AuthorsLara PiconeL

Lara Picone

Travel Journalist

Working for many of Australia’s top publications, Lara Picone has had the distinct pleasure of writing, editing and curating content about the finer things in life for more than 15 years. Graduating from Macquarie University with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, her editorial foundation began at Qantas: The Australian Way magazine, before moving on to learn the fast-paced ropes of a weekly magazine at Sunday Magazine and picking up the art of brand curation at donna hay magazine. Pivoting a near-problematic travel lust into a career move by combining it with storytelling and a curious appetite, her next role was as Deputy Editor of SBS Feast magazine and later Online Editor of SBS Food online. She then stepped into her dream job as Editor of Australian Traveller before becoming Online Editor for both International Traveller and Australian Traveller. Now as a freelancer, Lara always has her passport at-the-ready to take flight on assignment for the Australian Traveller team, as well as for publications such as Qantas Magazine, Escape and The Weekend Australian. As ever, her appetite is the first thing she packs.
The Tamborine boutique hotel from above
Gold Coast

13 unmissable things to do in Tamborine Mountain

Just 30 minutes from the Gold Coast, this lush hinterland region offers panoramic vistas, rainforested national parks and chic new hotel offerings. Here are the best things to do in Tamborine Mountain.

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Noosa River, Makepeace Island
Noosa

I stayed on Richard Branson’s $25,000 per night private Noosa island – here’s what it’s like

As travellers embrace exclusive-use escapes for unforgettable experiences, this heart-shaped patch of paradise on the Noosa River reflects a growing appetite for once-in-a-lifetime stays.

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Turon Gates Eco Retreat, Blackheath
Blue Mountains

17 stays in Blackheath to retreat to

From covetable cabins to contemporary hotels, you’ll find the mountain retreat of your long weekend dreams in Blackheath.

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Echoes Restaurant and Bar, Katoomba
Blue Mountains

The best restaurants in the Blue Mountains 

Inspired by the stunning landscape and rich produce of the region, these beautiful Blue Mountains restaurants invite diners to relish local flavours with their innovative menus.

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Top spots for the most exquisite high tea in the Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

Top spots for the most exquisite high tea in the Blue Mountains

Top off your afternoon with one of these Blue Mountains high teas, whether you seek a luxurious setting with sprawling mountain views or a cosy teahouse complete with fireplace.

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Ardour Lilianfels Blue Mountains pool view
Blue Mountains

14 incredible Katoomba stays to try for yourself

Base yourself at one of these incredible Katoomba stays as you discover the stunning Blue Mountains beyond.

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Boiler Haus Restaurant in Katoomba
Blue Mountains

11 excellent Katoomba restaurants to dine at now

Whether you fancy a fine dining affair or a more low-key night out, you’ll find a menu to whet your appetite in the beautiful mountain-side town of Katoomba.

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Kedumba River Crossing Campground, Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

15 Blue Mountains camping spots for a nature-packed trip

With vast national parks pocketed with idyllic spots to pitch a tent, camping is one of the best ways to experience the Blue Mountains.

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Wollemi Artisan Markets, Katoomba
Blue Mountains

15 must-visit markets in the Blue Mountains by town

With a collection of weekly, monthly and yearly markets rotating through the Blue Mountains, you’re sure to discover one during your stay.

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