Australia

Queensland

The Sunshine State is a destination that blends natural beauty with vibrant cities. Brisbane (Meanjin), the state capital, boasts a dynamic arts scene, excellent dining, and beautiful parks along the river. A highlight is the Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world’s largest coral reef system, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Nearby, the Whitsunday Islands offer idyllic beaches and water activities. Inland, the Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world, is home to diverse wildlife and picturesque trails. The Gold Coast is renowned for its surfing beaches and theme parks, while the Sunshine Coast features charming coastal towns and national parks.

New South Wales

NSW embodies the essence of Australia’s natural beauty and rich culture. Sydney (Warrane), the state capital, is renowned for its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge, as well as its stunning beaches like Bondi. Beyond the city, you can explore diverse landscapes, including the stunning Blue Mountains, the volcanic mountains and beaches of Byron Bay, the charming Hunter Valley wine region, and Wollemi National Park. NSW offers outdoor adventures, ranging from hiking and surfing to whale watching, while food enthusiasts can savor local produce and exquisite wines.

Victoria

Victoria is renowned for its cultural richness and stunning landscapes. Melbourne (Narrm), the capital, is celebrated as the country’s cultural hub, featuring a vibrant arts scene, excellent dining, and unique laneways adorned with street art. The Great Ocean Road offers one of the most scenic drives in the world, showcasing breathtaking views and the iconic Twelve Apostles. Wine lovers can explore the Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula for exquisite tastings and gourmet dining. Outdoor enthusiasts will find diverse landscapes, from the majestic Alps to the tranquil beaches of Gippsland, perfect for hiking and surfing. Phillip Island is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts, famous for its enchanting penguin parade. This combination of urban flair, natural beauty, and culinary experiences makes Victoria a must-visit destination.

South Australia

South Australia offers a rich tapestry of natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and exceptional food and wine experiences. From the Fleurieu Peninsula's stunning coastal vistas to the Barossa Valley's picturesque vineyards, this state is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike. Adelaide (Tarndanya), the charming capital, is known for its festivals, art galleries, and lively markets. Whether exploring the rugged beauty of Kangaroo Island, tasting world-class wines, or enjoying the diverse wildlife, South Australia has something for everyone.

Western Australia

Stretching from the stunning coastline along the Indian Ocean to the rugged red outback, Western Australia offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Discover the vibrant city of Perth (Boorloo), known for its beautiful parks, dynamic arts scene, and beautiful beaches. Venture further afield to explore the renowned wine region of Margaret River, indulge in outdoor adventures in Kalbarri National Park, marvel at the unique sandstone formations of the Bungle Bungle Range, or dive and snorkel at the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.

Northern Territory

Home to iconic sites like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park, the Northern Territory showcases extraordinary natural beauty and a rich Indigenous culture. You can explore ancient rock art, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Darwin (Garramilla), the state’s capital, is a vibrant waterfront city with a tropical climate and a diverse food scene. Adventure awaits with opportunities for hiking, crocodile spotting, and immersing yourself in Indigenous culture through guided tours and workshops.

Tasmania

Tasmania offers diverse experiences that showcase its unique beauty. National parks like Freycinet and Cradle Mountain serve as havens for outdoor enthusiasts, alongside pristine beaches, lush rainforests, glacial valleys, wild rivers, and more. Discover the charm of Hobart (Nipaluna), where a lively arts scene and delicious local cuisine await. Visit historic sites like Port Arthur to learn about the island's rich heritage.

Australia Capital Territory

The heart of Australia and home to its capital city, Canberra, features iconic landmarks like the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House, which showcase the country’s rich history. With its charming neighborhoods and excellent dining, Canberra is a must-visit destination. While there, also visit Namadgi National Park, which offers hiking, wildlife spotting, and breathtaking views.

When to Visit

Australia has seven unique climate zones that can be divided mainly into tropical and temperate zones.

Tropical

The northern third, which includes North Queensland - Cairns, Port Douglas, and the Whitsundays- as well as the northern regions of the Northern Territory - Darwin, Kakadu, and Katherine- and the Kimberley region of Western Australia, forms the tropical zone. This tropical zone has two seasons: the tropical summer from November to March and the dry season from April to October.

The tropical summers from November to March are hot, humid, and wet. They feature sudden downpours accompanied by lightning and thunder. Of course, the upshot of that is lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls.

The dry season from April to October is the ideal time to visit this part of the country. Visitors can expect beautiful sunny days, warm temperatures, and little humidity.

Temperate

The rest of the country forms the temperate zone and has four seasons.

Summer (December - February) is a time for many outdoor activities and festivals. The Australian beaches come alive. However, the Red Center of the country will be very hot.

Autumn (March to May) is a very comfortable season for visiting most places in Australia.

Winters (June to August) are relatively mild. The temperatures in the Red Center are low at night but mild throughout the day. Snow and skiing can be found in the mountains in NSW.

Spring (September to November) is also a very comfortable season for visiting most places in Australia.

Travel Options

Australia is a vast country with a land mass stretching nearly 2,500 miles from east to west and 2,000 miles from north to south. The distances between places of interest can be considerable, so careful planning is essential. That said, the country offers a variety of transportation options, including an extensive air network connecting the major cities, a range of coach routes with various passes, excellent road networks with cars and camper vans available for rent, and two rail lines: one running from Sydney to Perth via Adelaide and another linking Adelaide to Darwin. The country also features various accommodation options, from boutique hotels to eco-lodges, farm stays, camping/glamping, and huts and lodges. All of this provides an excellent setup for custom travel itineraries.