Set Sail on a Titan: Step aboard the Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, and indulge in its unparalleled offerings.
The ocean has a new monarch—Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas. Launched on January 25, 2024, this gargantuan sea titan is not just a ship but a floating destination replete with excitement, luxury, and adventure. The Icon rises as the biggest cruise ship to date, an architectural marvel spanning 1,198 feet, backed by the weighty promise of transforming sea travel as we know it.
Key Features:
World’s largest cruise ship: Hosting 5,610 guests with 2,350 crew members aboard.
Diverse neighborhoods: 8 distinctive areas, each with its unique vibe and offerings.
Thrill Island: The ultimate playground with the largest seascape waterpark and adrenaline-pumping attractions.
Swim & Tonic Bar: Indulge in a drink without leaving the pool, complete with breathtaking sea views.
Varied entertainment: 15 venues including music, live performances, and the first Royal Caribbean duelling pianos bar.
Messi as the Icon: Brought into the limelight with the football legend Lionel Messi gracing its naming celebration.
CocoCay private island visits: Excursions to Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island with an adults-only retreat.
Rover the Chief Dog Officer: The ship’s furry ambassador to charm the passengers.
Accessible luxury: 7-night voyages starting from £1358pp.
Why is it so important?
The Icon of the Seas catapults the cruising experience into a new epoch. Prior to its debut, obstacles such as spatial restrictions, limited activities, and the lack of diversity in onboard experiences were common. With space constriction now a thing of the past, the Icon’s colossal structure and multitude of neighborhoods offer a plethora of activities, ensuring that every moment on the high seas is unique and unforgettable. Introducing revolutionary thrills like the highest swings and slides at sea, alongside serene swim-up bars, means that adventure-seekers and leisure-lovers alike can find their perfect getaway. As it introduces renowned figures like Messi into its story, the Icon of the Seas adds global appeal and an extra touch of glamour to its voyages.
Who is it for?
The Icon of the Seas has been crafted for a wide audience. Families can delight in the child-friendly wonders of Thrill Island, while romantic duos can find their sanctuary in overwater cabanas at Hideaway Beach, the private island escape. Corporate retreats can leverage the ship’s expansive facilities and entertainment options to mix business with pleasure. Here are real-life implications of the Icon’s offerings:
A family can spend an entire trip without repeating a single adventure, with neighborhoods and activities for every age.
Couples on a honeymoon can relish intimate experiences, from private beaches to elegant bars, without needing to venture back to land.
Corporate teams can host impactful events with a blend of relaxation and team-building exercises, all within the breathtaking setup of the open ocean.
As we peer into the horizon, the maritime vista twinkles with the promise of an evolving era of cruise travel. With behemoths like the Icon of the Seas charting new waters, the future looks ripe for extraordinary innovations, immersive experiences, and perhaps larger, even more feature-packed maritime wonders. As society advances and leisure travel takes on new dimensions, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas heralds a tantalizing glimpse of what’s on the distant, yet ever-approaching, maritime horizon.
The U.S. is full of famous spots that draw people in. But, some places don’t live up to their hype. They’re often made to seem better than they are by the media. Also, some places have too many shops and things that take away from their true beauty.
Key Takeaways
The Seattle Space Needle often has long waits for short elevator rides with views that are replicable elsewhere in the city.
The Mall of America, while vast, struggles with overwhelming crowds that diminish the experience.
Hollywood Walk of Fame is crowded and has lost its initial charm due to commercialization and wear.
The Four Corners Monument, unique in location but lacking amenities and attractions.
Bourbon Street in New Orleans can feel more like a spring break party than a culturally rich experience.
Misleading Magnificence: The Empire State Building, New York
The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City’s strength and endurance. But is it worth the long wait and high cost? Many visitors feel it’s overrated and not worth the hype. They say it doesn’t give the best view of the Manhattan skyline.
Alternative Views in Manhattan
Want to see the Manhattan skyline without spending a lot? Try the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. It’s less crowded and offers amazing views. Or visit the One World Observatory at One World Trade Center for a deep, meaningful experience.
Being spontaneous in New York attractions can lead to great discoveries. Sometimes, the best moments come from unplanned adventures. This way, you can find unique spots that are unforgettable.
Best Free Viewpoints
If you don’t want to spend money, there are still great places to see for free. The Staten Island Ferry gives you stunning views of the New York City skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is another spot with amazing views of downtown Manhattan.
Central Park is also a place with hidden gems. A walk there can lead you to perfect spots for skyline views. It’s a chance to escape the city and enjoy nature.
Choosing other places over the Empire State Building can make your trip better. You can avoid crowds and costs for a more meaningful experience in New York.
Mount Rushmore, South Dakota: A Smaller-Than-Expected Experience
Mount Rushmore is in the Black Hills and symbolizes American heritage. But, many visitors feel a Mount Rushmore disappointment when they see it. It’s big in history but looks small next to the huge nature around it.
Historical Significance vs. Reality
Building Mount Rushmore started in 1927 and finished in 1941. They moved 450,000 tons of stone. It’s a big deal in history, but visitors might think the faces are smaller than they expected. The Black Hills, full of Native American history, are even more amazing.
Close by, the Crazy Horse Memorial is the biggest carving project since 1948, at 563 feet tall. It costs $30 per car to see it, but it’s a bigger deal than Mount Rushmore. South Dakota tourism has mixed feelings about these big projects.
Scenic Drives Instead of Long Queues
People often choose to drive through the Black Hills instead. The Iron Mountain Road shows off Mount Rushmore and South Dakota’s beauty without the long lines. This drive is a great way to see the area’s beauty.
Other places to visit include Wind Cave National Park and the Needles Highway. Wind Cave has huge caves and animals, and the Needles Highway has tunnels and beautiful rocks. Getting into these places is not too expensive, with Custer State Park charging $20 for a week.
“The Black Hills are more than just Mount Rushmore. They’re a historic and natural marvel, waiting to be explored beyond the tourist trail.”
Custer town offers a mix of culture and food, like Chislic. South Dakota has history, nature, and beautiful drives. Even if Mount Rushmore disappointment happens, it’s still a great place to visit.
Here’s a look at costs and highlights of main attractions:
Attraction
Entrance Fee
Highlights
Mount Rushmore
$10 parking
Iconic Presidential Faces
Crazy Horse Memorial
$30 per vehicle
World’s Largest Mountain Carving
Wind Cave National Park
Free
Massive Caverns and Wildlife
Custer State Park
$20 for 7 days
Scenic Drives and Wildlife
Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles: Not as Close as You Think
The Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles is a big attraction for tourists. But, it’s hard to get close to it and take photos. People often can’t get the close-up shots they want because of rules, traffic, and blocked paths.
The hike to the Hollywood Sign starts at 3160 Canyon Lake Drive. It’s a tough trail, taking about fifty minutes to get to the top of Mount Lee from Lake Hollywood Park. Start early to beat the heat and crowds. Don’t forget water, sunscreen, comfy shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera.
Finding parking is hard too. One side of Canyon Lake Drive only lets you park for fifteen minutes. Griffith Observatory is a better choice. It gives you scenic Los Angeles views of downtown LA, Hollywood, and the Pacific Ocean.
Many visitors feel let down by LA’s Hollywood Sign. The view from Griffith Observatory is better. It shows the city in a big way without the hard hike. You can take great photos of the sign from there.
The Warner Bros Studio Tour is another good option. It lasts 2 to 3 hours and shows you behind the scenes of movies and TV. Buy tickets online to skip the long lines and make your visit better.
In the end, the Hollywood Sign is still a must-see. But, getting there and the crowded trails might make you look for other places to visit in Los Angeles.
Overrated Road Trips: The Charms and Letdowns of Times Square, New York
Times Square is called “The Crossroads of the World.” But, it often disappoints travelers looking for more than just bright signs and crowds. It’s ranked 1 by Whym, showing it’s a big letdown for many.
The area is packed with tourists and too commercial. This makes it hard to find the magic many hope for. Long waits for attractions and discomfort from the crowd push many away from this spot.
Night Visits: Less Crowded, More Enjoyable
Visiting Times Square at night can help avoid the crowds. As night falls, it gets less crowded. You can enjoy the bright lights and the lively feel without feeling too packed.
This is great for those wanting to see Times Square without the stress of the day. It makes for a better experience.
Local Attractions to Consider
New York City has many places that show its true spirit, not just Times Square’s glitz. The High Line is one, a park built on an old rail line. It offers great views and a peaceful feel.
You could also visit the Museum of Modern Art or Central Park. These places give a real taste of New York, away from Times Square’s chaos. They make your trip more meaningful and less disappointing.
FAQ
Why are many American road trips considered overrated?
Many American road trips have stops at famous places. But, they often don’t meet expectations. This is because of too much media hype, high prices, and too many tourists. These things make them less special.
What makes the Empire State Building in New York City overrated?
The Empire State Building gets a lot of visitors. But, its view of Manhattan isn’t the best. Also, it’s expensive and has long lines. This can make the visit less fun.
Are there better alternatives for views in Manhattan?
Yes, there are better spots to see Manhattan. Places like Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center or One World Observatory offer great views too.
Why is Mount Rushmore considered a smaller-than-expected experience?
Mount Rushmore is in a hard-to-reach place and looks smaller than expected. It doesn’t meet the grand expectations from its famous status. Some visitors feel it’s not worth the trip.
What are some alternatives to seeing Mount Rushmore up close?
Instead, try driving Iron Mountain Road. It shows off the monument and the beautiful Black Hills. This gives a better experience in less time.
How accessible is the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles?
The Hollywood Sign is hard to get close to. It’s blocked by traffic and trails. This makes tourists often feel let down.
Where can I get a good view of the Hollywood Sign?
Go to the Griffith Observatory. It offers a great view of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles. It’s a better way to see it from afar.
What are the common disappointments associated with Times Square in New York City?
Times Square is often crowded and too commercial. Long waits for attractions make it uncomfortable. This leads to a disappointing visit.
When is the best time to visit Times Square to avoid large crowds?
Nighttime is better. The crowds are smaller then. You can enjoy the lights and the busy feel without the crowds.
What local attractions should I consider visiting instead of Times Square?
Check out Central Park, the High Line, or neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and SoHo. They offer a real New York feel, away from Times Square’s bright lights and costumed characters.
Australia’s coastline is full of beauty, stretching almost 60,000 kilometers. It includes world-famous spots like the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. These coastal drives offer chances for beach trips, forest walks, and amazing sea sights. It’s a great fit for electric vehicle (EV) owners with lots of charging spots along the way. In this guide, we share the top 10 routes for EV owners in Australia. We also give important tips for charging your EV. So, start your eco-friendly adventure and enjoy a unique journey around Australia.
Key Takeaways
Australia’s coastline is perfect for eco-friendly travel with electric vehicles.
Multiple EV charging stations, including Tesla Destination chargers and 22kW Type 2 AC chargers, are available along popular coastal drives.
Charging infrastructure covers key routes including the Great Ocean Road, Tasmania’s scenic spots, and South Australia’s border-to-border EV network.
Plan your route ahead to ensure access to fast and convenient EV charging options.
Take advantage of incentives for EV owners, such as tax rebates, motor registration exemptions, and subsidized EVs in South Australia.
Great Barrier Reef Drive, Queensland
The Great Barrier Reef drive is a must-do for EV owners. It lets you see the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest. This drive is a big part of Queensland’s tourism. It shows off the beauty of the area and is great for the environment. With many charging spots all along, you can enjoy the stunning views worry-free.
Key Highlights
Starting in Cairns, visitors can recharge their electric vehicles at various locations, including the Pier Cairns, Crystalbrook Bailey, and Cairns Beach Volleyball Court.
Drive approximately 108km from Cairns to Cardwell, a journey that takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, ensuring continuous awe-inspiring scenery.
Pass through Innisfail, which boasts two Chargefox stations and one non-networked station, perfect for a quick recharge.
Discover Paronella Park, featuring two type 2 EV chargers powered by hydroelectricity from Mena Creek Falls—a true testament to sustainable travel.
Enjoy the serene drive from Paronella Park to Mission Beach, covering 47km in about 40 minutes.
Drive Details
The Great Barrier Reef drive is full of iconic stops that offer sustainable fun. When you get to Mission Beach, Castaways Resort & Spa has charging spots for guests. There’s also an overnight charging spot at Tuskers. After Mission Beach, heading to Cardwell is about 70km and takes 50 minutes. It keeps showing how much this area loves eco-friendly travel.
Location
Distance
Driving Time
Charging Stations
Cairns to Palm Cove
26 km
30 mins
Multiple in Cairns
Palm Cove to Port Douglas
43 km
45 mins
3 Chargefox in Port Douglas
Port Douglas to Mossman Gorge
22 km
25 mins
2 at Mossman Gorge Cultural Center
Mossman Gorge to Cape Tribulation
68 km
1 hour
–
At the end of the drive is Cardwell. It has three Chargefox stations. Cardwell Beachfront Motel also offers overnight charging. It’s where your amazing trip ends. You enjoy the adventure while knowing your trip is good for the planet.
Mornington Peninsula Drive, Victoria
The Mornington Peninsula Drive is a beautiful road trip in Victoria, Australia. It’s great for those who love to travel in electric vehicles. You’ll see stunning coastlines, visit charming villages, and enjoy amazing wineries. Plus, there are charging stations for electric cars, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power.
Main Attractions
Driving along Mornington Peninsula is full of fun stops. Point Nepean is a great place to learn and see history. You won’t want to miss Sorrento Ocean Beach for its beauty. In places like Red Hill and Sorrento, you can have great food, walk on the beach, and tour wineries.
There are many places to charge your electric car on the Mornington Peninsula. Across Victoria, there are over 75 EVie charging sites. Sorrento has 50kW chargers for your car. Don’t miss the fast chargers in Dandenong, too, for quick power-ups.
Make sure to visit Red Hill and Sorrento on your trip. You’ll find unique shops, fine dining, and beautiful walks. EV charging points are easy to find, so you can keep exploring. Use the Electric Vehicle Council’s tool to plan your stops and understand costs.
Location
Type of Charger
Availability
Torquay
50kW, 1x CCS2, 1x CHAdeMO
Readily Available
Apollo Bay
50kW, 2x CCS2, 2x CHAdeMO
Readily Available
Dandenong Ampol Foodary
350kW, 2x CCS2, 2x CHAdeMO
Readily Available
The Village Dandenong
150kW, 4x CCS2
Readily Available
Sorrento
50kW, 2x CCS2, 2x CHAdeMO
Readily Available
Start your journey on the Mornington Peninsula Drive for a mix of beauty and history. With its great charging network, it’s perfect for electric cars. This trip lets you explore both the coast and Victoria’s culture.
Grand Pacific Drive, New South Wales
Starting the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales is a great adventure. It’s perfect for locals and visitors. You begin in Sydney, drive through the Royal National Park, and cover 140 kilometers.
This drive shows amazing cliff views and natural trails. It’s no wonder it’s a top pick for New South Wales attractions.
If you have an electric car, this drive is ready for you. Charging stops are easy to find. In Punchbowl, New South Wales, several places offer charging for electric cars of all types.
The trip also includes Wollongong, a great spot for food and beautiful ocean views. You will love stopping there.
This route has plenty of charging points, so you won’t have to stop a lot. Randwick is home to many charging spots, less than 10 kilometers from Sydney Harbour. You’ll find different plug types for your electric car. They color-code the stations and even tell you if they’re busy.
Grand Pacific Drive makes it easy to keep an electric car charged. This is great for electric car fans.
New South Wales leads in Australia for high-power charging spots. It has 174 stations and 438 fast charging points. There are plans for 250 more stations soon, thanks to a big investment by the NSW government.
Here are some key details about charging your electric car in New South Wales:
Feature
Details
Number of Charging Points
438 fast and ultra-fast
Future Plans
250 new stations
Cost per kWh
$0.45 to $0.69
Cheapest Network
Chargefox at $0.45/kWh
Average Home Charging Cost
$18.74 for a 60kWh battery
EV Charging Time
20-30 minutes for 80% charge with DC fast chargers
For a day trip or a visit to the Royal National Park, the Grand Pacific Drive is unbeatable. It’s a must-do for electric car fans wanting a smooth, beautiful trip.
Great Ocean Road, Victoria
The Great Ocean Road is a top pick in Australia for a scenic drive. It stretches 243 kilometers along the coast. Tourists love it for the stunning views and famous stops.
Top Landmarks
Twelve Apostles: These limestone stacks rising majestically are a must-see on the Great Ocean Road.
Loch Ard Gorge: It’s named after a shipwreck that happened in 1878. This spot is full of history and beautiful views.
London Arch: Previously, it was called London Bridge. A part of it fell in 1990, creating a single stunning arch.
Apollo Bay: Known for its fresh seafood, this town is a perfect place to take a break and taste the local flavors.
Driving the Great Ocean Road in a Tesla Model 3 Long Range means no need to recharge. The car’s great battery range covers it. Plus, you won’t have to worry thanks to plenty of charging spots along the way.
EV Charging Options
EV drivers love the Great Ocean Road because of the many charging options. You can stop to charge at places like the RACV Torquay resort and Apollo Bay. With Chargefox’s fast charging, a 15-minute stop can add 400 kilometers of range.
Key Statistics:
EV Charger Type
Range Added per Hour
Key Locations
7kW
Up to 40km
Along the coast
22kW
Up to 120km
RACV Torquay
50kW
Up to 300km
Apollo Bay
150kW+
Up to 900km
Various spots
Many Australians want to buy an EV. By adding more charging options, the Great Ocean Road is now friendly for all. It not only showcases stunning views but also the future of transport.
Great Australian Bight, South Australia
The Great Australian Bight has 1,160 kilometers of beautiful coast. It runs from Cape Catastrophe to Cape Pasley. You’ll see amazing cliffs and lots of marine animals, like southern whales.
Driving along the bight in an EV is a cool experience. You can stop to charge your car at certain places. This drive takes you to places like Ceduna, Port Lincoln, and Port Augusta. Each place has different natural beauty.
Scenic Highlights
This area is famous for its stunning views. The Bunda Cliffs and Head of Bight are must-sees. There, you can gaze at the Southern Ocean. EV drivers can charge up at roadhouses made for long trips.
Dramatic Cliffs: The vertical cliffs are amazing.
Marine Wildlife: Look for whales and dolphins.
EV Sightseeing: Your electric car journey will be great with charging spots.
Route Details
Statistics
Sealed Eyre Highway
100% by June 1974
Number of Roadhouses Across the Nullarbor
7
Distance Between Charging Stops (Caiguna to Norseman)
371 km
Estimated Recharge Time at Bio Charge Facility
around 90 minutes
Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, Queensland
The Queensland coasts are perfect for adventure fans and those who love nature. The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast mix the fun of vibrant cities with calm beauty. They are great for families to enjoy together.
Key Attractions
Broadbeach and Surfer’s Paradise on the Gold Coast are amazing seaside spots. Dreamworld, Sea World, and Warner Bros. Movie World are great for those looking for excitement. They have fun for everyone.
Go a bit north to the Sunshine Coast for Noosa National Park and Mooloolaba Beach. You can see beautiful nature and have many adventures there. The Sunshine Coast is also working to be a place for eco-friendly drivers.
Queensland works hard to cut down on pollution by encouraging electric cars. The government helps people get electric cars with money, more charging spots, and sharing information.
Location
Types of Charging Stations
Charging Speed
Gold Coast
Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging
8-300 km/hour
Sunshine Coast
Level 1, Level 2, DC Fast Charging
8-300 km/hour
The Queensland Electric Super Highway (QESH) goes from Coolangatta to Port Douglas. It has over 60 spots to charge electric cars. This makes it easy for electric car drivers to travel and enjoy the views.
RACQ members save at least 10% at certain Chargefox EV charging stations. This support makes eco-friendly travel easier and lets visitors enjoy Queensland’s coasts without worry.
EV stations Australia and Charging Tips
Understanding how to charge your electric car in Australia is key. Luckily, Australia has many EV stations. Using them right can make your trip smooth and fun.
Plan the Route Ahead
Before you start, plan your trip well. Identify where charging stations are along your way. You can find them at many places, like highway stops, supermarkets, and car parks. This prep can save you time and worry.
Use Fast Chargers
Fast chargers are a big help. They can give you 150 to 300 km of range in just an hour. Look for these faster chargers, especially on long trips between states like New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.
Charge During Off-Peak Times
Charging when it’s cheaper saves money and helps the environment. Off-peak hours typically have lower rates. This practice also puts less pressure on the power supply.
Drive Safely
Be a good driver to go further and stay safe. Drive steadily, accelerate smoothly, and use regenerative braking when you can. These steps help your EV work better and keep you safe.
Stay Protected
Make sure you have the right insurance for your electric car. With more EVs on the road, getting the right coverage is important. Choose a plan that covers charging and EV-specific issues.
Charger Level
Power
Range Added per Hour
Level 1
1.4kW – 3.7kW
10 – 20 km
Level 2
7kW – 22kW
30 – 130 km
Level 3
25kW – 350kW
150 – 300 km
Follow these tips and use Australia’s many charging stations wisely. With good planning and safe driving, your electric car adventures will be great. Always drive safely and remember to enjoy the journey.
Conclusion
Exploring Australian coastal drives makes for green adventures. Every route, like the Great Barrier Reef Drive and the Great Ocean Road, offers special sights. Our charging tips will help make your trip smooth and fun.
The use of electric cars is growing in Australia. More chargers and higher EV sales show a bright future for eco-friendly travel. Now, with many chargers available, traveling in your EV is getting easier.
Plan your trip with an EV for a chance to see Australia’s beautiful coast and help the planet. New charging solutions and a push for green travel make now the best time to go. Enjoy your journey, and treasure the amazing views and memories!
FAQ
What are some of the best Australian coastal drives for electric vehicle owners?
Great drives include the Great Barrier Reef Drive in Queensland. Also, the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, and the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales. Let’s not forget the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. These places have stunning views and lots of EV charging spots.
Are there enough EV charging stations along the Great Barrier Reef Drive?
Yes, the Great Barrier Reef Drive has many EV charging stations. This means a worry-free trip for electric vehicle drivers.
What attractions can I visit along the Mornington Peninsula Drive in Victoria?
See lovely places like seaside towns and hot springs. Enjoy fine wines and spots like Point Nepean. Don’t miss Sorrento Ocean Beach for its beauty.
How long does it take to complete the Grand Pacific Drive in New South Wales?
You can finish the Grand Pacific Drive in less than a day. It starts in Sydney and goes to Wollongong. You’ll drive about 140 kilometers with many charging points.
What are the top landmarks along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria?
Visit the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and the London Arch. Enjoy Apollo Bay’s seafood too. These are must-see places on the Great Ocean Road.
Does the Great Australian Bight have any scenic spots for viewing marine life?
Yes, the Bight is great for seeing whales and its amazing cliffs. Go to spots like Ceduna and Port Lincoln for a memorable view. Many marine animals wait to greet you.
What are some must-visit attractions on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast for EV owners?
The Gold Coast has theme parks and stunning beaches. The Sunshine Coast offers beautiful Noosa National Park. Both have lots of spots to charge your electric car.
What tips can you offer for planning an EV road trip in Australia?
Plan your trip, use fast chargers, and charge at good times. Drive safely and have the right insurance. These steps ensure a fun and smooth trip.
Are there plenty of EV charging options along the Great Ocean Road?
Yes, the Great Ocean Road has many EV charging stations. This makes your coastal trip perfect without power worries.
