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The Australian summer is almost here, and you can feel the heat building up. Whether you’re seeking an exotic beach escape or an adventure filled with vibrant culture, two dream destinations just a short flight away are calling your name: Bali and Thailand. If the beach, good food, and relaxation are what you’re after, it’s time to start planning that tropical paradise getaway! Here's your guide to Bali and Thailand’s best escapes, plus some smart tips to make your planning smooth and stress-free. 🌴 For Beach Lovers: Bali, Indonesia Perfect for: Beach clubs, tropical vibes, surfing and spiritual retreats Bali is the ultimate island paradise for those who want a mix of adventure and relaxation. From the buzzing beach clubs of Seminyak to the peaceful rice paddies of Ubud, Bali offers something for everyone. If you’re into surfing, the beaches of Uluwatu and Kuta are world-famous for their great waves. If you need some downtime, you can’t go wrong with a sunset drink by the beach, or a rejuvenating spa treatment surrounded by lush jungle. Travel Tip: Bali’s popularity means accommodation can book our quickly, especially around Christmas and New Year. But if you’re flexible with dates, you’ll often find mid-week availability. Use platforms such as Luxury Escapes for late deals, and don’t forget to pre-book transport (like airport transfers) to save time on arrival.   🏖️For Adventure Seekers: Thailand’s Islands Perfect For: Stunning beaches, lively nightlife, water sports, and unique cultural experiences Thailand’s islands, such as Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi, are the ideal destinations for those who want a little bit of everything. You can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, trek through lush jungles, or enjoy the local nightlife in places like Patong Beach. The food scene is something else - delicious street food or enjoy fresh seafood right by the beach. Plus, the ancient temples and local culture will leave you in awe. Travel Tip: If you’re heading to the islands, consider booking flights or ferries ahead of time, as routes can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Some Travel Tips for Your Summer Holiday to Bali and Thailand: ✅Pack smart (and light): Bali and Thailand both bring the heat and humidity, so pack light and breezy clothing, plenty of sunscreen, and a trusty hat. Sunglasses are non-negotiable, and a light jacket will come in handy when the evenings cool down. Planning to visit temples? Be sure to bring modest clothing to cover your shoulders and knees out of respect for local customs. ✅Be flexible with travel dates: Mid-week departures and returns are often cheaper and less crowded. By shifting your dates, you can save on flights and avoid the weekend rush at popular destinations like Bali’s beaches or Thailand’s temples. ✅Go local: Some of the best experiences are found off the beaten path. Explore quieter beaches, local markets, or hidden temples. Supporting local businesses not only enriches your experience but also helps the community. ✅Get travel insurance: Make sure you’re covered for unexpected events, like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or cancellations. We partner with the award-winning PassportCard, Australia’s only travel insurance with instant payouts for common approved claims. Whether it’s a medical issue overseas, delayed luggage, or stolen cash, PassportCard can load funds onto your card so you can pay for common approved claims on the spot.   Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip. * All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement and other policy documentation, including the schedule. Terms and conditions of the PassportCard also apply.

Snow season stirs in Japan - and if you’re craving a getaway filled with snow-covered scenery, steaming hot springs, and heartwarming culture, Japan should be at the top of your list. From the powder-perfect slopes of Hokkaido to Kyoto’s serene temples dusted in white, Japan turns into a breathtaking wonderland during the colder months. Whether you’re chasing adventure on the ski fields, soaking in an onsen under falling snow, or exploring festive winter markets, Japan offers the ultimate mix of beauty, comfort, and magic this season. Here's your guide to Japan’s top winter spots, including the best ski resorts, must-see attractions, and why travel insurance is a must if you’re hitting the slopes. 🏔️For Snow Lovers: Niseko, Hokkaido Perfect for: Skiing, snowboarding, hot springs, and après-ski vibes If you dream of deep powder snow, Niseko on the island of Hokkaido is the ultimate winter haven. Known globally for its abundant and consistent snowfall, Niseko boasts world-class ski slopes, and the powder here is often hailed as some of the best in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the resort offers plenty of runs and terrain for all levels. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, unwind with a relaxing soak in one of Niseko’s famous hot springs, and enjoy some hearty Japanese comfort food to fuel up for another adventure. Travel Tip: Book accommodation through platforms like Luxury Escapes, where last-minute deals can pop up, especially mid-week. Lift passes can be purchased online to save time on the mountain. ⛷️For Skiing and Snowboarding: Hakuba, Nagano Perfect for: Skiing, snowboarding, and breathtaking mountain scenery Habuka, located in Nagano Prefecture, is renowned for its excellent ski resorts. The area is home to a vast range of ski slopes, offering everything from groomed runs to off-piste powder snow for skiers and snowboarders. It is a destination that will never be forgotten due to its breathtaking mountain scenery. Enjoy Japanese après-ski delights, tour the stunning mountain villages and find the onsens in the area to relieve weary muscles after a day of skiing. Travel Tip: Look for last-minute discounts like Luxury Escapes on accommodation for a more authentic Japanese experience or make a reservation through ski package services that combine lodging, lift passes, and rentals. For Culture and Snow-Covered Scenery: Kyoto Perfect for: Temples, gardens, and peaceful winter walks Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, takes on an entirely new charm in winter. As light snow dusts its ancient temples and tranquil gardens, the city transforms into a serene wonderland. Wander through the peaceful pathways of Arashiyama, admire the snow-capped torii gates at Fushimi Inari Shrine, or warm up with a bowl of matcha in one of the city’s traditional teahouses. Kyoto’s winter beauty is subtle yet captivating — a slower, quieter side of Japan that invites you to pause and soak in the moment. Travel Tip: Visit Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) early in the morning after a snowfall. Seeing its golden reflection glimmer against a backdrop of pure white is one of Kyoto’s most magical winter sights — and arriving early means you’ll enjoy it before the crowds appear. 🚨Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Snow Sports Activities Travel insurance is crucial whether you intend to ski or snowboard, if you are going to Niseko for the powdery slopes or touring the beautiful villages of the Japanese Alps. Skiing may be dangerous, especially for people who are unfamiliar with the terrain, and accidents can occur on the slopes. Most travel insurance providers offer additional cover for snow sports and typically include things like: Snow sports covered Unlimited overseas medical treatment Snow sports medical and evacuation Equipment hires Pre-paid ski passes & equipment hire Piste closure Bad weather & avalanche closure   Final Tips for Your Winter Getaway in Japan: ✅ Pack for the weather: Layer up for warmth and bring waterproof gear for skiing. Be ready for cold mountain air and milder city temperatures. ✅ Get early ski passes: Save time by buying lift passes in advance to avoid long weekend lines ✅ Respect the culture: Follow local customs, like washing thoroughly before entering onsens or public baths. ✅ Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia’s only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims* using the PassportCard . Snow sports is an optional cover. Medical issues in Japan, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card, so you can pay common claims on the spot. Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip. * All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement and other policy documentation, including the schedule. Terms and conditions of the PassportCard also apply.

Bank Orange is excited to announce our new partnership with Westfund to provide a health insurance that doesn't just do its job, but adds an extra level of care to its members.   About Westfund Westfund helped to forge the private health industry in Australia back in 1953 – with origins dating back to 1881. Westfund are a not-for-profit member-based health fund with offices in Orange, Bathurst, Lithgow and across Australia. They have member-first and community driven values and are a part of leading industry bodies; Australian Health Service Alliance, Members Health Fund Alliance and Private Health Australia.     Westfund have an exciting offer* for Bank Orange member -  a discount of 5% off the standard premium of eligible Westfund products.** *The offer is only available on the following products: Combined Hospital and Extras, Hospital Only **The offer is subject to payment by direct debit and proof of Membership. Offer not available on Ambulance Only, Extras Only or Overseas products. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Discount will apply while a current MOU exists between Westfund and Bank Orange.   Find out more at https://www.westfund.com.au/corporate/bank-orange-5plus2mth/  

It’s a rite of passage for every Aussie to visit Bali at least once in their lifetime—and for most travellers, one Bali experience is enough to get them hooked for life! Before you embark on your Bali escape, it’s always good to find out a little about what you can expect so you know how to prepare for your trip and get the most out of the experience. That’s why we’ve pulled together this handy travel guide, filled with everything you need to know before you visit Bali. Best ways to experience Bali There’s so much to love about Bali. Without having to travel too far from Australian shores, Bali serves up a rich cultural experience with something for everyone. With so much on offer, it can be hard to know where to start when choosing what activities to include on your itinerary—but don’t worry, here are some top ideas of things to do in Bali that will make for an unforgettable experience. Practice yoga in Ubud - Having been practised in Bali for more than 1,000 years, many people travel to Bali every year with the sole purpose of practising yoga—and Ubud is the place to do it. The spectacular scenery alone can work wonders helping you to feel rested and restored Sip cocktails at sunset - There are plenty of great places to relax with a cocktail while taking in the beauty of a Bali sunset, but if you’re looking for one of the best and most iconic places to do it, Rock Bar in Jimbaran is seriously impressive Explore some of Bali’s ancient temples - Bali is home to many Pura (Hindu temples), some of which date back thousands of years. If you can, include a visit to temples like Tanah Lot, Pura Tirta Empul or Uluwatu Temple on your itinerary to experience some of Bali’s rich cultural heritage. Visiting Bali   Climate Bali can be beautiful to visit at most times of the year, but it is good to plan your trip around what you would most like to do while you’re there. Bali is generally warm no matter what time you visit, with temperatures typically ranging between 28°C - 32°C year-round. The climate in Bali is however separated into the wet and dry seasons, which could influence the type of activities you’ll be able to enjoy. The dry season runs from April through to October, making it an ideal time to travel if your idea of a Bali escape involves plenty of time spent outside. If you plan to visit during the wet season (from November to March), expect to encounter frequent downpours. Culture and language   Bali’s culture is richly steeped in a form of Hinduism called Agama Hindu Dharma which influences almost every aspect of the way the Balinese people live, with significant focus placed on achieving a harmonious balance between people, nature and religion. Balinese people are generally very warm and welcoming toward tourists. While the official languages in Bali include Bahasa Indonesia (Indonesian) and Basa Bali (Balinese), many Bali locals also speak some English which makes it relatively easy for Australian tourists to get by in most areas of the island. You shouldn’t have any issues communicating in English in hotels or restaurants. It is important to research and respect the local laws in Bali, as some things that might be acceptable in Australia are seriously frowned upon in Indonesia. Some activities (such as drug offenses) can attract very severe penalties, including the death penalty. Getting around   While Bali is geographically small in size, it is densely populated and traffic jams are common, particularly in the areas which are most popular with tourists. The roads can seem somewhat chaotic compared to Australian roads, and driving can be very challenging if you’re not used to the conditions. For this reason, most tourists opt to use either taxis or private drivers to get around. Motorbikes are another common form of transport in Bali. If you choose to hire a motorbike while in Bali, just make sure it comes with adequate vehicle insurance in case you have an accident. You’ll be pleased to know our travel insurance provides cover for claims that arise from the use of a motorbike, provided you wear a helmet and meet the local license requirements for the motorbike you are riding. If the motorbike is more than 125cc, you’ll also need to have a current and valid licence required for driving an equivalent rated Motorcycle in Australia. Accommodation   Bali offers a variety of accommodation options including everything from luxury hotels and private villas through to budget backpacker hostels. You may even choose to stay in a Losmen, which are basic guest houses run by local Balinese families. You’ll generally find that most of the accommodation in Bali is relatively affordable compared to what you might expect to pay in Australia when you consider the quality of the rooms and facilities and the level of service provided. Entry requirements   If you are travelling on an Australian passport, you can apply for an e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) no later than 48 hours prior to travelling to Indonesia. Alternatively, you can also pay for a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at Ngurah Rai airport in Denpasar (Bali’s international airport). It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to Indonesia. Preparing for Your Trip Checklist   Ready for your Bali escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable getaway: Check passport validity: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet Bali’s visitor entry requirements. Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method and consider carrying some Indonesian rupiah (IDR) for cash-only spots. Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be travelling. Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers Bali or consider a pre-paid international SIM card. Book your accommodations and share travel details with someone at home. Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot. Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip. * All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement and on other policy documentation, including the schedule. Terms and conditions of the PassportCard also apply.  

Discovering Aotearoa New Zealand is an adventure you’ll cherish for a lifetime! With its breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich Māori heritage, New Zealand has something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing adventure or diving into Kiwi culture, this guide has everything you need to prepare for your trip across the ditch!    Best Ways to Experience New Zealand   Planning a New Zealand getaway? Here are some must-do activities to help you soak up the best of the north and south islands:   Māori Cultural Experiences in Rotorua: Rotorua is a cultural hotspot where you can explore Te Pa Tu, Mitai Māori Village, Te Puia, Whakarewarewa, and the Hell’s Gate Geothermal Park. Bungy Jumping in Queenstown: Get an adrenaline rush by bungy jumping at the iconic AJ Hackett’s Kawarau Bridge or try swings and ziplines in this thrill-seeker’s paradise. Skiing or Snowboarding on Mt Ruapehu: New Zealand’s largest ski resort offers slopes for every skill level. Don’t forget to add Winter Sports cover when you book your travel insurance! Cruise Through Fiordland National Park: Explore the majestic landscapes of Fiordland, particularly Milford and Doubtful Sound. Enjoy a scenic cruise or kayak past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and cascading waterfalls, with seals, dolphins, and penguins often joining along the way. Explore the Hobbiton Movie Set: Located in Matamata, the Hobbiton movie set offers a magical experience for movie buffs and fantasy fans alike. Stroll through the picturesque green hills and hobbit holes, then enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn for a taste of Middle-earth. Wine Tasting in Marlborough: The Marlborough region is a haven for wine lovers, particularly known for its world-renowned Sauvignon Blanc. Embark on a wine tour by bike or car, and sample wines directly from the cellar doors at vineyards like Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate, and more.   Essentials for Your New Zealand Visit   Climate: The summer months (December–February) bring warm weather and outdoor fun, while winter (June–August) is perfect for hitting the slopes. Expect highs of 20-30°C in summer and 10-15°C in winter. Culture & Language: English and Māori are New Zealand’s official languages. Respect sacred sites and Māori customs; remember, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Getting Around: Explore New Zealand by car or campervan to truly appreciate its scenic routes or take buses if you’d rather sit back and relax.   Accommodation: From hotels to hostels, holiday parks to farm stays, New Zealand offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every traveller. Entry Requirements: Australian citizens and most permanent residents can visit without a visa. Permanent residents should apply for an NZeTA. Check Smartraveller for the latest entry advice.   Preparing for Your Trip Checklist   Ready for your New Zealand escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable getaway: Check passport validity: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet New Zealand’s visitor entry requirements. Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method, and consider carrying some New Zealand Dollars (NZD) for cash-only spots. Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be travelling. Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers New Zealand or consider a pre-paid international SIM card. Book your accommodations and share travel details with someone at home. Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot. If you are skiing or doing some adventure activities, check your travel insurance for coverage. Some providers, like PassportCard, have optional cover for winter sports and adventure activities.   Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip.      

Bank Orange is delighted to launch a partnership with PassportCard to provide a differentiated travel insurance offer to its members. PassportCard is Australia’s only travel insurance with instant payouts for medical issues overseas, delayed luggage and stolen cash. A highlight in difficult and time sensitive situations.   Lewis von Stieglitz, CEO of Bank Orange said he is excited to bring travel insurance to the bank’s members “Bank Orange is all about helping people meet their needs and protect their financial position. Insurance is a key part of that equation. PassportCard can provide broad coverage, personal service and immediate payment for approved claims while customers are travelling so they are not out of pocket.  PassportCard provides the same high level of access, convenience and flexibility which we aim to provide in all our products and services. It is a great win for our members.” Peter Klemt, CEO of PassportCard said “We’re very pleased to establish a partnership with Bank Orange.  Our focus on personal service and support aligns closely with local, customer focused organisations like Bank Orange, and we’re very pleased to launch a new product in the central west region.”  With two million PassportCards issued worldwide and a 24/7/365 Australian based support team, PassportCard is well placed to ensure Aussies are appropriately insured when they travel. ABOUT PASSPORTCARD PassportCard understands they are the only company in the world to offer real-time payment via a rechargeable prepaid debit card. US patented technology allows customers to pay expenses for approved claims so you can get back to enjoying your holiday without having to pay via their own funds and wait to be reimbursed. Now that Australians have started travelling overseas again, PassportCard has restarted its operations in Australia. The PassportCard Group has been providing innovative travel insurance solutions since 2014 with over 2 million cardholders globally. Find out more at www.passportcard.com.au PassportCard Australia Pty Ltd (PassportCard) ABN 76 621 476 220 (AFSL 551 057) is an Underwriting Agency acting under Binder from Guild Insurance Limited (Guild) ABN 55 004 538 863 (AFSL 233 791). Any advice provided by PassportCard in relation to PassportCard products and the PassportCard is general advice only. Please consider the Combined Financial Services Guide & Product Disclosure Statement and the PassportCard Terms and Conditions (available at www.passportcard.com.au) before deciding whether they are suitable for you.