Move over schoolies, it’s time for the ‘poolies’ to let their hair down


Schoolies is no longer just about school leavers taking a holiday to celebrate their new found freedom, with one in two parents also planning a trip to mark the end of their child’s education according to our latest Wotif.com survey of 1000+ Year 12 parents.

Tropical beach destinations dominated for mums and dads looking to celebrate, with Bali taking out the number one hot spot, with Hawaii and Noosa close behind.

The good news is it’s not too late, with plenty of options available on Wotif.com no matter what type of ‘poolie’ you are:

Bali: For the zen poolie
Steer clear of the traditional schoolies hot spot Kuta Beach and retreat for the Balinese countryside, filling your days with massages, bike riding, yoga, cooking classes and local organic produce. You’re sure to come back rejuvenated and ready to take on the next stage of life sans school fees.

Stay: At the The Samaya Ubud you’ll have the privacy of your own pool villa, on-site spa treatments overlooking the Ayung River and sunrise yoga three times a week.

Waikiki Beach: For the party poolie
Given the legal drinking age in the USA is 21, you’re unlikely to come across any Australian school leavers on the Waikiki Beach strip. From making your way through the cocktail list at happy hour, to late night karaoke, this is the ultimate spot for parents looking to kick up their heels and have a good time.

Stay: Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort is located right on the beach and is home to evening karaoke, making it the ultimate place to release your inner pop or rock star.

Hunter Valley: For the gourmet poolie
Known for its food and wine, just a few hours from Sydney, the Hunter Valley is the perfect destination to grab a group of fellow parents and toast to the end of the school years over cheese and a good glass of wine.

Stay: Cypress Lakes Resort villa style accommodation is centrally located and caters well to groups, with the added bonus of its own golf course and swimming pool, which will keep you entertained in between wine tasting.

Cradle Mountain Tasmania: For the poolie looking to avoid social media
Nothing says escapism like heading straight for Tasmania’s fresh mountain air. Think limited phone reception and barely there internet, aka removing the temptation to scan Facebook to see what your schoolie is up to.

Stay: Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge is conveniently located next to Cradle Mountain National Park and is a great spot to base yourself, with the added bonus of an on-site alpine spa which is no doubt welcome after a day of hiking.

Fiji: For the poolie keen for the pool bar
If your idea of relaxation is spending lazy days relaxing by the pool with a good book and a sneaky cocktail or two, then you can’t beat an island holiday in Fiji

Stay: The adults only Tokoriki Island Resort has no teens or even toddlers in sight. Take your pick from the resorts main infinity pool overlooking the ocean, or your own private pool villa.

*The Wotif® survey was conducted in October 2016 with more than 1000+ Australian year 12 parents.

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