Top 10 Travel Searches of 2008

Yahoo!7 have released their top 10 travel searches of 2008. Not surprisingly, Australian destinations make up the majority of the list due to the economic climate, with Aussies choosing to stay closer to home this year.

10. Europe

The Aussie love affair with Europe continues! Despite a weak dollar, Europe is still a popular holiday destination for Australian travellers. Renting a car is a great way to see all Europe has to offer.

9. Vietnam

With low cost flights now available to Vietnam, it's has become more accessible than ever and a bit of a travel hot spot. I visited Vietnam in May and would definitely recommend it - great food, fascinating culture, beautiful scenery and great value for money.

8. New Zealand

Not too far away, the neighbouring land is still a favourite with Aussies. Renowned for it's natural beauty and breathtaking scenery, New Zealand is a great spot for adventure seekers, skiers and wine lovers. Check out our photos on New Zealand on Flickr or check out our New Zealand blog.

7. Port Douglas

Home to the famous four mile beach, Port Douglas is a popular tropical getaway with Aussies. Located an hour north of Cairns, it is a scenic gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. It is also home to the Daintree Forest, the largest rainforest in Australia, covering 1200 square kms.

6. Alice Springs

Alice Springs is known as the centre of Australia and is the second largest town in the Northern Territory. Take in the stunning scenery of the MacDonnell Ranges or take a trip to the world famous Uluru (Ayers Rock) which is 350kms south east of Alice Springs.

5. Melbourne
Often referred to as the ‘cultural city', Melbourne is a hub of activity with a vibrant arts scene, great shopping and a café culture. It is also the perfect start to a road trip with the Great Ocean Road not too far away and one of the world's most scenic drives.

4. Surfers Paradise

One of the most popular holiday destinations for Australians, in Surfers Paradise you'll find the perfect mix of city and beach lifestyles. Ideal for a short break, there are lots of things for everyone in the family to enjoy.

3. Apollo Bay (on the Great Ocean Road)
Located between Lorne and Cape Otway on Victoria's Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay is also popular with tourists with beaches and a large harbour and marina. Surrounded by rolling green hills, Apollo Bay is a lovely scenic spot.

2. Noosa
Situated on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, Noosa is renowned for it's laidback vibe. Here you can check out pristine beaches or the world's largest sand island. Still very popular with Aussies, it is a good base to explore more of the Sunshine Coast.

1. Gold Coast

No surprise here, the Gold Coast is consistently the number 1 search for domestic travel. A 70km stretch of sandy beaches with a pleasant climate all year round, it's no wonder this is the most searched destination by Aussies.

DriveAway Holidays offers car rental in Europe, New Zealand and throughout Australia.