Long stretches of white, sandy beaches, hidden alcoves, crystal clear waters and the mic-drop - the 2,300km long living mosaic, The Great Barrier Reef. But not only is Far North Queensland home to one of the world's most iconic natural wonders, you can also experience ancient tropical rainforests and tablelands. Pure alchemy.
- Please introduce yourself - who are you and where are you right now?
- I'm Deb Tan, known to my boys and mates as BeeBee and I run Aquabumps alongside my husband Uge. I look after the commercial side of our business, so brand partnerships, collaborations, content activations and travel partnerships. Right now I’m on the mid north coast working remotely and surfing with my boys over the school holidays. We just got back from an amazing trip to far North Queensland staying at a few of Morris Escapes properties - all of which are breathtakingly beautiful.
Where did you travel to and what drew you to explore those particular places?
- Travel has always been a big part of what we do at Aquabumps. We’re lucky enough to visit destinations to create content, whilst also sharing their stories with our community,
- Recently, that took us back to North Queensland to work with Morris Escapes, staying at Mount Mulligan Lodge, Orpheus Island, and Pelorus Private Island. We’d visited Orpheus years ago and absolutely loved it, so it felt natural to explore more of their properties. What draws us back is how distinctly Australian the experience feels — warm, genuine hospitality, exceptional food, and adventures that are shaped around the landscape and how you want to spend your time.
- Each property is deeply connected to its surroundings, encouraging you to slow down and really experience what makes each place special. Private, beautiful, and thoughtfully run, it’s Australian luxury at its best.
Can you recount a memorable meal from your recent trip? Where was it, and what made it special?
The chefs across the properties are exceptional — food and wine are a real highlight. At Mount Mulligan Lodge, the menus are themed by country, changing daily. One lunchtime was Japanese: fresh sashimi, beautiful salads — incredible food in such a remote setting. Paired with genuinely warm, attentive service, it felt like heaven.
Can you recount a memorable meal from your recent trip? Where was it, and what made it special?
The chefs across the properties are exceptional — food and wine are a real highlight. At Mount Mulligan Lodge, the menus are themed by country, changing daily. One lunchtime was Japanese: fresh sashimi, beautiful salads — incredible food in such a remote setting. Paired with genuinely warm, attentive service, it felt like heaven.
- Is there a region in Australia everyone should experience at least once? Why?
- The Great Barrier Reef off Orpheus Island is unforgettable. Jumping off the back of a boat into deep blue water, hearing the quiet crackle of living coral — it stays with you. Add a bit of fishing on the way back and it’s perfect for the whole family.
- Is there a region in Australia everyone should experience at least once? Why?
- The Great Barrier Reef off Orpheus Island is unforgettable. Jumping off the back of a boat into deep blue water, hearing the quiet crackle of living coral — it stays with you. Add a bit of fishing on the way back and it’s perfect for the whole family.
Was there a moment that made you stop and really take it all in?
Day 2: Marfa -> New Mexico -> Tucson, Arizona
Was there a moment that made you stop and really take it all in?
What three packed items did you rely on the most?
My Akubra hat, bathers, and my State of Escape Compass kit crossbody bag — perfect for everyday essentials.
- What does “escape” mean to you?
- Inspiration. Breathing space. Slowing down. Adventure. Being fully immersed — in the people, culture, history and place.
What three packed items did you rely on the most?
My Akubra hat, bathers, and my State of Escape Compass kit crossbody bag — perfect for everyday essentials.
- What does “escape” mean to you?
- Inspiration. Breathing space. Slowing down. Adventure. Being fully immersed — in the people, culture, history and place.
Any trusted travel tips for transit or adjusting to a new location or time zone?
Any trusted travel tips for transit or adjusting to a new location or time zone?
- What makes travelling in Australia unique?
- Australia is incredibly diverse — from landscape to culture — and nothing beats authentic Aussie hospitality. I also love learning more about Australia’s history and First Nations culture; their deep connection to country and community along with their spiritual ceremony's is something to truly admire.
- What makes travelling in Australia unique?
- Australia is incredibly diverse — from landscape to culture — and nothing beats authentic Aussie hospitality. I also love learning more about Australia’s history and First Nations culture; their deep connection to country and community along with their spiritual ceremony's is something to truly admire.
- Where do you hope to travel next?
- Surfing Sri Lanka’s south coast is high on the list, along with Fiji. And my whole family is already plotting a return to Pelorus Island — it’s that special. I always have a bag half-packed, ready for the next adventure.
- In one word, what state of mind do you seek?
- Freedom.For me, it’s the ability to move, explore, and live lightly — and slowly.
- Where do you hope to travel next?
- Surfing Sri Lanka’s south coast is high on the list, along with Fiji. And my whole family is already plotting a return to Pelorus Island — it’s that special. I always have a bag half-packed, ready for the next adventure.
- In one word, what state of mind do you seek?
- Freedom.For me, it’s the ability to move, explore, and live lightly — and slowly.