Head down under
Australia is a big country. Really big. It’s the world’s largest island. The sixth largest nation. And it is incredibly diverse.
Because it is so diverse, this wonderful destination has something for everyone to enjoy. The climate ranges from wet tropics to arid outback with just about everything in between. Australia is famous for its wild landscapes, pristine beaches, tropical islands and rugged outback. And for its vibrant, unique cities. The country’s fascinating Aboriginal and later colonial histories underpin a strong, determined, positive nation with a raw enthusiasm for life.
Something for everyone
Whether you are looking for a family holiday, for a chance to backpack and explore without limits or to travel in style, Australia works for everyone. Cities and beaches, mountains and deserts, history and modern living, it offers it all. Probably your biggest challenge lies in knowing what to do first. Because this is a land you could travel back to time after time after time.
Quantas wrote new history in late March 2018 with the first non-stop direct commercial flight from Perth to London. Flying time was reduced by 3 hours, making Australia even easier to travel to.
If the magnificent country isn’t already on your travel bucket list, then it really should be.
Introducing Australia by Lonely Planet
Australia's Territories
Australia splits down into seven territories. Plus The Australian Capital Territory which is home to capital city Canberra. Each is unique, offering a wealth of different experiences, all with an outdoor feel.
Queensland
Here’s you’ll find a wonderful tropical climate. Amazing coastal beaches and lush rain forests. If you are looking for a warm holiday, a trip to a tropical island or a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, then Queensland fits the bill.
New South Wales
This territory has wonderful coastal destinations. And some famous outback towns that are worth a visit. New South Wales is home to the city of Sydney with its excellent night life and shopping.
Victoria
Often regarded as the cultural capital with some of the country’s best food and wine. Melbourne is a vibrant, multi-cultural city. Some of the scenic destinations within Victoria are unique.
South Australia
Famous for its wine growing regions. Here you’ll find a relaxed country lifestyle with a rich and historic heritage. Adelaide, with its diverse cultural mix and colourful cuisine. is often referred to as the Festival City.
Tasmania
South of Victoria, the island of Tasmania offers a welcome alternative to city life. It has a rich heritage and some of the country’s best wilderness areas. Cool and quiet, it is a great destination to escape to.
Western Australia
Stunning scenery. Spectacular, pristine beaches. Rugged outback destinations. Western Australia is well-known both for its wildflowers and the Margaret River wine regions. If you like exploring, this territory is for you.
Northern Territory
Come here for a true outback experience and some wonderful scenery. Not to be missed is the opportunity to explore the “Top End”. Here you will see amazing landscapes including the Katherine Gorge and the Olgas. And of course Uluru (Ayers Rock), one of the country’s most iconic points.
The Australian Capital Territory
This small territory is home to Australia’s capital city of Canberra. Home to Parliament House. And many of this proud nation’s national treasures by way of galleries, museums and cultural attractions. The city’s many markets and restaurants serve up delicious food.
Cities
Most Australians live along the coast and most of these (89%), in cities. There’s plenty going on in Australia’s cities, each of which has its own unique mantra.
Sydney is the city that most people name when asked to pick out an Australian city. In fact many think its this country’s capital city which it’s not (that’s Canberra). Sydney is glamorous, set against a back-drop of world-class beaches. Melbourne has a great food scene and cultural ambience. Brisbane is “a sub-tropical town on the way up” according to Lonely Planet. Adelaide is often known as the Festival City. Perth is prosperous and booming. Capital city Canberra is home to cultural and historic treasures. The tropical frontier town of Darwin and the cool, southern city of Hobart top and tail this vast island. Each is unique.
Food and Drink
Australia is a truly multi-cultural country. As a result, foodie fans will be spoilt for choice. There’s wonderful seafood. Barbecues featuring beef, lamb and chicken. Their beers are legendary. And Australian wines are world-famous, from bold shiraz to crisp light sauvignon blanc. Have you tried Tasmanian whisky? Coffee features pretty prominently as well.
Wild and Open
Superbly beautiful, Australia’s terrain is incredibly varied, ranging from rainforests, rocky outcrops and mountains and stunning, wild coastlines.
In addition, the wildlife here is equally diverse. There are creatures here that you will find nowhere else on earth. Kangaroos, crocodiles, wombats, wallabies, koala bears, dingoes and Tasmanian devils and much more. Coupled with over 700 species of birds, Australia’s flora and fauna make for a great reason, in themselves, to plan a visit.
Hit the road
Probably the best way to get a feel for this vast country is to drive. And with distances being so vast, there’s plenty of road to choose from. Car hire is reasonably affordable and the state of the roads generally good. Traffic is light once you get outside big city conurbations. There are caravan parks in most decent sized towns, with good facilities for camper-vans. Those of a more adventurous bent can hire a 4WD and head off-road (with care) along classic desert tracks from Birdsville to Cape York.
Inspired?
We love Australia. It is a destination that never disappoints. And there’s so much to choose from. Give us a call on 01923 284148 or send an email to [email protected] . We’ll be delighted to help you to plan your own trip and to advise you on getting the very best out of your time there.
Finally, if you are looking to learn a little more about this wonderful country, you could visit Australias Guide and Lonely Planet. Both of these sites are packed with well written and useful information.
