Australia, Sydney, Melbourne, Great Barrier Reef

Me and George the Koala in Adelaide, Australia

Australia has fascinated me ever since I learned about all the unique animals that reside there when I was in grade school. This year I dove into learning more about Australia by going there and experiencing the beauty first hand! Before going on my trip I became a certified Aussie Specialist through the Australian Travel Counsel. Australia has become my new favorite destination for so many reasons and I want everyone to experience it! Australia is so beautiful and so diverse. Australia is composed of several territories, each offering unique attractions and experiences. You would need to go to Australia many times to see all the highlights.  Give me a call to find out all the different ways to explore Australia, from adventures on the Great Barrier Reef or the Outback to exploring it's cities or Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.Australia has become my favorite destination for so many reasons. It is so beautiful and so diverse. Australia is composed of several territories, each offering unique attractions and experiences. You would need to go to Australia many times to see all the highlights. Here are the territories in Australia with a brief overview of what to see and do in each:

Australia is a huge country with so many things to do and ways to explore her diverse people, culture, food, topography and animal life. 

Here are the territories in Australia with a brief overview of what to see and do in each:New South Wales is home to Sydney, known for the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Bondi Beach is another highlight, offering a popular spot for surfing and sunbathing.Victoria's capital, Melbourne, is famous for its cultural activities. The city boasts vibrant street art, diverse dining options, and notable museums. It's a hub for arts and history enthusiasts. My favorite place in Melbourne was the Southbank area of town next to the Yarra River. Be sure to check out Australian football or “footie” it’s very entertaining to watch!

Queensland is famed for the Great Barrier Reef, a world-renowned site for snorkeling and diving. This state also features the Daintree Rainforest and the Gold Coast, known for their natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The Northern Territory offers unique outback experiences, with ULURU Rock being a significant attraction. This natural landmark is integral to Aboriginal culture and is best viewed at sunrise or sunset.

Western Australia is vast, featuring attractions like the Pinnacles Desert and Ningaloo Reef, where visitors can swim with whale sharks. Perth, the state capital, provides a mix of urban and natural experiences.

South Australia is recognized for its wine regions, especially the Barossa Valley. Adelaide, the capital, offers festivals and events, alongside the nearby Kangaroo Island, which is rich in wildlife. Adelaide is the place I had the amazing opportunity to hold a cuddly Koala named George!

Tasmania, an island state, is celebrated for its rugged wilderness and national parks. Cradle Mountain and the Freycinet Peninsula are popular for hiking and outdoor activities.

The Australian Capital Territory houses Canberra, the nation's capital. Known for its political significance, it also hosts cultural institutions like the National Gallery of Australia and the Australian War Memorial.

Each territory presents distinct landscapes and activities, making Australia a diverse destination with something to offer every traveler. I can help you plan the best itinerary that fits your interests and activity level.

Here are a few options if you are looking to travel to Australia: If your international flight takes you to Sydney I recommend spending a day or two in Sydney and climb the Harbor Bridge, catch a show at the Sydney Opera House, do a Whale Watching boat tour around the harbor, and visit Bondi beach... then:

1. You could head up north to Cairns and Port Douglas to do some snorkeling and/or scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef on full or half-day boat tours, you could also visit the Kuranda Rainforest on the Kuranda Scenic Railway. You could do some white water rafting or river floating on tubes. There are a ton of adventurous activities to do there including hikes to waterfalls, crocodile farms, cave exploring etc.

2. You could go south to Melbourne, Tasmania and maybe Phillips Island if you want to see the blue penguins. Melbourne was my favorite city we visited. I loved the open markets, shopping and restaurants along the Southbank area next to the Yarra River. Tasmania has a ton of outdoor activities including boat tours, cave exploring and wildlife.

3. You could go to the Northern Territory and visit Uluru and have more of an "Outback" experience. One idea would be doing a 3-day camping trip where you can visit all the famous sites in that area, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. 

There are so many places to experience in Australia beyond these but this is a great place to start. Reach out to me if you are ready to check this bucket list travel location off your list!