For many Malaysians, booking a holiday often means a trip for the entire family. According to Tourism Australia, accessibility and availability of great food and drink options are cited as reasons why Malaysians who’ve recently travelled to Australia associate it as a family-friendly destination.
If you’re planning a trip Down Under involving younger and older generations, you can take inspiration from Projek Bapak Bapak – as four veteran Astro hosts take an adventure through Sydney and Melbourne:
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The cast of Travelawak Projek Bapak Bapak S2 at Sealife Shark Extreme Experience, New South Wales © Astro Warna
Visit Bondi Beach for a good soak, a visit to the soon-to-be redeveloped Sydney Fish Market (due for completion this year), or even a thrilling time at Sealife Shark Extreme Experience. Dial down the adventure with a picnic at, overlooking Lavender Bay, just as our Projek Bapak Bapak hosts did.
The cast of Travelawak Projek Bapak Bapak S2 enjoying a picnic at Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, New South Wales © Astro Warna
A short drive to Ballarat Wildlife Park can also be a new experience with guided hands-on interactions and feeding sessions with Australia’s most beloved animals. All before ski lessons at Mt Buller for the entire family and a conclusion to the trip with a beautiful ride on the Puffing Billy Railway.
In 2023, flight bookings by big groups of Malaysians almost doubled from January through to September, according to Traveloka – many of these outside of the most popular Melbourne and Sydney destinations.
A little closer to home is Perth and the nearby Rottnest Island. With tranquil waters and the island’s most famous resident, the quokka, this island offers plenty of water and cultural activities like whale watching and Indigenous walking tours, suitable for young and old.
Well-known for its theme parks, Gold Coast is also the place to be at if you have a family of foodies. Mecca Bah and Shiraz Authentic Persian Restaurant are halal-friendly options well-loved by locals. For adults who fancy a pint, Burleigh Brewing Company and Lost Palms Brewing Company are both great places to sample the local brew and enjoy the fresh produce that Australia is famous for.
If you’re still on the lookout for more hidden gems for the family, uncover the best of South Australia and other corners of Melbourne with Travel with Parents, featuring Astro hosts Jason Yeoh and Siow Hui Mei, due to air on Astro May 2024. The show features their journey through Australia with their elderly parents that will surely inspire you.