I have just booked my first official trip, to Norfolk Island for January next year. It may not be overseas but it still sort of counts since I have to leave from the International Terminal in Sydney.

Well, to be truthful, I didn’t actually book it, my best friend, Matt did. He has done all the work so far. It will be a post 40th birthday celebration for us.

I have not been away for more than a weekend since December 2019, so this is huge. We will be going for five days, four nights which I think should be ample time.

So I have been doing a little research for when we go away. But if you have been before and have some tips; please hit me up.

• Norfolk Island is part of Australia, uses Australian currency and is under Australian rule however I have heard there is some confusion over there

• Norfolk Island is located approximately 1000km off the east coast of Australia and located in the Pacific Ocean

• From 1 July 2016, Australians no longer have to take their passport

• Norfolk Island is well known for its UNESCO World Heritage convict buildings and Norfolk Pines

• There is only 2G on the island, so I am not expecting great phone reception. You can use international roaming (I don’t think so) or use wifi at the clubs

• You can walk around the island, and they say stop at the Norfolk Island National Park and Botanic Gardens. Other options include hiring a car or a bike. There is no public transport, but Ubers are available

• Apparently, we can find green parrots in Palm Glen, which is at the end of Selwyn Pine Road

• The best time to visit is from October to March when the rain is less heavy, the sunshine is more frequent and the temperature pleasant

• You can play golf at the scenic golf course but think I might pass on that

• If hiking is your thing you can go up to Mt Pitt for an amazing view or Captain Cook Monument and Lookout. That’s on my list

• Sunsets are incredible at Puppie’s Point or Anson Bay Reserve. Sunrises and sunsets are always must see’s on any trip away

• Things to do include visiting the convict homes, the cemetery and swim and snorkel at Emily Bay Lagoon or Slaughter Bay

• We are going to stay at Endeavour Lodge in Burnt Pine which is the largest town on Norfolk Island, has the best reviews and views

Have you booked your first extended trip once lockdown is over and we are free to travel again? Or have you been to Norfolk Island before and have some tips? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.