Whitsundays: this wasn’t the plan - It was even better

Australia challenges you to be flexible, to surrender to the moment, and to trust that even when things don’t go your way… maybe that’s exactly how it’s meant to be. On my recent trip, I toured a bit of Australia with an entrepreneur and one of our key stops was the iconic Whitsunday Islands.

The plan? A scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef, combined with rafting and snorkeling. The reality? Stormy weather and high waves, which meant the rafting was canceled.

What we got instead of rafting, however, was nothing short of magical. We started with the scenic flight: a small plane that flew over the crystal clear water, past the reef structures and of course the famous Heart Reef. This view can only be admired from the air — it is protected, small, but incredibly impressive. The contrast of the reef against the apple-blue-sea-green water felt like a watercolor in motion.

In exchange for the cancelled rafting trip, we were given a boat trip to Whitehaven Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is known for its pristine white sand and breathtaking coastline. The sun played tag with the clouds while we enjoyed a few hours of silence, beauty and pure enjoyment. Swimming was possible — but only with a stinger suit, as we were in the middle of the jellyfish season.

And if the weather permits: definitely stick your head under water! The Great Barrier Reef is a true paradise for divers, but also as a snorkeler you will be rewarded with an unparalleled underwater world full of colorful coral and impressive marine life. It is an experience you absolutely do not want to miss. And if you can, definitely book an overnight stay on one of the islands in the Great Barrier Reef, such as Hamilton Island, to really dive into the magic of this unique area.

• Tips:
  
  If you travel during jellyfish season (approximately October to May): only swim with a stinger suit.
  
  Must-do: Book your scenic flight in advance — it's the only way to see Heart Reef from the air.
  
  Bonus: Be open to change. Sometimes Plan B brings the best memories.

Photo: the Heart Reef - Whitsundays - Great Barrier Reef - Australia