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We all seem to be busier than ever these days, which makes the time we spend on holiday all the more precious. How you choose to spend your days off can make all the difference between a year that passes by in a blur, and one that’s filled with unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of far-flung destinations, an epic road trip or a series of well-planned mini breaks, we’ve worked out how to combine your paid annual leave with Australian public holidays to maximise your time off in 2024/25.
Side note: we realise that there are some state variations to these dates, so we recommend checking here to see which apply to you.
Book four annual leave days (22-25 January) and get a nine-day break over Australia Day:
Saturday 20 January to Sunday 28 January
Our favourite place to visit in January: Antarctica. The extended daylight hours mean you’ll have ample time to appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and incredible biodiversity of this remote and beautiful part of the world.
Luxury Antarctica cruises
Book four annual leave days (5-8 March) for nine days off over Labour Day weekend (WA only):
Saturday 2 March to Sunday 10 March
Book four annual leave days (12-15 March) for nine days off over Labour Day weekend (VIC & TAS only):
Saturday 9 March to Sunday 17 March
Our favourite place to visit in March: Central Otago, New Zealand. Vibrant autumn landscape transforms into a mosaic of vibrant colours as the leaves on the vineyards turn shades of red and gold, creating a breathtaking backdrop for scenic drives and hikes. Central Otago’s charming towns, like Cromwell and Arrowtown, host various events and festivals in March, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a nature lover, or a history buff, Central Otago in March promises an enchanting and diverse experience for all.
Book four annual leave days (2-5 April) and get a 10-day break over Easter:
Friday 29 March to Sunday 7 April
Our favourite place to visit in late March/early April: Madrid, Spain. The Spanish capital comes to life, and locals lounge in charming plazas, basking in the spring sunshine while sipping on cortados and enjoying tapas. Combine your Spanish sojourn with a Mediterranean cruise and you’ll get to experience the scenery, culture, history and people of a variety of incredible destinations before the summer peak season arrives.
Book four annual leave days (22-24 April and 26 April) for nine days off over the ANZAC Day weekend:
Saturday 20 April to Sunday 28 April
Our favourite place to visit in late April: Japan. The tradition of hanami makes Japan one of our absolute favourite countries to visit in spring. Join the crowds flocking to city parks, temple gardens and mountain onsen to enjoy this spectacular sight.
Osaka Castle and full cherry blossom
Book four annual leave days (7-10 May) for nine days off over Labour Day weekend (QLD & NT only):
Saturday 4 May to Sunday 12 May
Our favourite place to visit in May: Memphis, United States. From the world-class live music performances of the Beale Street Music Fest to the city’s World Championship BBQ Cooking Content, the ‘Memphis in May International Festival’ is a month-long celebration of the southern city’s favourite pastimes.
Book four annual leave days (11-14 June) for nine days off over King’s Birthday (national, except WA & QLD):
Saturday 8 June to Sunday 16 June
Our favourite place to visit in June: Norway. Early summer in this northernmost part of the world means long, sunny days of almost constant daylight in which to enjoy hiking, kayaking and whale watching. Every evening, the landscape of glaciers and fjords is bathed in the soft golden glow of the midnight sun, creating incredible conditions for anyone with a love of nature photography.
Lofoten islands in Norway
Book four annual leave days (24-27 September) for nine days off over King’s Birthday (WA only):
Saturday 21 September to Sunday 29 September
Our favourite place to visit in September: Argentina. From major cultural events such as ArteBA, to outdoor adventures in the heart of Patagonia’s Lake District, spring is a magical time of year to visit Argentina.
Book four annual days (8-11 October) for nine days off over Labour Day weekend (ACT, NSW & SA) or King’s Birthday (QLD):
Saturday 5 October to Sunday 13 October
Our favourite place to visit in October: Vietnam. In most regions, the monsoon rainy season has come to an end and the dry season is beginning. The country’s diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of Hanoi to the stunning Halong Bay, the lush rice terraces of Sapa and the vibrant Mekong Delta, are at their scenic best during this time of year.
Floating fishing village and rock island in Halong Bay, Vietnam
Book seven annual leave days (23, 24, 27, 30, 31 December and 2 & 3 January) to get a 16-day Christmas/New Year break:
Saturday 21 December 2024 to Sunday 5 January 2025
Our favourite place to visit in December: New York City, US. The ‘city that never sleeps’ is one of the most memorable places on Earth to mark the end of another year: a world-class blend of tradition, festivity, and exhilarating energy that seems to be powered entirely by twinkling lights and tinsel.
Christmas In New York
Still wondering what to do with all that lovely time off created by our annual leave hacks? We suggest you check out our latest deals to see if inspiration strikes. For more information and personalised advice, have a chat with one of our wonderful personal travel managers.
We at Travel Managers Australia recognise the traditional owners of the country where we live and work. We recognise and celebrate the diversity of Indigenous people and their enduring cultures and connections to the land and waters of New South Wales.
