It’s no surprise that Australia is one of our favorite destinations. Year after year, many Australian destinations are listed among the best destinations in the world. However, as an island continent in the South Pacific, it often gets overlooked by travelers because of the flight distance from many places. Nonetheless, after we give you 10 reasons why you should visit Australia now, we think you’ll be ready to book that trip.
1. It’s summer there while it’s winter everywhere else. While many parts of the world are shivering this time of year and counting down the days to spring, summer is in full swing in Australia. Australia’s weather is one of the biggest draws since you can find comfortable weather year-round. Southern Australia starts cooling down come May, but Northern Australia remains nice most of the year.
2. Uluru. Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is an Australian icon. Located in the Southern part of the Northern Territory, the sandstone formation stands at over 1,000 feet tall. Its long history and cultural significance give it strong ties to Australians. Make sure you have your camera handy for one of the most photographed attractions in Australia.
3. World-renowned wine country. With great wine destinations around the world like Italy, France, Argentina, and Chile, Australia often gets overlooked. However, Australia is developing a name for itself as a premier wine destination. Surprising to many may be that Australia is the fourth-largest exporter of wine in the world. Since Southern Australia is cooler, this is where you’ll find the best wine regions, producing wines that include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and many more.
4. Beautiful beaches. Since Australia is an island, you’ll have no problem finding miles of pristine beaches. The most populated areas of Australia are along the coastline, which gives you easy access to some of Australia’s best beaches. It’s paradise for the water enthusiast. If there’s a water sport you enjoy, you’ll find it in Australia.
5. The outback. The outback is to Australia what the bush is to Africa. The outback is vast and remote, but provides unique sights, sounds, and smells that you just can’t find elsewhere. It’s recommended to have a tour guide and commit at least a long weekend to exploring the outback.
6. Wildlife that can’t be seen elsewhere. Where else are you going to see a kangaroo hopping by? Australia has some of the most unique wildlife in the world, from kangaroos to koalas to wombats to cockatoos and much more. Best of all, you can see all of these animals in their natural habitats.
7. A ride on the Ghan Train. There are so many different ways to experience Australia, and the Ghan Train is no exception. This is the best way to see the Australian outback if you’re not driving. However, you’ll need to plan for a long weekend, as the trip is 48 hours, stretching from Adelaide in the south to Darwin in the north.
8. The Great Barrier Reef. No surprise here since the Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system in the world, covering over 1,600 miles. There are multiple ways to see the Great Barrier Reef depending on your time and interests. Of course, a first-hand experience is a must for divers and snorkelers, but you can also see it via boat, airplane, or helicopter.
9. Unique cuisine. Australian cuisine often gets overlooked. You may be familiar with Australian beer, like Foster’s or Coopers, and maybe even Australian wine, but there’s a lot of Australian cuisine you aren’t likely to have tried. One of Australia’s most iconic foods is Vegemite, which is a spread often put on sandwiches, pastries, and crackers. Other popular foods you may come across in Australia include meat pie, biscuits, and soda bread.
10. Explore the Great Ocean Road. The Great Ocean Road is just that. The 150-mile road in Southeastern Australia in Victoria winds in and around the hills overlooking the ocean. It’s home to many popular landmarks, including the Twelve Apostles.
What do you want to do more than anything else in Australia?
