Seek and find
We love road trips! Australia has always been on my list bucket list. Not exactly around the corner, but I knew for sure. One day I will go here. That desire has become stronger and stronger over the past few years. The influence of the Australian Instagram accounts I follow definitely has something to do with it. When the opportunity came my way to go to Australia to fly with Cathay Pacific I knew for sure. It would be a road trip from Sydney to Byron Bay. A route that, if driven in one go, takes 8,5 to 10,5 hours, depending on the route you take. Which route exactly did we take? I'll tell you all about it in this blog post and travel vlog!
Follow @yourlbb on Instagram
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟵, 𝟭𝟬, 𝟭𝟭 & 𝟭𝟮
This is one of those weekends that's packed with cool events!
Catch the last cherry blossoms, hunt for vintage treasures or feast on oysters.
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 71 tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this weekend… vintage, culture, markets or a new hotspot?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in the Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
𝗔 𝗯𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝗳𝗲́ 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆?
@eetcafe_de_reiger is the spot to remember.
Cozy, casual, and a seasonal menu. This one was on my list to share for a year and finally it's (almost) asparagus season again! 🤤
Another plus? Prices are very reasonable here!
📍 Eetcafé de Reiger
Jordaan, Amsterdam City Centre
Save this spot for when you're craving warm Dutch traditional dishes in the heart of Amsterdam.
And did you hear the same team took over Eetcafé van Beeren? I can't wait to go there too!
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
A cookbook from Grandma. Three Michelin stars. And a beautiful 70s villa in a quiet neighborhood in Bangkok, where you are welcomed as if you were at the chefs' home.
The Sühring brothers do not cook based on trends; they cook from memories. Of their grandmother's farm, of the flavors of their youth in Germany, and of techniques passed down through generations.
@relaischateaux invited me to experience Sühring during a solo lunch, and this is truly my ultimate definition of culinary self-care.
This was a surprising afternoon in Bangkok, where I ate the best German food I have ever tasted. And that in a city where I normally avoid European restaurants. Well, for @restaurant_suhring, you really want to make that exception.
Signature dishes that I still think back to regularly?
🍴 Labskaus with caviar
🍴 Enleta waffle with Pfalz vinegar
🍴 Game pie
🍴 Dry aged Duck
TIP: If you go to Sühring, reserve the seats at the kitchen bar so you have a view of the chefs at work!
Follow @yourlbb for more tips you can trust.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
#prinvited #bangkok #michelin #relaischateaux
In this reels I take you along for fine dining in Bangkok at the three Michelin starred restaurant Sühring.
This is one of the nicest free outings in the spring! Did you know that you can gather (or pick, for the connoisseurs 😉) oysters yourself in various places in the Netherlands? I’m in Zeeland for a bit this weekend, and if we can, we’ll go again.
📍In this video, I show where you can fill your bucket.
Comment oester for the comprehensive guide with all details about all 8 locations + handy tips and rules.
Important to know:
– Max. 10 kilos per person (≈ 1 bucket)
– For personal use only
– Do not scoop or scrape the soil
– Go at low tide
Handy to take with you:
Bucket, screwdriver, boots, work gloves, tea towel, clean clothes and garbage bags (for the oysters and dirty clothes).
And of course: also bring an oyster knife, lemon and champagne 🍋🥂Because you want to taste something right away!
The oyster season runs from September to about April / early May, so now that the water isn't so cold, this is the perfect outing.
In the full guide, I share exactly where you can easily find them without much effort. Leave a comment and I'll send it to you right away!
Who do you want to go oyster collecting with soon?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Happy weekend in Amsterdam! I made a list with 79 (!) fun 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟯, 𝟰, 𝟱 & 𝟲. This week's guide is packed because of Easter weekend and I saved the best tips for you in the guide on 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸.𝗺𝗲.
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with all 79 tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this weekend? Markets, Easter lunches, or a festival?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is the time to make plans for Easter in Amsterdam 👀🐣🐰
Are you team lunch or dinner?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Ps: More tips for Easter in Amsterdam, from restaurants to markets, on WWW.YOURLITTLEBLACKBOOK.ME
Anti-Guide, going around to God that a good thing is!
So close and perfect to go by train, with endless great places to visit.
Think: delicious food, nice hotels, coffee shops for your matcha ;-) and wine bars you actually don't want to leave. During our last trip, we added a few new favorites to the Antwerp Little Black Book once again.
Save this guide for your next city trip to Antwerp. Have fun!
**
⦁ @osakaantwerp
⦁ @mea.antwerp
⦁ @glouglouborgerhout
⦁ @le_pristine_antwerp
⦁ @hertog_jan_at_botanic
**Illegible**
⦁ @hotelfranq
⦁ @viaantwerp
⦁ @hoteldewittelelie
𝗗𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗞𝗦
⦁ @millesime.antwerp
⦁ @dogmacocktails
⦁ @cafe.bobby
⦁ @cafezeezicht
⦁ @billiesbierkafetaria
𝗖𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗘𝗘 & 𝗦𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗧𝗦
⦁ @bakkerijfunk
⦁ @polly.antwerp
⦁ @cafe.betty
⦁ @tinsel_antwerp
⦁ @caffenation_coffee
I
⦁ Roof farm @paktantwerpen
⦁ For thrift store finds: Antwaarpe Goeiemorgen
⦁ Shop at @frnchparisofficiel
⦁ For all fashion lovers @momuantwerp
⦁ Must-visit museum @rubenshuisantwerpen
💌What is your favorite hotspot in Antwerp that I absolutely have to visit next time?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
𝗛𝗲𝗿𝗲'𝘀 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝘀𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗯𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗺 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺
These are those few magical weeks each year when the city suddenly feels different. Everything is in bloom and all you want to do is be outside. Coffee to-go in hand, and just head out as soon as the sun shows up.
𝗕𝗹𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗺 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺
📍 Bloesempark – Amsterdamse Bos (the classic, yes it gets busy, but totally worth it)
📍 Rijksmuseum
📍 Fruittuin van West
📍 Westerpark
📍 Jozef Israëlskade
📍 WG grounds
📍 Nelson Mandela Park
📍 Bos en Lommerplantsoen
📍Amstelpark
By mid-April most of the sakura will already be gone, so if you want to catch it: this is your moment.
I'll definitely be doing a few more rounds before it's over.
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
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🌸 Discover the best places to spot cherry blossom in Amsterdam and enjoy the sakura in full bloom. 🌸
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟮𝟲, 𝟮𝟳, 𝟮𝟴 & 𝟮𝟵
This is one of those weekends where your only problem is how you're going to fit everything into this last weekend of March (yes already?!).
From a free event to try new Limited Subs at @ijveramsterdam to slow mornings, a market stroll (or two), maybe finally ticking off that new restaurant that's been on your list for weeks… and ending somewhere with a good glass of wine while telling yourself “just one more” 😉
𝗡𝗲𝘄-𝗶𝘀𝗵 𝗶𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺:
📍 @caferestaurant.meyer
📍 @kamer.bar
📍 @rondo.restaurant
📍 @weinlokalstern
📍 @enotecadeolyphant
📍 @tonton.noord
📍 @yusu.coffee (centre)
📍 @eetcafe.vanbeeren
📍 @kidamsterdam
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 47 tips straight to your DMs.
What's your vibe this weekend… markets, cocktails or a new hotspot?
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
3 x where the entire grill tip is located
Not too big,
everything within walking distance,
But plenty of nice hotspots!!
These services (and what clothing) are in the Netherlands perfuse for you to tip this line!
I've got massive spring fever, so it's time for a mini-escape: everything is within walking distance, there are lovely coffee shops, boutiques for shopping, and enough gems to discover in 48 hours ✨
Which city is at the top of your list for a spring getaway?
Let me know in the comments & save for your next girls' trip. 🖤
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
This is your sign to plan your next weekend brunch with friends in Amsterdam 👀
@ottolenghi_amsterdam is officially open and the new go-to hotspot for flavors of the Levant.
Open from breakfast to dinner and I can't wait to go back for a lazy weekend brunch with a table full of dishes and good conversations.
Save this one to your Amsterdam Little Black Book 📓!
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
____________________________
Ottolenghi Amsterdam is a new all-day restaurant near Museum Square by chef and entrepreneur @ottolenghi in @mo_hotels @conservatoriumhotel.
𝗔𝗺𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗮𝗺 𝗪𝗲𝗲𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲: 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵 𝟭𝟵, 𝟮𝟬, 𝟮𝟭 & 𝟮𝟮
It wouldn't be Amsterdam if the weekend wasn't packed with plans. Spring is in the air and I feel like new hotspots are popping up all over the city. HELLO @ottolenghi & @ottolenghi_amsterdam :-)
And yes, market season is officially back. Think vintage finds, design treasures and sunny terrace stops in between.
Plus, plenty of feel-good plans: from a Korean Sunday brunch @nikotin.restobar to a kid-proof pizza nights.
💬 Comment 𝗪𝗘𝗘𝗞𝗘𝗡𝗗 and I'll send you the full Amsterdam Weekend Guide with 67 tips straight to your DMs.
Curious… where are you going this weekend? ☀️
✖️✖️✖️
🖊️ @anne_de_buck
Follow @yourlbb for the best Amsterdam hotspots, new restaurants, weekend tips and travel inspiration in The Netherlands and beyond. Only Amsterdam tips? Then check out @yourlbb.amsterdam.
Stay at revamped motels like The MED
Rent a car at the airport
When we arrive in Sydney after a flight of almost 24 hours it is already evening. That is why I consciously chose to go via Sunny Cars Rent a car with airport pickup. Believe me, this is incredibly helpful after such a long flight. We received prompt assistance, and in no time, we were on our way to our first hotel with our all-inclusive rental car. This all-inclusive concept is one of the reasons I always choose Sunny Cars. Because you know everything is well-organized and you're covered for everything.
You can choose the services that are important to you. For example, we wanted an additional driver in our package and no risk of damage. A great feeling, because I have to say, driving on the left and dealing with kangaroos crossing the road can be quite a challenge sometimes. Another thing I really appreciate is that you can easily offset your CO2 emissions through Sunny Cars via GreenSeat.
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Road trip route Sydney to Byron Bay
It's fun to drive along the coast on the way there and through the hinterland on the way back, taking a detour and also visiting the Hunter Valley (a major wine region) and driving through the Blue Mountains National Park. Unfortunately, we didn't have time for that on the way back, but I will definitely do that next time. In this blog post, I'll focus on the route along the Pacific Highway and highlight the highlights along the way.
Please note that many smaller villages may be closed on Sundays. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check specific opening hours.
Bouddi National Park & Avoca Beach
About an hour and a half's drive from Sydney, you'll come across your first scenic stop. One of the things you'll immediately notice at this stop is how beautiful the beaches along the Pacific Highway are. This is especially true because there's often still so much greenery and jungle right behind the beach. In Bouddi National Park, you can explore several hiking trails. Around every corner, a different bay. So beautiful!
Newcastle
The first "big" city you encounter on your way from Sydney is Newcastle. You'll arrive there about an hour and 1.40 minutes after passing through Bouddi National Park. I didn't find it particularly special, but if you'd like to grab some lunch or stretch your legs, you can wander around Nobby's Lighthouse. At this stop, you'll immediately realize that lighthouses are a recurring theme throughout this tour.
Bennetts Head Lookout
Our next stop was Bennetts Head Lookout. These kinds of beautiful viewpoints are found at many different locations along the Pacific Highway on a road trip from Sydney to Byron Bay. What made our stop here extra special was the whale watching. In the distance. But still! A remarkable sight, seeing the water spouting out into the sea. Walk all the way to the point of this lookout for a beautiful view of the surroundings. You can reach Bennetts Head in about two hours from Newcastle.
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Port Macquarie Breakwall
A popular stop on the way from Sydney to Byron Bay is Port Macquarie. This town is known primarily as a haven for water sports enthusiasts. We only spent a short time there, making a pit stop at the Port Macquarie Breakwall. This walking path along the rocks by the water features numerous paintings. It takes about an hour and a half to get there from Bennetts Head.
Keep in mind that it gets dark much earlier in Australia. This means you'll be able to do and see less in a day if you don't want to arrive in the dark!
Crescent Head
WOW! An hour later, as we drive near our trendy motel in Crescent Head, it's already dusk. This is the prime time for kangaroos to move around, giving you a great chance of spotting them. Keep in mind that they're unpredictable and can easily cross the road, so don't drive too fast on the back roads. We're staying in Crescent Head at The MED Hotel, which also houses the delicious CH Dining restaurant, perfect for a bite to eat after a long day in the car. A great spot for breakfast the next day is Blackfish Coffee.
Crescent Head Lookout
Bellingen
My favorite stop on the way to Byron Bay from Sydney is the town of Bellingen. What a hidden gem. Although... it's incredibly busy. But it's only filled with locals! From Crescent Head, it's an hour and a half, and I'd definitely recommend taking the detour. Maybe even book a hotel or Airbnb for the night. A must-see is the concept store HYDE. Oh my, I still regret not buying more things here, things I thought I'd see in Byron Bay.
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Yamba
From Bellingen, it's a two-hour drive to Yamba. Another great place to spend the night is Yamba, with a great surf vibe! Unfortunately, much of it is closed on Sundays, so when we were there, it was a bit of a ghost town. Many of the restaurants don't open until the evening, so it's a good idea to make an extra stop here. Then you can enjoy the sunset from the rocks at Turners Beach. There's another lighthouse here, perfect for taking some photos. And right behind the beach, on the hills on Clarence Street, there are several lovely restaurants for dinner.
Turners Beach
Byron Bay
The last stop on our road trip was Byron Bay! We ended up staying here for five days, and a comprehensive guide for this destination is coming soon. I'd recommend renting a cool Airbnb. With a bit of luck, you'll find a lovely home-away-from-home on the beach. I'd definitely recommend that. The beaches here exude such tranquility in the off-season. The sunsets are magical. And the hotspots are countless in this overgrown bohemian surf town.
Byron Bay
Check out the Australia category for all the tips we've posted online about this road trip. Have fun planning your trip!
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH CATHAY PACIFIC: Planning a trip to Australia and want to make a stopover in Hong Kong, for example, or fly to multiple destinations? Use the Multi-City Tool to plan your ideal itinerary, including a stopover in Hong Kong. Go directly to the tool >>
YourLBB's latest lists
Do you have any tips for fun hotspots or sights along the route from Sydney to Byron Bay? Let us know via the button below and TIP THE EDITORS!
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Pssst... you can find more (travel) tips in my books!
- Feed Your Wanderlust – Travel Guide for a bohemian lifestyle
- staycation – 22 guides and shortlists for a holiday close to home
- Wanderlust – Urban Travel Style Guide
- The Amsterdam City Guide (Dutch) & The Amsterdam City Guide (English)
Great as a gift for yourself or someone who loves to travel as much as you do!
With love,
Anne
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