11/05/2026
Australia â My Dream Destination đŚđşâ¨
Some destinations impress you⌠some stay with you forever. For me, Australia is one such destination. Many people dream about visiting the USA, but for me it has always been Australia and New Zealand.
Thanks to my job and my boss at HMA, I was fortunate to visit Sydney for 10 days for the very first time many years ago. We were handling logistics and planning for a large corporate incentive group of almost 600 people. It was not a leisure holiday, but an intensive study tour â and one of the best learning experiences of my life.
One thing my young boss taught me was to study every destination thoroughly and become a master of it before offering it to clients. That lesson stayed with me forever and continues to guide me even today.
During our stayed almost every night at a different 5-star property name it Westin, Sheraton, Four Point Sheraton, Mariott and others. We also visited convention centres, explored sightseeing attractions, checked venues for gala dinners and meals, studied transportation logistics and experienced the city from every possible angle. The days were hectic with meetings, inspections and endless walking⌠and evenings were all about celebrations, networking and enjoying the vibrant spirit of Sydney.
I still remember my first glimpse of Sydney Harbour⌠just standing there and soaking in the energy of the city. The iconic Harbour Bridge on one side and the magnificent Opera House on the other â it felt surreal. The Opera House looked even more beautiful in real life, especially after taking the guided tour and understanding the vision and history behind this architectural masterpiece. It is not just a monument⌠it is an emotion for every traveller visiting Sydney.
One of my most unforgettable experiences was the Harbour Bridge climb. Walking high above the sparkling harbour with ferries gliding below and the city skyline surrounding us was exhilarating. The feeling of standing there, with the cool breeze and breathtaking views, is something I can still remember vividly.
And then there was another side of Sydney which completely charmed me â the quaint little cafĂŠs tucked away in beautiful lanes, relaxed brunches overlooking the harbour, talented street musicians, lush gardens and the warmth of the people. Every corner had its own personality.
I also loved visiting the zoo and seeing kangaroos and koalas so closely for the first time. Watching families enjoying nature with the stunning city backdrop made me realise how beautifully Australia balances modern city life with open spaces and wildlife.
The ferry rides across the sparkling harbour, long drives into the scenic countryside, visiting the famous Sydney Tower, exploring the stadiums and discovering so many vibrant corners of the city â Sydney had something exciting at every step. Every experience added a different layer to the destination, making it not just a city tour but a journey filled with memories, learning and moments of joy.
Over the years, I have realised that destinations are never only about sightseeing. They are about experiences, emotions, comfort, pace and creating memories that remain with you long after the holiday ends.
That is what I enjoy most today â helping travellers experience destinations beyond just a checklist. Whether it is Australia or any other part of the world, every journey should feel personal, meaningful and memorable.
Sydney will always remain very close to my heart⌠and every time I help someone plan Australia, I relive a little part of my own beautiful journey once again. đ
â Dipti Pradhan Thakoor
Travel Expert & Explorer of Destinations
