Australia has the distinction of being both a country and a continent.  It is the smallest of the seven continents, but the sixth largest country in the world.  Travelers to Australia will encounter modern, cosmopolitan cities like Sydney and Melbourne, contrasted with the oldest culture in the world – the aboriginal culture, dating back over 50,000 years.  

The breathtaking beauty and diversity of Australia’s landscape is captured in its 2,000 National Parks and 10,000 beaches.  From the stark beauty of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park’s iconic monoliths to the vast expanse of the Great Barrier Reef, Australia is certainly a nature lover’s paradise on Earth.

Nature lovers will also be treated to plenty of wildlife encounters with many animals indifgenous to Australia.  We’re all familiar with kangaroos, dingoes, platypus, and koalas, but how about a cassowary?  This frightening bird is a fast runner and has deadly claws.  Or the echidna – looks like a porcupine, but has the characteristics of both reptiles and mammals.  The list of weird and wonderful creatures goes on and on!

Travelers to Australia have no worries when it comes to dining experiences.  The country has a long history of wine production, and it’s no surprise that seafood is prominent on menus from street vendors to gourmet restaurants. Feeling adventurous?  Try dishes (or cocktails) flavored with high protein green ants or have a guangdong milkshake.

Australians as a rule are energetic and fun-loving – passionate about their country and its history, and dedicated to preserving their unique environment.  You will be greeted warmly.

Hiking – There are “walkabouts” or “bushwalks” for everyone in Australia, no matter what your level of experience or expertise.

• Kings Canyon Rim Walk – a 6 kilometer trek that begins with a steep climb to the rim of the canyon. The hike takes you among interesting rock formations and a lush oasis with a roaring waterfall.  It’s best to start early in the morning to avoid extreme heat and for a better chance at seeing wildlife.  A shorter, easier option is the 2.6 kilometer hike along Kings Canyon Creek.
• Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk – a 6 kilometer beachside walk suitable for hikers of all ages and abilities.
• Uluru Base Walk – an easy 10 K walk around the base of this sacred rock, through a variety of landscapes from acacia forests to waterholes to barren desert.
• For those looking for a more extended hiking experience try the Australian Alps Walking Track which can take ten weeks if you complete the entire hike.The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail is another multi-day hike where you’ll have ample opportunities to spot ocean wildlife as well as land animals.

Sightseeing 

• Sydney Opera House – This Unesco World Heritage Site is an architectural icon and also the site of the Royal Botanic Gardens.  The Sydney Harbor Bridge is another architectural wonder, and if you’re not afraid of heights, you can climb it!
• The Great Barrier Reef – so vast it can be identified when viewed from space.  Snorkelers and divers flock to this location for its astounding variety of marine life.  But you don’t have to be a diver to appreciate it – underwater viewing points and glass bottom boats make the reef accessible to everyone.
• Uluru – a visit to this sacred rock can be enhanced by taking a tour led by Aboriginal guides for a deeper appreciation of the Aboriginal culture and history.
• Blue Mountains National Park – for fabulous views from the Katoomba Scenic Railway cars as you make a steep descent through rainforest and sandstone rock formations.
• Melbourne – for a rich and varied cultural experience including museums, gardens, and the elegant Queen Victoria Market.
• Great Ocean Road – a 300 K stretch along Australia’s southeast coast is a mecca for surfers, photographers and whale watchers.

Surfing – Home to world renowned Bell’s Beach, Australia offers many amazing locations for all levels of surf skill. Many of the locations can be a bit overcrowded, but truly dedicated surfers can seek out one of the many hidden areas along the coastline unknown to other travelers!

Snorkeling – The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland is one of the most magnificent natural sights in the world. See it for yourself first-hand!

FACTS

• The currency is the Australian dollar – currently worth about 75% of the American dollar.
• The official language of Australia is English, although there are also 8 different Aboriginal languages spoken.
• Fourteen World Heritage Sites are found in Australia.

FUN FACTS

• There are more kangaroos in Australia than there are people (and three times more sheep!)
• The Australian Alps get more snow than the Swiss Alps.
• Women’s right to vote was granted in 1902 – the second country in the world to enact this law.
• The longest fence in the world (almost 3,500 miles long) is located in Australia.  It was erected to protect farmland from dingoes.
• Australia’s sixty wine regions produce over a trillion bottles of wine each year.
• 90% of Australia’s native species (plants and animals alike) can be found nowhere else in the world.

• Keep in mind that the seasons are reversed in Australia – peak summer months are from  December to February.  You WILL need sunblock, and it’s wise to check on the fire situation before heading out for a hike.  If you’re a skier, travel from June to August for the ultimate snowboarding or skiing experience.
• English is spoken everywhere, but the Australian accent might throw you at first.
• If you’re lucky enough to have extended time in Australia, take advantage of the many modern transportation options offered to get from place to place.  Train travel is recommended as it’s comfortable, efficient, and is a great way to see the varied landscapes of this huge country. If you’re short on time, planes can get you almost anywhere you want to go, although flights can be costly.
• Very few Australians smoke cigarettes and they are very expensive.  MIght be a good time to quit!
• Tipping is unnecessary as service charges are added to every bill.
• Be respectful of the indigenous people and take advantage of the opportunity to learn from aboriginal guides and attend native cultural events.  
• If you’ve made some Australian friends (likely, as they are very hospitable and sociable) and they invite you to a “barbie” (BBQ), better show up with some party beverages to stay in their good graces!