28 September,2025 02:29 PM IST | Mumbai | Tanisha Banerjee
Sara near Sydney’s Opera House. PICS/SARA TENDULKAR
For Sara Tendulkar, Australia transcends a travel destination. It's a place layered with nostalgia and discovery. Her connection with the country dates back to her childhood, when she would accompany her brother Arjun to watch their father play cricket. "Every time I visit, forgotten memories suddenly come alive," she says. "Australia feels like a place that gives me exactly what I need at that point in my life whether it's peace, fun, or inspiration."
Sara Tendulkar. Pic/Ashish Raje
Now, having travelled across the country multiple times, thanks to Tourism Australia, of which she is brand ambassador, she's full of insider picks for young travellers: where to eat, chill, explore, and save (or not!). From free beaches, buzzing laneways, Japanese fine dining to world-class coffee culture, Sara's picks are equal parts warm, artsy, adventurous, and surprisingly affordable.
"Beaches are a big part of the experience," Sara says. Apart from relaxing on the sand, she also loves surfing. It is worth trying, even if you just rent a board and learn the basics. "I am huge on surfing. All you need is a surfboard." From her many hikes and treks, trails like the Great Ocean Road or the Story Bridge climb offered stunning views without breaking the bank. "There's just too much nature in Australia to ignore."
Australia has a buzzing nightlife scene and café culture. Melbourne's laneways, filled with graffiti, small bars, and hidden cafés, are her go-to. "They're fun, lively, and not expensive," she says. The country's reputation for amazing coffee means that even a casual night out at a café feels special.
Sara at the Tamborine rainforest skywalk in Australia
Between surfboards and skyscrapers, Sara finds inspiration in Australia's creative energy. She is eager to dive deeper into the Indigenous culture of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander origin. "There's so much history and culture I haven't explored yet, and that's something I really want to do."
Sara's food favourites are anchored by three must-visits, starting with Kisumé at 175 Flinders Lane in Melbourne. "I love Japanese food and this place is my favourite." With three levels of dining experience and a gorgeously designed Chablis Bar, this is the place for Australian fine wine and dining. Her next place is Lune Croissanterie. Located in Spaces in Melbourne, the bakery-cum-café is famous for inventive croissants and pastries. "I had their vegemite croissant and I have never tasted anything like it!" Sara's eyes twinkled at the recollection. And thirdly, she says, "Any Australian café. The coffee is just the best here."
To balance shopping with her budget, Sara explores the local markets at Melbourne laneways. "There's a lot of good merchandise, and you don't need to compromise on budget or quality." From quirky streetwear to artisanal souvenirs, Australia offers plenty beyond luxury malls. "It can give you whatever you're looking for - a budget trip or a luxurious holiday." Her tip: blend free outdoor activities like beaches, hikes, and street art walks with budget-friendly cafés and markets. "The quality is always high, no matter where you go."
Beyond food and cricket, what strikes Sara most is the warmth of Australians. "They're so friendly and hospitable that you feel at home instantly! Sometimes more than in other places where people are a bit hostile." She sees a deep cultural similarity between the two countries: "They love their food and their cricket, just like us."
We are looking to visit and write about interesting places of stay and travel, near and far. If you wish to host us for a fair, engaging, experience review, write to us at smdmail@mid-day.com
