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Zen Garden
Zen Garden

From Sydney to Cairns: An Overview

 

Join the Foundation for Hospital Art on a 7-day journey along Australia’s stunning East Coast, where natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation await. Beginning in Sydney and ending in Cairns, this exclusive trip features exciting activities and immersive cultural experiences, with handpicked adventures and time to unwind—capped off with unforgettable group dinners in spectacular tropical settings. This journey is more than a trip—it’s about exploration, connection, and shared moments that make every day unforgettable. Welcome to Australia.

Image by Louis Meeckers
Image by Kevin Woblick

Thursday, April 9th

Morning:

  • Early morning arrivals on own

  • 11:30 AM Depart for lunch

  • 12:00 PM Seafood lunch at Doyles

Afternoon:​

  • 2:00 PM Depart lunch for Ferry

  • 2:15 PM Ferry Watsons Bay to Circular Quay

  • 3:00 PM The Rocks, the City & Opera House (outside) Walking Tour with guide

  • 4:30 PM Back at hotel

Evening:​

  • Dinner on own

  • Overnight at Sydney Harbour Marriott

 

Dress -​ Day: Comfortable Travel Attire, comfortable shoes for walking

sydmc-bridge-view-6184-hor-clsc.avif

Friday, April 10th

Morning:

  • 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM Breakfast at hotel

  • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Transfer & PaintFest (Sydney Children's Hospital)

Afternoon:

  • Boxed lunches provided

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM PaintFest touch ups

Evening:

  • 5:45 PM Meet in lobby to transfer to dinner

  • 6:00 PM Dinner at Eleven Barrack

  • 8:30 PM Depart Eleven Barrack for hotel

  • Overnight at Sydney Harbour Marriott

 

Dress - Day: Comfortable travel clothes Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for walking, light coat or scarf for cooler nights

blue mountains.jpeg

Saturday, April 11th

Morning / Afternoon:

  • 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM Breakfast at hotel

  • 7:25 AM Group Activity: Blue Mountains Full Day Tour​

Afternoon:

  • Lunch on Activity

Evening:

  • 6:30 PM Arrive back at hotel

  • Dinner on Own

  • Overnight at Sydney Harbour Marriott

 

Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes for walking, light coat or scarf for cooler nights.

Image by Gilly Tanabose

Sunday, April 12th

Morning:

  • 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM Breakfast at hotel

Afternoon:

  • Lunch on own

  • Afternoon at leisure - Ideas for leisure time:

    • Visit Rocks "Open" Market​

    • Shopping in the city

    • Tour inside of the Sydney Opera House (reservation required)

Evening:

  • 5:00 PM Group Depart hotel for group Sydney Sunset Harbour Cruise

  • 7:30PM Arrive back at Circular Quay and return to hotel

  • Overnight at Sydney Harbour Marriott 

 

Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart elegant lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes, light coat or scarf for cooler nights. 

​

Image by Shino Nakamura

Monday, April 13th

Morning:

  • 6:00 AM - 9:30 AM Breakfast at hotel

  • Bag pull - have your bags packed & ready for bellmen to pick up before transferring to Cairns

  • Hotel Check-out & depart for your flight​

  • 10:30 AM Depart hotel

  • 12:45 PM - 3:55 PM Flight from SYD to CNS

Afternoon:

  •  Arrival to Crystal Brook Riley & check-in

Evening:

  • 6:00 PM Deadly After Dark Tour

  • Dinner at Ochre

 

Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: smart casual lighter layers like long-sleeved shirts, dressy blouse or collared shirt, trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes, light coat or scarf for cooler nights

Image by BehindTheTmuna

Tuesday, April 14th

Morning:

  • 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Breakfast at the hotel

  • 8:00 AM Depart hotel for Great Barrier Reef Full Day Tour

Afternoon:

  • Lunch on activity

Evening:

  • 5:30 PM Arrive back at Cairns Marina; return to hotel

  • Dinner on own

 

Dress - Day: Active / swimsuit, cover up, flip flops/sandals, towel, SUNGLASSES, sunscreen, hat.  Evening: Cairns is very casual. Trousers, a simple skirt, or a casual dress, comfortable shoes, light coat or scarf for cooler nights. Men can wear shorts if they want and no jacket is required unless wanted. 

Image by Matteo Panara

Wednesday, April 15th

Morning:

  • 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Breakfast at hotel 

  • 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Round trip transfer & PaintFest

Afternoon:

  • Boxed lunches provided

  • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM PaintFest touch ups

Evening:

 

Dress - Day: Active / casual wear Evening: Dinner at Prawnstar is VERY casual. This is a fun dinner on board a fishing trawler.

Image by Brianna Marble

Thursday, April 16th

Morning / Afternoon:

  • 6:30 AM - 10:30 AM Breakfast at hotel

  • Bag pull & scattered hotel departures.

  • Check out of hotel

  • 10:30 AM Meet in lobby to transfer to airport

  • Flights back to home cities​

Evening:

  • Return to home cities.

​​

Dress -​ Day: Comfortable travel attire

Trip Communications & Documents

Updates and communications about your trip will be delivered via email up until your trip. If you have any questions, please email Rhonda Roberts at rhonda@hooplatravel.com. If you are not receiving any communications, please be sure to check that your email is correct on your registration and to check your spam folder. Final trip documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to the March 1st departure.

This pre-trip packet will include: 

Program Booklet

Includes detailed itinerary, dress codes, guest list, accommodations, and helpful trip info.

Leave at Home Card

A handy reference card with contact info and your travel schedule to share with family or a contact back home.

Luggage Tags

Custom luggage tags to help identify your bags and ensure smooth handling during group travel.

Air

  • Please advise airfares as they are booked as this dictates arrival and departure transportation.​

  • For flights to Australia, you will arrive 2 days AFTER you leave. One day travel and one day time change. Depart on Thursday arrive Saturday morning.

  • Going back to the USA, you will arrive the same day you leave Australia

Program Inclusions

  • Accommodations at Sydney Harbour Marriot and Crystalbrook Riley

  • Internal one-way flights from SYD to CNS.

  • Group activity (7)

  • Daily breakfast at the hotels (7)

  • Lunch (3)

  • Dinner (4)

Passport Requirements

  • U.S. Citizens: Must have a valid passport with at least 3 months of validity beyond the planned date of departure from Australia.

  • An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required prior for travel to Australia. Click HERE to apply.

  • Yes all US citizens are required to have an ETA Visitors visa – like the US ESTA.

  • Here are the details to find it. The cost is approx. USD$14

  • You can apply for an Australian Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) through the Australian ETA app, available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Search for "AustralianETA" to download the correct app, as it is the only way to apply for an ETA. 

  • Download the app: Find "AustralianETA" in the Apple App Store or Google Play store to download it to your mobile device.

  • Follow the in-app instructions: Once downloaded, open the app and follow the on-screen guidance to provide your information and make your application.

  • Note on cost: There is a non-refundable service fee of $AUD20 to lodge the application through the app.

Cairns-Lagoon-©-Tourism-Events-Queensland.jpg

Traveler’s Guide to Australia

In March, Sydney daytime temperatures are around 73°F with cooler evenings around 60°F.In Cairns, daytime temperatures average 86°F with lows around 72°F.

Sydney operates on Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), which is 16 hours ahead of Eastern Time. Cairns operates on Australian Standard Time (AEST) and is 15 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. If it's 12 Noon in Atlanta, GA it is 3pm the next day in Cairns and 4pm the next day in Sydney.

The official currency is the Australian dollar (AUD). It’s a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for tips or small purchases. ATMs are widely available, and you should request to be charged in AUD rather than U.S. dollars for better exchange rates.

U.S. travelers will need a type I plug adapter (two flat pins in a V-shape and a 3rd vertical grounding pin). Australia runs on a 230V / 50Hz power supply so a voltage converter is needed and VERY important for US devices. Buy the 240 (instead of 110 voltage).

All credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are most commonly accepted. A credit fee may be charged for international cards. Small vendors, family-run restaurants, or rural stops may be cash-only, so it's good to carry some AUDs.

Tipping is not realy required except at restaurants. 10% for exceptional service is a good rule of thumb. For group bookings, all taxes, tips, and gratuities for meals, bellmen, housekeeping, activities and are already covered in your itinerary.

Australia is a very safe destination for tourists. Just follow basic precautions—watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and use hotel safes. Tap water is safe to drink. For emergencies, dial 000 for national protection & rescue center or 131 444 for local police.

In Australia, the most popular ways to get around are by Uber and DiDi both widely used for ride-hailing services across major cities. Traditional taxi companies like 13Cabs are also available through a digital app.

Suggested Packing List

  • Passport

  • Comfortable travel attire

  • Active wear T-shirt / tank top, shorts, leggings, comfortable shoes. See the activities page for more information based on your choice of activity.

  • Comfortable walking shoes. 

  • Lightweight clothing: Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen

  • Smart / Resort Casual: Men: Collared shirts, dress shorts or slacks, and closed-toe shoes. Women: Sundresses, skirts, blouses, or elegant separates with dress sandals or flats.

  • Swimwear

  • Cover-up: Sarongs, wraps, or lightweight dresses for the beach or pool.

  • Sweater / wrap / jacket for evenings

  • Hat: Wide-brimmed or cap for sun protection.

  • Sunglasses

  • Toiletries 

  • Personal medications

  • Mosquito repellant for Queensland

  • Tote bag or beach bag / small backpack or crossbody for excursions

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Travel adapter (type-I) / converter

  • Chargers / portable battery pack

  • IMPORTANT NOTE: ALL guests should have sunglasses and 50+ sunscreen. Sydney will be getting cooler and not too hot, but still wear sunscreen as the sun is much whiter in Australia.

  • Evenings will be a little cooler. Queensland is much warmer than Sydney. Check the weather prior to departure for packing.

Activities

Each day offers a new way to experience the beauty, culture, and adventure—your way. You might explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Blue Mountains, stroll through Sydney’s historic Rocks District on a guided walking tour, or take in the shimmering skyline on a Sunset Harbour Cruise. For a deeper look into Australia’s heritage, join the immersive Deadly After Dark Tour, where local guides share Aboriginal stories and history under the stars. Then, venture north to experience the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, where vibrant coral gardens and marine life create an unforgettable underwater adventure. No matter your picks, each experience brings you closer to the heart and spirit of Australia.

Blue Mountains Tour

7:25 AM - 6:30 PM

Escape the city on this full day tour and journey into the breathtaking Blue Mountains, where rugged cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and cascading waterfalls create one of Australia’s most spectacular landscapes. Enjoy panoramic views from Echo Point, marvel at the legendary Three Sisters rock formation, and breathe in the crisp mountain air as you explore scenic trails and charming mountain villages. Along the way, visit quaint cafes or local wildlife parks where kangaroos and koalas steal the show. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and Australian charm—all just a short drive from Sydney.

blue mountains.jpeg
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Rocks Historic Walking Tour

2:30 PM - 4:30 PM

Explore Sydney’s vibrant history and stunning harbour on a 2-hour guided city tour. Wander through The Rocks and Circular Quay, discovering the city’s colonial charm and modern energy before stepping inside the iconic Sydney Opera House for an insider’s look at its world-famous architecture and cultural legacy.

Cap it off with breathtaking views of the Harbour Bridge and glittering waterfront.

Deadly After Dark
Tour & Dinner

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Experience Cairns in a whole new light on this immersive evening tour celebrating the region’s rich Aboriginal culture and storytelling traditions. As night falls, local Indigenous guides share ancient Dreamtime stories, songs, and spiritual connections to the land beneath the tropical night sky. You’ll learn the meanings behind traditional art, music, and customs while enjoying the warmth of authentic cultural hospitality. It’s a powerful, eye-opening journey that blends history, heritage, and heart—an unforgettable way to connect with the true spirit of Australia.

Tjapukai-Aboriginal-Cultural-Park.jpg
Image by BehindTheTmuna

Great Barrier Reef

8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Set out on an unforgettable full-day journey to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Cruise across crystal-clear waters to vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and marine life. Spend your day snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on deck, soaking in the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. With expert guides, delicious onboard lunch, and endless ocean views, it’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in Australia’s tropical paradise.

Sydney Harbour Marriott

Experience the very best of Sydney from an unbeatable location at the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay. Situated just steps from the shimmering waters of Sydney Harbour and within easy walking distance of iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this elegant 5-star hotel delivers the perfect blend of comfort, luxury and city-centre convenience.

Accommodations

30 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

+61 2 9259 7000

vinhhien.luu@marriotthotels.com

Check-in: 3:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Indoor Pool Fitness Center 3 Restaurants Wi-Fi Air Conditioning Laundry Service* Espresso machine & minibar Pillow menu In-room tablet with hotel app LCD TV Complimentary bottled water daily *Additional costs may apply

Amenities & Facilities

Crystalbrook Riley

Located right on the Esplanade in vibrant Cairns, Crystalbrook Riley offers a mix of resort-style luxury and relaxed tropical charm. With the harbourfront, city centre and reef-departure terminals all within easy reach, it’s perfectly placed for both exploring and unwinding.

131/141 Esplanade, Cairns City QLD 4870, Australia

+61 7 4252 7777

eleme.riley@crystalbrookcollection.com

Check-in: 2:00 PM

Check-out: 11:00 AM

Amenities & Facilities

Lagoon-style outdoor pool Man-made beachfront 24-hour Fitness facility Spa Rooftop Bar Wi-Fi Air Conditioning Business Center Minibar & coffee/tea-making facilities Flatscreen TV Bathrobes & luxury toiletries Concierge service *Additional costs may apply

Contact Information

For questions & more information please contact
Ressie Barrett
+1.303.475.8598 | ressie@hooplatravel.com
Rhonda Roberts
+1.310.713.4321 | rhonda@hooplatravel.com

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