We Went On The Holidays We Loved Most As Kids … But As Adults

Go on, try it.

With the exception of every single episode FRIENDS, some things just don’t feel the same 20 years later. And while this shouldn’t (really) come as a surprise … Well, it does. Still, though, in the interests of nostalgia and a really long Easter break, we took some of the holidays we loved most as kids … this time around, as adults. Here’s how they panned out…

via Instagram @coalcoastkombi

The Big Banana

Then … This mythical banana-flavoured paradise on NSW's North Coast was worth the five-plus hours strapped side by side with your siblings on the Pacific Highway. Back then, it was just the banana. And, if you were lucky, a banana milkshake.

Now … It’s toboggans! Waterslides! Ice-skating! Mini golf! Laser Tag! And, thankfully, still choc-covered frozen bananas. Still though, it’s a lot smaller than I remember.

via Instagram @amberdiscovers

The Great Barrier Reef

Then … It was surreal. An endless stretch of light blue and coral in ice-cream colours. Oh, and the stinger suits.

Now … Looking a lot less cute in those stinger suits, but on the upside we got to venture beyond the boat’s net and go deep - diving to see the Reef from a whole new angle. Also spotted: sharks. Totally understand now why Mum insisted we stay in the nets. Sadly, it was also a reminder that climate change is very, very real. It’s not just the memories that are fading.

via Instagram @beaumicheli

The Northern Territory

Then … As a small child travelling through the NT (via the outback) through to Darwin, I was convinced there were crocs everywhere. On the side of the road. In the pool. Even in the toilet. (The first of which is actually true.)

Now … Turns out there aren’t crocs everywhere (still, though, beware). This place is beyond magic. Red, red earth, the most pastel-hued sunsets, and space like you never thought possible. Be sure to add this to your bucket list.

via Instagram @_femascha

Catching a plane, anywhere

Then … It was magical. A journey filled with colouring books and lollies we were legitimately allowed to eat.

Now … It’s the 40 minutes in traffic on the way to the airport, not even a slim chance of being upgraded, the price of airport coffee, not having lounge access (not even for an obligatory Instagram shot) and worst of all missing your flight because you may or may not have been eating your fourth croissant and listening to the latest Hamish and Andy podcast in the non-lounge lounge.

via Getty

And, road trips

Then … As a kid, these were pure hell. Having to sit shoulder to shoulder with the people you loved the most – and hated the most (often at the same time) – all in the one go. Also: Dad’s choice of radio station.

Now … We’re older and don’t have to listen to am radio (unless, of course, you want to). Best of all, you can choose not only the station, but the direction.

Go your own way.