Launched in 2014 in partnership with Qantas, AWOL was all about inspiring 18-to-35-year-olds to travel the world.

The site covers daily travel news, and provides readers with features and destination guides that combine photography, video and in-depth travel journalism in an effort to showcase unique places in Australia and around the world.

In 2020, Junkee Media took full control of the brand… just in time for global travel to come a grinding halt. Trying to think quickly, the AWOL team pivoted to become ‘Activities Without Leaving’, aiming to help young Aussies live their best lockdown lives with recipes, lifestyle tips and activities to help people get through isolation.

 
 

Take A Thrilling Road Trip Through New Zealand’s North Island

I’m setting off on a five-day trip through the North Island, flying into Auckland and looping my way down across the island through Waitomo – where the glow-worm caves are – to Rotorua and on to Taupo, ending up in Napier near the Hawkes Bay wine region.

 
 

Exploring The Luxury Eco-Resort In Queensland That Pioneered A Sustainable Accommodation Movement

One of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges Of The World, Thala Beach Nature Reserve earns its place on the list, offering pared-back luxury within nature. This family-owned property is not only a sustainable eco-resort, it helped create the blueprint for all eco-resorts — and it’s right here in Tropical North Queensland.

 
 

I Spent 15 Days With The Nomadic Families And Eagle Hunters Of Western Mongolia

Our group’s visit is unplanned, the result of a chance encounter on our trek through western Mongolia. Even though we’re strangers, the nomad welcomes us into his ger with sweet khailmag and bowls of warm milk tea, traditionally made with water, green tea, salt and any milk except mare’s.

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Where we're headed...

Now that things are finally getting back to normal, we’re super excited about the future of AWOL. We’re going to be right by Australians’ sides – and in their pockets – as they prepare to take off again. We want to be young Aussies’ friendly travel guide, wherever they are, at home or around the world.