Flying Blue (1:1 ratio)
ANA Mileage Club (1:1 ratio)
Avianca LifeMiles (1:1 ratio)
British Airways Club (1:1 ratio)
Cathay Pacific Asia Miles (1:1 ratio)
Choice Privileges (1:1 ratio)
Delta SkyMiles (1:1 ratio)
Emirates Skywards (1:1 ratio)
Etihad Guest (1:1 ratio)
HawaiianMiles (1:1 ratio)
Hilton Honors (1:2 ratio)
Iberia Plus (1:1 ratio)
JetBlue TrueBlue (250:200 ratio)
Marriott Bonvoy (1:1 ratio)
Qantas Frequent Flyer (1:1 ratio)
Qatar Airways Privilege Club (1:1 ratio)
Singapore KrisFlyer (1:1 ratio)
Virgin Atlantic Flying Club (1:1 ratio)
Most transfers are instant, though some can take up to 48 hours.
You can also use your Membership Rewards points to book flights and hotels in the Amex Travel portal. I generally wouldn’t do this though as it’s not the best use of your points. It’s always better to transfer them out to one of their partners. However, you can get 35% points back when you do book via their portal so just compare the points costs between both before making a decision.
Breaking Down the Business Platinum’s Credits and Benefits
Amex cards are well-known for their plethora of perks and benefits. They’re a big reason I love their cards. And, if you can take advantage of all that it has to offer, the Business Platinum boasts over $1,700 worth of value. But, with so many categories and so much fine print, it can be hard to keep track of whether a benefit is actually useful for your spending habits. So, to help you decide if the card is right for you, I want to break down some of the major categories of benefits:
Airport Experience Credits (Lounge Access, CLEAR Plus, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck) One of the best things about this card — and what makes it a standout for frequent travelers — is the unbeatable airport lounge access. You’ll get into some of the top lounges worldwide, including the excellent Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when you’re flying Delta, with up to 10 visits per year).
On top of that, you’ll get complimentary access to the huge Priority Pass network. If having a quiet space to relax, grab a drink, or get some work done is a priority when you travel, this card has you covered pretty much anywhere.
I also appreciate that the Business Platinum helps you get through the airport faster. It offers up to $199 in statement credits each year for a CLEAR® Plus membership, which speeds you through security lines.
You’ll also get a credit for Global Entry (up to $100 every 4 years) or TSA PreCheck (up to $85 every 4.5 years), depending on which one you choose. I personally recommend going for Global Entry. It takes a little more effort (there’s an interview), but it includes TSA PreCheck too. It’ll save you a ton of time if you travel internationally.
Airline and Hotel Credits Another travel-related benefit is the up to $200 airline credit. Unfortunately, it comes with a fair number of restrictions, making this credit a bit more annoying to use. It can only be used on one (pre-selected) airline, and you can only use it for incidentals, not airfare. But if you don’t have an airline credit card that offers free baggage, it can be useful to have. You can also use the credit for airline expenses like paid seat selection or on-board food and drink.
The Business Platinum also offers a few Hilton-related benefits. First, you can receive up to $200 in statement credits at Hilton properties when booked directly. Since these credits are distributed in quarterly $50 increments, you’d have to stay in a Hilton property at least four times a year to get the full value of this credit. But if you’re on the road a lot, that can be easy to do.
Second, the Business Platinum offers complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold Status (as well as Marriott Bonvoy® Gold Elite status), which offer extra perks and benefits when staying at these properties.
Business-Related Statement Credits The Business Platinum card comes with some great perks to help lighten the financial load of running a business. Expenses can really add up if you’re managing a business while traveling, so I appreciate that the Business Platinum helps offset these costs.
You can get up to $400 in statement credits on U.S. Dell purchases (through June 30, 2025, split into $200 chunks every six months). There’s also up to $360 back per year on Indeed ads (up to $90 each quarter), which is great if you’re hiring as your business grows.
If you use Adobe tools, there’s a $150 credit available when you prepay annually for eligible Adobe Creative Cloud or Acrobat Pro plans for teams. And to keep you connected on the go, you’ll get up to $120 a year for purchases made directly with U.S. wireless providers — that’s $10 back each month.
Amex Offers On top of all those valuable statement credits, the Business Platinum gives you access to Amex Offers, an easy way to save some cash or rack up extra points with a wide range of retailers. These deals rotate regularly and are personalized, so what shows up for you might be totally different from what another cardholder sees. Most of the time, it’s a simple setup like “spend X, get Y back.” I always check Amex Offers before I purchase. (The personal card offers this too.)
The Business Platinum’s Travel Insurance The Business Platinum also comes with great travel insurance. While I still recommend buying a standalone policy for medical, this card includes strong built-in coverage like trip delay, trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and medical transport. It also includes cell phone protection for damage or theft, a rare but valuable perk. For a maximum of $800 per claim, with a limit of two approved claims per 12-month period, when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month’s wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim.
So, while you could get away with the card’s insurance if you book the trip on the card, I wouldn’t rely on it completely. But it’s better than most!
Should you get this card?
The Business Platinum is ideal for frequent travelers who can make the most of perks like smoother airport experiences and hotel elite status. If you can take advantage of a few of the business-related statement credits, the statement credits alone make the high annual fee worth it. I get a lot of value from the card through the statement credits that make carrying the card after the first year really worth it.
While it’s true you only get 1x point per dollar spent on anything under $5,000 (which isn’t as good as many other cards), the points back on redemptions and the tons of statement credits, elite status, Amex offers, and partners you don’t find anywhere else make this card essential for any business owner.
Download my free guide to points and miles and learn how to use points and miles for free travel! It’s how all the pros travel so much! In this guide, I’ll show you:
How to Pick a Credit Card
How to Earn Up to 10x Miles on Your Spending
How to Redeem Your Points
And a Ton of Other Money Saving Tips!
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
