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.
Adelaide
Adelaide is a new city in an old land, founded as a British colony in 1836 and now being the capital of South Australia. Today, its rich mix of diverse cultures exists together in a relaxed and cosmopolitan lifestyle, having both many 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.
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.
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 discovered by surfers. After the sixties, the place is nowadays swarmed with tourists and celebrities wishing to experience this alternative town, which is still one of the most hippy destinations on the East Coast.
Blue Mountains
Official partnerThe 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.
Brisbane
Brisbane is a lively, cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, beautiful riverside parks, a busy cultural calendar and a great nightlife. Its fantastic weather year-round has allowed outdoor activities to thrive and develop a vibrant café culture. The city is surrounded by some of the state’s major tourist attractions, and there is an abundant choice of daytrips whether it be to the coast for the golden beaches, or inland for some of Queensland’s serene bushland, there is something for everybody.
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.
Byron Bay
Official partnerFrom 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.
Cairns
People have been flocking to Cairns in search of treasure since the first gold rush. However, today prospectors 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.
Canberra
Edged by mountain ranges, Canberra is a planned city built on vast limestone. 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.
Christmas Island
Official partnerRising 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.
Coffs Harbour
Official partnerCoffs 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
Hunter Valley
Official partnerAustralia’s oldest wine region is a beautiful destination. From fine wine and gourmet food to elegant accommodation and fabulous events, a Hunter Valley getaway offers a taste of the good life. Australia’s most visited wine region is home to 150 top-class wineries, vineyards and cellar doors. Whether you’re wine tasting, being pampered in one of the valley’s day spas, or teeing off from a championship golf course, you’ll enjoy a warm country welcome in the Hunter Valley.
Jervis Bay
Official partnerExplore beautiful Jervis Bay within the unspoilt region of the NSW South Coast. Discover fine white sands and crystal clear waters in a marine park home to dolphins and seals. You’ll also marvel at majestic whales as they migrate along the coast. Enchanting national parks are great for bushwalking and are filled with native wildlife and fascinating Aboriginal heritage. Enjoy water activities including kayaking, boating, fishing, diving and surfing. This magnificent region offers relaxation in spectacular settings where you can do as much or as little as you choose.
Lord Howe Island
Official partnerLord Howe Island is a World Heritage-listed paradise where at any time you’ll be one of only 400 visitors. A holiday on this exquisite subtropical island is relaxing and unhurried; getting around by bike or on foot is the way to go and there are plenty of activities to discover. Explore its beautiful beaches, lagoons, coral reefs and rainforest areas to discover a world of immense natural beauty.
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. Out to sea, The Great Barrier Reef’s colourful coral, fish and secluded islands provide a tropical playground for everyone. Excellent restaurants, beautiful parks and a vibrant art scene ensure there is something in Mackay for every taste and budget.
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.
Newcastle
Newcastle is the hub of the Hunter Valley wine region, located right at the mouth of the Hunter River. It is home to stunning beaches for all kinds of activities, 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 adventure 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 easily, despite its remote location.
Port Macquarie
Official partnerPort 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.
Port Stephens
Official partnerBlessed 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.
Rockhampton
There is no doubt to Rockhampton’s status of Australia’s Beef Capital. However, Rockhampton offers more than just beef. Located on the Tropic of Capricorn, the city is surrounded by coastal and rural landscapes, and offers opportunities for both relaxed and active stays. On over 300 days of sunshine, you can enjoy the beaches of the Capricorn Coast, or explore the region’s national parks and caves. With its historical buildings and tree-lined streets facing the Fitzroy River, Rockhampton is a great place to visit.
Snowy Mountains
Official partnerAustralia’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.
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 straddles the golden Pacific coast for nearly 60 kilometres, offers a wonderful and immense mix of culture, cuisine, nature and outdoor activities that are all ready to be explored.
Sydney
Official partnerSydney 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!
Tasmania
Official partnerTasmania 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.
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 is a gateway to the Outback, wet tropical rainforest, with wetlands teeming with bird life and a number of tropical islands. Boasting a 2.5-km beachfront area, known as the Strand, it is an exciting and vibrant city to visit.
Whitsunday Coast
Sun, sea and sand all add together to make the Whitsunday Coast the ideal place to relax. Enjoy a 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 16 miles from the Whitsunday Islands, there is plenty to see. Backpackers and families alike will enjoy the many attractions such as Airlie Beach lagoon and the amazing croc safaris up the Proserpine River.
Wollongong
Official partnerThe 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.