The only country in the world to occupy its own continent, Australia is one of the most fascinating and diverse — both environmentally and socially — nations on the planet. Isolated by a vast ocean and untouched by European explorers until the 1600s, it remains a relatively sparsely populated country of unparalleled contrasts and exceptional beauty. Its rich rainforests, harsh deserts and more than 500 national parks are home to animals found nowhere else in the world, including kangaroos, koalas and platypus. Containing 10% of the world’s biodiversity, Australia also has the largest coral reef on the planet, comprising almost 3,000 individual reefs and nearly 1,000 islands.
The heritage of Aboriginal Australians showcase one of the world’s oldest continuous cultures. British settlers (many of them convicts exiled as punishment) began arriving in 1788. Today nearly one quarter of the British commonwealth’s population were born elsewhere, giving cities like Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane an air of international excitement.
Whether seeking wilderness or world-class arts cuisine, groups will find the “Land Down Under” truly worthy of its bucket-list status.
Can’t Miss Destinations
Sydney
Boasting one of the world’s most recognizable skylines, cosmopolitan Sydney is the first stop for most travelers to Australia. The nation’s largest city offers a dazzling blend of nature, architecture and urban experiences in vibrant neighborhoods that range from trendy to historic. For an unforgettable experience, spend a few hours at the iconic Sydney Opera House before embarking on a guided climb of the Harbour Bridge for incomparable views of the city. Then relax on world-famous Bondi Beach, perfect for surfing, sunbathing or people-watching. Nature lovers won’t want to miss experiencing unique flora and fauna at the Royal Botanic Gardens and Taronga Zoo.
Uluru
A massive red sandstone dome jutting more than 1,100 feet above the desert in the Red Center region of Australia, Uluru is a national icon with sacred meaning to the indigenous Anangu population. At the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, visitors can gain insight into the geology and cosmology of the largest monolith in the world. While climbing Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock) is no longer allowed, the intrepid may explore the base, which is almost six miles in circumference. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular, as the sandstone glows with vibrant shades of red and orange.
The Great Barrier Reef
Whether scuba diving, snorkeling, or observing via helicopter, hot air balloon, seaplane or glass-bottom boat, visiting Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is a must. Stretching more than 1,400 miles along the continent’s eastern coastline, the reef boasts a rainbow of coral formations, more than 1,600 species of fish and six of the planet’s seven sea turtle species. For warm water and maximum visibility, May through October is the best time to visit, but visitors January through March will have the opportunity to observe sea turtles hatching before they make their voyage into the Coral Sea.
Signature Experience
Australia’s Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has the world’s steepest railway, as well as raised boardwalks through rainforests, waterfalls, wineries, caves and much more. For an unforgettable experience, book a tour with an Indigenous guide who will share traditional stories and history. It’s an easy day trip from Sydney, but you’ll probably want to stay at least one night.
Unforgettable Flavor
Australia introduced avocado toast and flat whites to the world, and their vibrant café culture is big on baked goods such as the Lamington. The traditional treat comprises a square of lighter-than-air vanilla sponge cake that is filled with cream and jam, then robed in chocolate icing and coated in dried coconut.
Hidden Treasure
With penguin colonies, sea lions, spectacular rock formations, and of course, kangaroos, Kangaroo Island is one of the best nature destinations in the world. From five-star resorts to rustic camping, there’s an accommodation to fit every taste — even a lighthouse keeper’s cottage!
Favorite Souvenir
Ninety-five percent of the world’s opals originate in Australia. Aboriginal Dreamtime lore says the gems occurred when the colors of the rainbow touched the earth, and these sparkling beauties make a lovely souvenir. Not a jewelry
person? Find a meaningful masterpiece from a First Nations artist or get a gorgeous pair of boots crafted from genuine kangaroo leather.
