Don't Have the Time (or Funds) for Euro Summer This Year? These Closer-to-Home Escapes Still Deliver

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The European summer fantasy is hard to beat, but if a 24-hour flight (and the price tag that comes with it) isn't quite on the cards this year, there's good news. You don't actually have to travel halfway across the world to tap into that holiday feeling. A short flight (or even a quick interstate hop) can get you surprisingly close, especially if you know where to check in.

Marriott Bonvoy offers hotels in locations across the globe that will have you feeling relaxed as soon as you set foot in the lobby. Right now, you can save 10 percent on Marriott Bonvoy stays booked until June 30. Travelling as a Marriott Bonvoy member earns you points and benefits that accumulate over time. It's free to join and rewards you for taking a holiday. Register* by Sunday, April 26, and you can earn 2,500 bonus points** (i.e. more rewards) as well as save 10 percent on your booking. So, if Europe's off the cards this year, here's where to go (and stay) instead.

Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort

A Short Flight Away: Pacific Islands & New Zealand

When the goal is to truly switch off, the Pacific Islands are hard to beat. For Australians, the flight time is considerably shorter than usual international trips. With their beaches, warm hospitality, and sunshine, you can still get the summer fix you're craving (without going to Italy).

When it comes to accommodation, resorts rule the switch-off brief. At Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, you can choose from lounging by the beach, teeing off on its 18-hole Championship Golf Course or swimming in its lagoon-style pools. Over in Samoa, Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey's Hotel & Bungalows is a historic resort located in Apia. Featuring a blend of culture, adventure and hospitality, the hotel offers you a gateway to the island's natural beauty and rich, local traditions. Both Fiji and Samoa are roughly 4–6 hours from major East Coast cities, which means you can make a trip over without spending two annual leave days on an aeroplane.

Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort

New Zealand is another destination that feels like a proper international getaway, yet it's just a short flight from Australia (depending on where you are, of course). Roughly a 3–4-hour flight from Sydney and Melbourne, you can make a long weekend of Auckland if you do it properly. Whether you're looking for a city jaunt or are after wineries and beach swims, Auckland has it all. Take a stroll through the Viaduct Harbour precinct for the best in food and drink, or board a ferry to Waiheke Island to check out the city's stunning nature and vibrant art scene.

If you're after a central base, Four Points by Sheraton Auckland places you in the heart of the city so you can spend more time soaking up the city and less time working out bus schedules. While Euro summer is a four-week minimum endeavour, a long weekend in Auckland could be the holiday you (and your bank account) need.

Four Points by Sheraton Auckland

For Something Close to Home: Australian Staycations

While some travellers don't consider it a "real" holiday until you get your passport out, most countries aren't as massive as Australia. Holidaying locally is often the most realistic and achievable travel option for people. For some, even a weekend city staycation can scratch that Euro summer itch without the heavy lifting. Melbourne may be the most European of them all. From trips to the National Gallery of Victoria to shopping in Armadale and coffee in Fitzroy, there's something for every type of traveller. Fill your creative cup by travelling to Melbourne (or booking a city staycation if you're a local) and selecting hotels that suit your holiday preferences.

AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank

AC Hotel Melbourne Southbank offers sweeping city views and is located in the inner-city neighbourhood of Southbank, making it super easy to travel to the heart of the city. But, if you want some time away from the hustle and bustle, AC Hotel also has a luxe heated infinity pool and two on-site restaurants, Sorolla and the sleek Bar Triana. Are you more of a theatre buff? Stay at The Westin Melbourne, a prestigious property situated right next to the Regent Theatre and just steps from trams and Flinders Street Station.

Close by at the 5-star hotel Melbourne Marriott Docklands, enjoy river views and a tranquil and rejuvenating sauna experience on level 15. The hotel is located right by Melbourne's DFO shopping precinct if you're after some retail therapy, as well as Marvel Stadium for easy access to world-class sports and concerts.

Sydney Harbour Marriott

If you're keen to explore Australia's top dining and entertainment, consider a trip to Sydney. From catching a performance at the Sydney Opera House to easy access to child-friendly attractions like the SEA LIFE Aquarium, a Sydney holiday can be a way to get a change of scenery without taking too much time off. If you're staying in the centre, the Sydney Harbour Marriott at Circular Quay will have you front and centre to all of the city's hot spots. Enjoy an eco-friendly Kayak Tour through the iconic Sydney Harbour before heading back to the hotel to relax with a harbour view. Closer to trendy neighbourhoods of Redfern and Surry Hills, stay at Four Points by Sheraton, Sydney and visit the eclectic White Rabbit Gallery or head into Chinatown.

Finally, with its warmth and outdoor lifestyle, Brisbane could be an excellent Euro summer swap this winter. In recent years, Brisbane has become one of Australia's most exciting food and wine destinations, with a myriad of restaurants opening each year. It's easy to create a packed itinerary that balances foodie date nights in Fish Lane and sunsets with friends at Felons Brewing Co.

W Brisbane

Overlooking the Brisbane River in the CBD, the W Brisbane leans into bold design and playful luxury. When it comes to unwinding, the AWAY Spa offers mineral-rich vitality pools, saunas and steam rooms, while The Lex brings a slice of New York-style dining to the riverfront.

So, leave the long-haul (and overpriced) flights this year and consider a winter holiday that's a bit closer to home. From sunny escapes that are a few hours' flight away to city adventures in Australia, you can rest and relax without the Euro summer price tag.

*T&Cs apply. To save 10 percent on stays until June 30 2026. For more details, visit Stay With Marriott.

**T&Cs apply. Earn 2,500 bonus points per stay with registration by 26 April 2026. To register, visit Marriott Bonvoy.

To receive both bonus points and 10 percent off, you must be a Marriott Bonvoy member. It's free and easy to join here.

Image Credit: Supplied

Lead Image: Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort