As the world’s 6th largest country, Australia offers some of the most diverse travel experiences available today, but the country can take months to explore – trekking through national parks, losing days on picture-perfect beaches and exploring Australia’s extraordinary list of must-see attractions. Any Australia travel guide will highlight the importance of planning. Things to consider are, of course, the two big natural attractions – the Great Barrier Reef and the Uluru rock. The cities are all worthy of exploration, and you’ll find that each has its own distinct personality thanks to the waves of post-war immigration from both Europe and Asia. Head to Sydney and take in an opera in the iconic Sydney Opera House, and then take to Melbourne to indulge in the European-style cafe culture and the eye-catching St Patrick’s Cathedral. Brisbane is a lively city with plenty to do, including the illuminating Queensland Museum and the pretty City Hall – though nature lovers should take a trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to get up close and personal with a loveable koala bear. Adelaide is charming and old-fashioned, while Perth in the west is somewhat isolated – don’t miss Swan Valley or the Pinnacles Desert with its collection of limestone formations that rise from the sand in the Nambung National Park. When the cities begin to run dry, take a drive down the Great Ocean Road for an unmatched coastal roadway which stretches from Torquay to Warrnambool and perhaps a look at the Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Park in Cairns and the awe-inspiring Edith Falls, where you can take a cruise down the scenic Katherine Gorge.
Before setting out, be sure to check the official Australia travel guidelines to ensure you’re aware of entry requirements, weather conditions, and regional safety updates. Time your visit to coincide with the Sydney Festival in January for three weeks of festivities that spread all over the city – from parks to theatres and cinemas to bars – or alternatively visit Brisbane for the biennial (even years) Brisbane Festival, which sees the city host a vibrant and colourful collection of performing arts events, live music, food and drink and fireworks.
No matter how long you are in Australia, you always feel like it is never enough. Australia is a vast country comprised of many things, from brilliant cities like Sydney through to the red deserts and the sea life of the Great Barrier Reef. With efficient domestic flights, exploring its diverse regions is easier than ever.
The southeast of Australia—specifically Victoria, New South Wales and a part of South Australia—provides an extraordinary range of city, coastal and wildlife. With a temperate climate, and famously unpredictable weather patterns, the region is well suited to travel year-round.
Conjuring images of dazzling turquoise waters, vibrant coral, and turtles, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is a World Heritage marvel—and yes, sections affected by bleaching still thrive in many places. Depending on your preference, your visit could range from quick boat trips to multi-night island stays.
