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.
avo toast at Lily’s Pad, Leura
Blue Mountains

9 cosy Leura cafes to start the day at

For Leura-based explorations of the Blue Mountains, these seven cafes will top up your caffeine levels and fortify your day with delicious food.

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External view of Kirk's Wine Bar in Hardware Lane Melbourne
Melbourne

This is the best Aussie city to visit in winter – it’s even better than Hobart

Come winter, Melbourne doesn’t hibernate – it elevates. Here’s how to make the most of this city’s cool-weather culture.

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34 things every visitor must do in the Blue Mountains
Blue Mountains

Things to do in the Blue Mountains: Waterfalls, cellar doors and glow worms

More than just a beauty to behold, the Blue Mountains is a place of activity and adventure.

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Things to do in Katoomba: Waterfalls, hiking and high tea
Blue Mountains

Things to do in Katoomba: Waterfalls, hiking and high tea

The historic Blue Mountains town of Katoomba is a vibrant, creative enclave filled with attractions from outdoor excitement to cosy places to sit and sip.

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Grand Cliff Top Walk, Wentworth Falls
Blue Mountains

Things to do in Leura: waterfalls, hiking and saunas

With its mountainside charm and rich community feel, Leura is an idyllic location for an easy mini break.

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Spicers Sangoma Retreat, Bowen Mountain
Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains accommodation: 21 stunning places to book now

From luxury hotels to family-friendly resorts and stylish holiday homes, this is the best accommodation in the Blue Mountains.

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shops on the main street of Leura
Blue Mountains

Treasure-filled spots for shopping in Leura

Spend where you stay and take home something special from your mountain escape on a Leura shopping spree.

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ballina
NSW

This NSW town is proving it’s more than just a gateway to Byron

From cool new cafes to pristine beaches, we’re making the case for Ballina as a destination for lingering. These are the best things to do when visiting.

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top beach towns in Australia
Australia

The 10 best Aussie beach towns for an easy coastal getaway

Classic beachside destinations defined by sun, sand and sea. 

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