escape to luxury

If your New Year's resolution is for more travel and adventure, then we have the inspiration for you! While school holidays are still underway, for many it's back to work and dreaming of your next getaway. Avoid the post-holiday blues by planning your next escape.

As we kick off the New Year, it's time to reflect on all our new and noteworthy additions that our team have been busily curating for you. From luxury beach houses in Byron Bay to the secluded hideaways in the Dandenong Ranges we've found plenty of unique stays to surprise and delight even the most discerning of travellers.

Airlie Beach once considered the exclusive domain of backpackers is emerging as a luxury getaway to rival the islands. Airlie is so accessible, with direct flights from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane it's the perfect base to explore all the Whitsundays has to offer. Unlike the islands, all the major attractions depart from Airlie Beach, so you have your pick of the adventure activities.

You all know The Urban List, the curated guide to your life in the city; trusted recommendations of where to eat, drink, shop & more. A Brisbane success story, The Urban List started in 2011 and has since expanded to include Sydney, Melbourne, Perth and Auckland. We asked founder, Susannah George her favourite tips for exploring Brisbane... 

alluxia: What do you love most about living in Brisbane?

The best way to enjoy the magical time between Christmas and New Year is to lose yourself in a good book and let time stand still. With a long hot summer ahead, pack these books and enjoy the summer holidays and let the world around you slow down and take a breath.

The Alluxia Awards are a chance to shine a spotlight on some of the most incredible escapes and celebrate the unique, special and most stylish places to stay in Australia.

We've personally inspected hundreds of holiday houses and boutique hotels this year, verifying for quality to ensure the alluxia collection includes Australia's best.

How is it Christmas already? Where did 2016 go, but aren't we quietly happy that it's going! Do you feel that way too?