Vacay mode – how to start your holiday early at Gold Coast Airport
Here at The Weekend Edition, we’re firm believers that your holiday starts the minute you arrive at the airport. Whether you’re jetting off to Bali’s sandy shores, exploring Auckland’s urban charm, soaking up the sun in Sydney, or delving into Melbourne’s eclectic arts scene, your airport experience can set the tone for your entire trip. That’s why we’ve scoured Gold Coast Airport to curate the ideal pre-flight itineraries to get you into holiday mode early, no matter your destination.
Bali bound: For those catching a Virgin Australia direct flight to Bali, Gold Coast Airport has you covered with everything you need for your tropical getaway. Drop in at Boardriders in the domestic terminal for last-minute bikinis and board shorts, ensuring you’re ready to hit the beach as soon as you land. Grab a page-turning read from WHSmith in international departures, like Owen Wright’s Against The Water or Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton, to take you from the flight to lazy beach days. Finally, head to Heinemann Tax & Duty Free to pick out the perfect pair of sunglasses to keep your eyes protected under the Balinese sun. The mammoth store also has an impressive collection of skincare essentials, including cult-favourite products from Sol De Janeiro – the ultimate tropical companions!
Auckland adventure: Crossing the ditch to visit our New Zealand neighbours? Prepare for the cooler climate with a stop at Heinemann Tax & Duty Free for a bottle of Baileys, ideal for cosy evenings. If you feel you haven’t packed a jacket warm enough, fear not—Boardriders in the domestic terminal has you covered. Explore its extensive range of adventure essentials from the likes of Quiksilver, Roxy, Billabong, RVCA and more. And before you embark on your Kiwi escapade, exchange your currency hassle-free at Prosegur Change in international arrivals.
Sydney style: Touch down in Sydney and blend in with the city-slicker locals with some sleek new pieces from Heinemann Tax & Duty Free. Find comfy-but-chic activewear from PE Nation for the early morning coffee hunt through Surry Hills, pick out the perfect Camilla dress for lunch by the water in Bondi, and accessorise for a night out with a new bag from Status Anxiety. And for a healthy start to your day, indulge in one of Fresh’s delicious acai bowls. You’ll be fuelled up and ready to take on the iconic Bondi to Bronte walk as soon as you arrive.
Melbourne magic: Melburnians are always grateful when we Queenslanders bring the sunshine with us. We can’t control the weather, but we can pick up some Palm Noosa resort wear from Heinemann to brighten up the trip. To prep for Melbourne’s moody skies, feel sunshine from the inside out before you fly by chowing down on The Hawaiian chicken burger from Schnitz. With schnitzel, cheese, bacon, barbecue relish and golden pineapple, you’ll be ready for whatever forecast is thrown at you. And just in case that Melbourne chill gets under your skin, swing by Amcal+ Express pharmacy for all of your health needs.
Whether you’re seeking sun, adventure or urban exploration, Gold Coast Airport ensures you’re ready to embrace every aspect of your destination from the moment you step off the plane.
To find out more, head to Gold Coast Airport or even better, book yourself a trip and see for yourself .
This article was created in partnership with our friends at Gold Coast Airport.
