One by one we glided into Heathrow Terminal 3, hardly able to contain our excitement as we gathered in the Qantas lounge, ready for our first flight. The lounge features a cocktail and wine bar upstairs, with a buffet offering an excellent selection of hot and cold salads. Downstairs is the restaurant with an a la carte menu and bar dedicated to celebrating gins of the world. This truly was an excellent start to our epic journey!

As we queued to board, whispers shivered down the line... did she say... seat change?? One by one we joined the premium economy queue, heading up to the top deck! When boarding we were offered a complimentary glass of bubbles and a bottle of water that conveniently slots just underneath the seat. We also received amenity kits, which included dental kits, lip balm, socks, ear plugs and eye masks.

Once in our seat we settled down to sleep in our newly acquired matching Qantas pyjamas. Usually reserved for business class clients, they were the envy of the rest of the cabin! We tucked ourselves in with a steep recline, quilted blankets and plump pillows, ready for the long flight ahead. The seats feature a 19" width for added comfort and netted footwells to ensure our feet stayed elevated while relaxing.

Upon arrival into Singapore, we were met by Ian, our jolly local Trailfinders representative. After a speedy freshen up at our hotel, we headed out into the city in search of a hawker centre for some delicious local food! Singapore is a melting pot of cultures with a huge array of attractions, it really is a city with something for everyone!

For our second leg of the journey, we travelled in the Economy cabin. We found Qantas service to be unrivalled, it is clear they have invested in training their staff to be professional but uniquely friendly and approachable. The inflight entertainment system is extensive, with lots of sought-after box sets, documentaries and films to watch.

The aircraft also featured a snack bar at the back of the plane where passengers can help themselves to rice crackers, pour themselves water and even pick up additional amenity packs. With over 60 domestic routes, there really is no better way to explore Australia than with this iconic Aussie brand!

After a long night of travel, we arrived at Connellan Airport and were whisked across the outback to 5★ Voyages Sails in the Desert. Next up, we each had the most satisfying shower of our lives (rainfall and regular!!) before being guided around the resort. In addition to Sails in the Desert Hotel, The Ayers Rock Resort offers a variety of other accommodation in Uluru, including self-catered apartments, which would be perfect for family stays.

Top Tip: During your stay at the Ayers Rock Resort make sure to visit the inspirational Gallery of Central Australia. Home to over 350 works of art from Indigenous artists.

We finished the evening with a delicious barbecue in the Outback Grill, with meat and wine stretched out on plates as far as the eye could see.

Morning came and it was time to say goodbye to Uluru. Slathered in sun cream, fly nets at the ready and armed with bottles of ice-cold water, we braved the Outback and set off for Kings Canyon to hike the rim. This was an invigorating but not too challenging 6km hike, worth the reward of spectacular views of the red sediment and towering canyon walls.

TOP TIP: For those visiting The Red Centre, the winter months (May to September) will see significantly fewer flies. The flies are a nuisance and fly nets are required but it is all part of the Outback’s charm!

Our return journey ran very smoothly. We experienced the same friendly and professional service on the outbound legs of the journey. The touchdown in Changi was swift, just an hour and 10 minutes, which allowed us time to stretch our legs and return to the aircraft in a leisurely fashion. 

Changi is one of the best airports in the world for a stopover. The terminal features a rainforest themed shopping centre, including spectacular water features and a bridge crossing over the top. Although just a short stop for us, it would be easy to spend many hours exploring this unique departure hall. Security is right before the gate and there are water fountains to fill reusable water bottles, just before boarding the plane. 

We settled in for the last leg of our journey, reminiscing on our incredible adventure! Uluru truly is a magical place, and it was a privilege to have spent so much time there. We came away with a vast knowledge of Australia and our fantastic partners. This really was a trip of a lifetime!