Plan a trip to Australia

Picture this awesome combination of sights –tanned surfers chasing the perfect wave on endless golden beaches, some of the world’s oldest, lushest, and most spectacular rainforests, and, towering above, snow-covered mountainous peaks. Where else in the world do you meet people who are so friendly and full of zest for life that they’ve adopted the slogan, "No worries mate!" as their approach to life? And the language… so full of charming slang that no one else will understand, and the accent…so incredibly delightful.
This is Australia, my friends!

For those who are planning their first visit to Australia, what do you need to know? There are countless outstanding experiences to be had– here’s just a taste of what awaits on this vast continent with its extraordinary variety of landscapes and cultures.

Nature lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to dive among the endless colorful corals and tropical fish in the Great Barrier Reef – the longest coral strip in the world- off the coast of Queensland or to hike in the dramatic Blue Mountains, a preserved site, whose name derives from the bluish hue which rises from its cover of eucalyptus leaves. Speaking of hikes, visit Kakadu National Park in the northern part of Australia’s Northern Territory with its canyons, swamps, and lagoons, and tour Nambung National Park in Western Australia which contains the Pinnacles Desert – a unique area with the surreal site of thousands of tall limestone formations -as well as beautiful beaches and flowering plants. And don’t leave out a stop in Tasmania, the island off the coast of the continent with unspoiled landscapes and outstanding treks.

You can also experience Australia’s spectacular beauty on a ride on the winding scenic train of Kuranda through the world’s oldest rainforest, and by driving on the Great Ocean Road, one of the most picturesque roads in the world winding along the southeast coast of Australia. A visit to the Outback, the unpopulated, red heart of Australia is an unforgettable experience, especially seeing Uluru, the giant red monolith and the most sacred place of the Aborigines. Visit the country’s wild life parks and watch the koalas, jumping kangaroos, and other animals which are endemic to Australia.

Spend a few days in Sydney, Australia’s largest city, which is the cradle of European settlement on the continent and among the world’s most beautiful cities. The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-see – in fact, for the full experience, we recommend that you visit at sunset and sit in one of the many local bars, beer in hand, watching the incredible views. The Bay Bridge- another Sydney icon- is stunning, and a visit to Darling Harbor, surrounded by lively, fun-loving Australians is a unique, enjoyable way to spend an evening. Be sure to wander around Sydney's Chinatown and taste the delicious local food.

Visit Melbourne, with its charming Victorian buildings, spectacular botanical gardens, widely diverse cuisine, and fascinating multiculturalism. Enjoy a rich ethnic meal after a stop at the huge Victoria Market. Spend the late afternoon on the incredible Phillip Island watching the penguins marching from the sea back to their lairs.

And, last but not least, a visit to Australia wouldn’t be complete without touring a local winery and sipping the finest wines.

Here are some fun facts about Australia… The entire continent is located south of the equator and south of most of the countries of the world – hence its nickname “Down Under.” Australia was the home of the native Aborigines for at least 50,000 years before being settled as a penal colony by the British. It later became a welcoming home for many immigrants, initially Europeans and then migrants from around the world.

Yet, even today, there are no more than 26 million inhabitants living on this vast continent, most of them in its coastal regions, while its center is largely void of people. Australia's name comes from the ancient Latin term, "Terra Australis Incognita," which means "the unknown southern land,” and implies its very late discovery. Captain Cook arrived here in 1770, declaring it as a British colony – though, in truth, he was preceded by Dutch and British sailors. In 1901, Australia transitioned from a British colony to an independent country, though it does maintain a symbolic connection with the British Crown.

And now? Time to start planning your trip to this fascinating continent.