Rolling hills, national parks and state forests surround gorgeous Dungog. Its main street is an urban conservation area. Notable historic buildings include the primary school built in 1843 and designed by colonial architect Edmund Blacket, who also designed the University of Sydney and St Andrew's Cathedral in Sydney. The Dungog Cinema has a Spanish mission-style façade and is the oldest operating purpose-built cinema in Australia.

This mix of shop and museum is a mecca for Lord of the Rings fans, who flock to this venue to see behind-the-scenes insights and all sorts of this legendary movie memorabilia, as well as purchase various souvenirs and collectables.

A trip to Iraq is often driven by a passion for history, and Ancient Babylon, located roughly 100 kilometres south of Baghdad, is a key attraction. Since accommodation near the site is limited, most visitors opt for a day trip from the capital. To reach Babylon, head to the Alawi car park, locally referred to as the 'garage', and ask about shared taxis or minivans heading there. The journey costs no more than 15,000 Iraqi dinars and takes about two hours. These vehicles typically drop passengers a few kilometres from the entrance, so you may need to arrange a local taxi or ask nearby residents for assistance. Currently, entrance to the archaeological site costs 25,000 Iraqi dinars, approximately $18 USD. Payment by card is possible, but it's advisable to carry cash, as foreign cards may not always be accepted. Inside, the ruins reveal a fascinating glimpse into the past. The main area consists of castle-like arches leading to wide terraces, alongside the remnants of the ancient gardens and in the distance, Saddam Hussein’s hilltop mansion looms. Access to the mansion is not guaranteed, as its opening appears to depend on the day and circumstance.

Jervis Bay is one of the most popular fishing destinations on the NSW South Coast. The rock platforms on the northern side of the bay are renowned for land-based game fishing for species such as marlin, tuna and kingfish. Inside the bay, chase bream, whiting and flathead from many of the beaches. Experienced local fishing operators offer great fishing adventure tours in and around the bay.