Destination Australia

Australia – the land of the kangaroo, Vegimite, crocodiles, surfers, barbecues and men with corks on their hats. But aside from the stereotypes, ‘the land down under’ offers more variety than almost any other island on Earth (well, it is the biggest one after all). It has everything from coral reefs, to modern cities, to weird and wacky animal species, to sport on sport on sport. With so many amazing destinations to choose from, here is our short list of the 10 places in Australia that you just have to see.

Sydney

Australia’s most famous city (although not it’s capital as people often think) is home to more iconic images than almost any other location. You can watch La Traviata at the Opera House, try surfing at Bondi beach, take a guided walk over the top of the Harbour Bridge, hop around the city by ferry, or take a day trip to the stunning Blue Mountains.

The Red Centre

Adventurous travellers who want to see ‘the real Australia’ might like to visit the Red Centre, named after the dusty red desert that spans this huge outback region. It’s home to remote Alice Springs, with its wild camels and tough locals, which is a common stopping off point on the way to Uluru, the site of most significance to Australia’s aboriginal community.

Melbourne

Though less showy and not as famous as Sydney, Melbourne is often ranked higher on the index of the world’s most liveable cities. What it lacks in iconic images it makes up for in history, beautiful architecture and culture. Often called the ‘coffee capital of the world’, Melbourne is a great departure point for the visually stunning Great Ocean Road.

Kakadu

In the far north of Australia, within the Northern Territory, lies the gem of Australia’s national parks. Kakadu is home to saltwater crocodiles, water buffalo, frill-necked lizards, stunning waterfalls, and prehistoric aboriginal rock art. It can only be visited in the dry season (May to October) as in the rainy season it is largely impassable.

Perth

All alone on the west coast of Australia, Perth is the sunniest state capital and the best departure point for exploring this quieter side of Australia. Rottnest island, the only place you can see a quokka (a marsupial about the size of a cat), is just a short ferry ride away while other natural wonders include The Pinnacles and Ningaloo Reef (the second largest reef in the world). Wine lovers can visit Margaret River to sample some of Australia’s finest tipples.

Adelaide

Known as ‘Addi’ to the locals, Adelaide is on the less travelled path for foreign tourists but well worth a visit thanks to the stunning destinations nearby. Just a short journey away you can find the Barossa Valley, home to some of the best wines in South Australia. Those who like to get away from the hustle and bustle can rent a boat and sail up the Murray River. And Kangaroo Island, home to over 65,000 kangaroos is just a few hours away.

Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Towards the tip of Australia’s east coast, Cairns is a place that most people visit as a stopping off point to visit one of the world’s natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef. Stretching for over 2,300 kilometres and home to nearly 3,000 reefs and 900 islands, this ‘rainforest of the sea’ is one of the best places in the world to experience scuba diving.

Brisbane

Capital of Queensland, Brisbane is famous for its warm sunny weather, koalas, and sponge cakes called lamingtons. It’s also the setting off point for Fraser Island, the largest sand island on the planet and home to the only remaining pure-breed dingoes. Just a couple of hours drive away you can find Byron Bay, famous for its hippy culture, outstanding beaches and thriving arts scene.

Whitsunday Islands

Just a 12 hour drive from Brisbane (which isn’t far if you’re an Australian) is the region of Queensland known as the Whitsundays. Its stunning 74 islands are a haven for whale watchers, fishing enthusiasts and sailors. Overnight cruises in small groups allow you to have some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery almost exclusively to yourself.

Tasmania

Australia’s largest island is one of its least visited destinations, despite its breath-taking natural beauty and outstanding natural products. Here you can go on river cruises, visit Tasmania’s temperate rainforests, and even see the famous Tasmanian devils (the size of a small dog but highly aggressive) in a wildlife sanctuary. And don’t forget to try the famous Tasmanian heritage cheeses!

With so much diversity and so many places to see, it’s no wonder that Australia is regularly voted the world’s greatest island destination by travel writers. So what’s stopping you? Book your flight today!