Australia

DESTINATIONS australia

Australia

A combination of spellbinding natural wonders, big city comforts, perfect weather and a laid-back approach to life make Australia one of the most appealing destinations for any traveller. Its youthful, energetic and cosmopolitan cities, from Sydney and Melbourne to more far-flung Perth and Darwin, offer tons of entertainment, nightlife and cultural activities, while the indescribable magnetism of the Outback, Blue Mountains, Great Barrier Reef and endless beaches epitomise the beauty of this expansive country and the diverse habitats of its unique wildlife. As one of the world’s most exciting epicurean destinations (not to mention, leading wine producers), it is a country to eat your way through.

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Cairns

People have been flocking to Cairns in search of treasure since the first gold rush. However, the prospectors of today come to mine the abundance of natural and environmental treasures that surround the city. With the tropical rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef in close proximity, Cairns attracts a young and intrepid crowd that adds to the vibrancy of this lively and welcoming city.

Hamilton Island

Situated amidst the 74 Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers an experience like no other: glorious weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, wondrous coral reefs, unique flora and fauna, divine food and wines, and a buzzing calendar of special events. With its laid-back luxury and activities almost too numerous to mention, Hamilton is the next island in the Great Barrier Reef you should visit.

Gold Coast

Australia’s Gold Coast is a diverse city, offering action packed days and fun filled nights to over 10 million visitors each year. Families, couples, business delegates and solo travellers will all find an experience to suit their needs and budget, as the Gold Coast serves up more attractions and venues than any other destination in the southern hemisphere. Get into the Gold Coast’s easy living lifestyle with 70 kilometres of sun, sand and surf at your doorstep plus 100,000 hectares of world heritage-listed rainforest just a short drive away.

Copyright: Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / “Canberra (AU), Parliament House -- 2019 -- 1745” / CC BY-SA 4.0 (cropped)

Canberra

Edged by mountain ranges, Canberra is a planned city built on vast limestone plains. Canberra is Australia’s national capital – seat of the Federal parliament and home to many institutions and national monuments. Four distinct seasons add to its charm and visitors quickly discover that it really is Australia’s hidden gem. The surrounding countryside contains historic and picturesque rural villages and a burgeoning cool-climate wine industry.

Townsville

With over 300 days of sunshine a year, Townsville is a very popular destination for sun seekers and provides easy access to the Great Barrier Reef. Townsville is situated in the dry tropical region and serves as a gateway to the Outback, wet tropical rainforest, with wetlands teeming with bird life. A number of tropical islands can be reached easily reached from Townsville. Boasting a 2.5 km beachfront area known as the Strand, it is an exciting and vibrant city to visit.

Wollongong

The spectacular escarpment and beautiful beaches make Wollongong idyllic for outdoor adventures and fun. Just 80 km south of Sydney, Wollongong is NSW's third-largest city. Skydive, hang-glide and paraglide above the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Surfing, water skiing, sailing and fishing are popular, too. Play golf on picturesque courses or relax on a beach. Rent a bike and ride along 60 km of cycle paths or walk on rainforest trails. After all the outdoor activities, visit the city’s splendid art gallery and enjoy quality cafés and restaurants.

Adelaide

Adelaide is a new city in an old land, founded as a British colony in 1836 and now the capital of South Australia. Today, its rich mix of diverse cultures has adapted a relaxed and cosmopolitan lifestyle amidst green parks as well as 30km of beaches stretching along its suburbs. The city is famous for its al fresco eating culture, and it is the centre of the Australian wine industry, with some of the best food and drinks in the world.

Ballina Byron

The Ballina/Byron region is delightfully diverse. It ranges from the quiet family world of Ballina to Byron Bay, the former hippy capital of Australia. Byron Bay was once a simple whaling station later rediscovered by surfers. Now, long after the 60s, the place is swarmed with tourists and celebrities wishing to experience this alternative town, which is still one of the most hippy destinations on the East Coast.

Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island is a World Heritage-listed paradise where at any time of the year, you'll be one of only 400 visitors. A holiday on this exquisite subtropical island promises a serene and unhurried experience. Getting around by bike or on foot is the way to go here. This idyllic island boasts a wealth of activities, including exploring its gorgeous beaches, tranquil lagoons, magnificent coral reefs, and lush rainforest regions, all of which display the island's stunning natural beauty.

Port Stephens

Blessed with 26 white sandy beaches, a vast blue bay and many tranquil inlets, Port Stephens is an idyllic destination about 2.5 hours' drive north of Sydney. With a marine park rich in diversity, the area is famous for its resident dolphins, crystal clear waters and towering sand dunes. Daily dolphin-watching cruises depart from Nelson Bay and the ocean is great for watching whales during their annual migration. Charming towns are framed by bushland, wetlands and volcanic peaks. Enjoy fresh seafood and local wines in delightful settings.

Broome

Broome is situated in North-Western Australia, a two and a half hour flight from Perth. The surrounding region is full of colour, culture and captivating scenery. Fiery red ochre cliffs contrast with the unspoiled turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, dinosaur footprints tell secrets of ancient days and a multi-cultural population provides arts, performances and inviting cuisine. The pearling industry has been an important part of the region's economy. Many places and shops offer visitors closer insight into this trade and the jewellery craft.

Newcastle

Newcastle is the hub of the Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales, located right at the mouth of the Hunter River. It is home to stunning beaches, a rich heritage of Victorian architecture and plenty of live music events for all tastes. There are also lots of places for recreation, hiking and outdoor adventures nearby. Whether you are looking for vibrant city life or a spectacular natural retreat, in Newcastle you will get it all.

Perth

A combination of big city comforts, good weather and a laid-back approach to life make Perth one of the most livable cities in the world. It is a youthful and cosmopolitan city. In terms of entertainment, nightlife and cultural activities it can stand up to even the fiercest competition. When it comes to food, Perth raises the bar, boasting fabulous beachfront restaurants, succulent seafood and some of the country’s best vineyards. An excellent public transportation system allows visitors to explore the city with ease.

Fraser Coast

Though famous for its paradise-like Fraser Island and the visiting whales, the Fraser Coast offers plenty of other amazing places and adventures. This picturesque region is centred on the twin cities of Hervey Bay and Maryborough. Check out the former gold mining town of Gympie and the beautiful nature surrounding Fraser Coast, both on land and in the water. The warm and mild climate means that the Fraser Coast is perfect to explore all year around.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is known by many as the unofficial capital of Central Queensland and as the official beef capital of Australia, with three million head of cattle calling the region home. With its historical buildings and tree-lined streets facing the Fitzroy River, Rockhampton is a great place to visit. Its location on the Tropic of Capricorn gives the city over 300 days of sunshine a year. Enjoy the beaches of the Capricorn Coast, or explore the region’s national parks and caves.

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast is undoubtedly one of Australia’s most beautiful regions with amazing beaches, stunning sunlight, picturesque hinterland and plenty of breathtaking views. The vast area, which extends along the golden Pacific coast for nearly 60 kilometres, offers a wonderful and immense mix of cultures, cuisine, nature and outdoor activities that are all ready to be explored.

Coffs Harbour

Coffs Harbour is a paradise of attractions, from thrilling skydives and underwater adventures to dolphin shows and waterfront dining. Nearby you can walk above a rainforest canopy in a World Heritage wilderness. Famous for its bananas, fish and surf, this coastal city on the NSW North Coast is at the southern edge of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a haven for turtles and great for diving. And relax on beautiful beaches in Coffs, as the locals call this much-loved destination halfway between Sydney and Brisbane and easy to get to by air, road or rail.

Whitsunday Coast

The sun, sea and sand all add together to make the Whitsunday Coast the ideal place to relax. Enjoy great atmosphere and nightlife in a spectacular setting. A beach lover’s paradise where everything is on hand to make your stay in this area one you won’t forget. Close to the Great Barrier Reef and just 26 km from the Whitsunday Islands, there is plenty to see. Backpackers and families alike will enjoy the many attractions such as the Airlie Beach Lagoon and the amazing croc safaris up the Proserpine River.

Mackay

Situated halfway between Brisbane and Cairns, Mackay is surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine white sandy beaches, and the fertile Pioneer Valley. It is home to one of Australia’s richest sugar cane growing regions. Beyond its shores, the Great Barrier Reef's awe-inspiring coral formations, diverse marine life, and serene islands offer a tropical paradise for all. With its outstanding dining options, picturesque parks, and thriving art scene, Mackay caters to every taste and budget.

Port Macquarie

Port Macquarie is a vibrant coastal city at the heart of a beautiful region teeming with outdoor adventures, gorgeous beaches and delicious fresh produce and seafood. A fascinating history dating back to the convict era adds to the allure. Australia’s biggest population of coastal koalas is here, on the mid North Coast of New South Wales. And the region is famous for its Hastings River oysters and its vineyards produce award-winning wines. From local culinary delights to splendid natural beauty, Port Macquarie is a picture-perfect gem to visit.

Sydney

Sydney is Australia's most famous city, with the majestic Sydney Opera House, the impressive steel arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the sparkling waterways and the white sands of Bondi Beach. Beneath this glittering surface, Sydney has many more enchanting layers to discover. This beautiful cosmopolitan city celebrates its cultural diversity and heritage, and passion for arts and sports. A temperate climate makes Sydney spectacular at any time of the year, and the city's friendly, casual attitude keeps visitors coming back Down Under for more!

Hunter Valley

The Hunter Valley, Australia's oldest and most visited wine region, is a stunning vacation spot. Indulge in delectable wine and cuisine, stay in stylish accommodations, and attend exciting events. With 150 top-notch wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, there's no shortage of wine-tasting opportunities. From being pampered at a valley day spa to playing golf at a championship course, you'll be greeted with a friendly country charm in the Hunter Valley.

Byron Bay

From World Heritage rainforest to sparkling beaches, the Byron Bay region on the NSW North Coast is full of natural wonders. The Aboriginal Arakwal people call it Cavvanbah - the meeting place. The area is also famous for its surf culture, alternative philosophies, organic food and outdoor adventures. Byron Bay's natural attractions are impeccable - humpback whales cruise past the headland, dolphins frolic in the bay and storms create rainbows on the mountains. People from all walks of life meet here, drawn by Byron Bay's vibrant energy.

Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains get their name from the natural blue haze created by vast eucalypt forests in this World Heritage area. Tiny droplets of oil released from the trees mix with water vapour and sunlight to produce the distinctive colour. Enjoy crisp mountain air, beautiful panoramas, charming villages, one of the world’s oldest cave systems, and exhilarating adventures in the Blue Mountains, near Sydney. You can even see dinosaur trees in the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden, Mount Tomah. This is a great Australian escape and a natural wonder of the world.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs, or 'The Alice', lies in the heart of Australia, and is unofficially considered the Outback's capital. While it was regarded as a 'dead heart' during colonial times, due to the surrounding barren landscapes, today both residents and visitors recognise the physical and spiritual importance of Australia’s Centre, and it indeed is beating alive with Aboriginal traditions and sacred sites, a vibrant local art culture with a fascinating pioneering history, and still incredible landscapes.

Christmas Island

Rising majestically from the tropical depths of the vast Indian Ocean, and surrounded by the azure waters of Asia's southern fringe lies a stunning natural wonder - Christmas Island ... Its name alone is intriguing and stirs interest. This tiny island in the Indian Ocean is a truly fascinating paradise, inviting you to uncover its remarkable surprises of nature in a one-of-a-kind environment. Venture to this awe-inspring island for an unforgettable getaway.

Jervis Bay

Embark on a journey to Jervis Bay, a stunning location on the untouched NSW South Coast. Admire the pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters of the marine park, inhabited by dolphins and seals. Watch in wonder as whales migrate along the coast. Take a stroll through the enchanting national parks filled with native wildlife and rich Aboriginal heritage. Indulge in water activities like kayaking, boating, fishing, diving, and surfing. This magnificent area offers the perfect mix of relaxation and breathtaking scenery, allowing you to choose your level of activity.

Brisbane

Brisbane is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, beautiful riverside parks, a busy cultural calendar, and lively nightlife. Queensland's capital city is surrounded by some of the state's major tourist attractions, and there is an abundant choice of day trips. Explore the coast for the golden beaches or go inland for some of the region's serene bushland — there is something for everyone here.

Darwin

Darwin is a thriving, prosperous and multicultural city with lively bars and wide-ranging international cuisine. It is lush, tropical, and the gateway to top-end outback adventures through the world heritage Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Darwin boasts an eclectic cultural mix: Asian music, food, and languages live side-by-side with aboriginal artistry, Australian beach culture, love of the outdoors, and a profound appreciation of cosmopolitanism.

Tasmania

Tasmania is an island at the edge of the world. Small enough to get around easily, big enough to explore diverse landscapes and make countless discoveries. In one day, wake to the cleanest air in the world, hear stories of early convict life, cruise soaring sea cliffs, sip whisky at cellar doors, and devour paddock-to-plate food. In Tasmania, anything’s possible.

Melbourne

Melbourne is an artistic powerhouse with a vibrant and multicultural soul. Nicknamed "Paris of the southern hemisphere", Melbourne is not only known to be Australia’s cultural hot-spot, but is also famous for its major sporting events and its culinary delights from all across the world. With its high-rise city centre and far-reaching suburbs, it is hard not to be dragged in by the life of the capital of Victoria, but day trips to the wild nature of the state are also extremely attractive.

Snowy Mountains

Australia’s highest peaks are in the Snowy Mountains, where there’s thrilling downhill skiing and snowboarding during the snow season. Lively towns and resorts in this alpine region in southwest NSW are also popular destinations in warmer months for hiking, horseriding, kayaking, mountain biking and fishing. When spring melts the snow into cascading waters and wildflowers bloom, streams shelter trout and attract many fly fishermen. Vineyards in this beautiful region produce excellent cool-climate wines, and fresh produce is on sale at farm gates.

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Australia

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