Country guides
Australasia
Australia Travel Guide
Remote yet welcoming, vast yet accessible, Australia is a destination that pairs world-class experiences with an unmistakably relaxed spirit. Cities such as Sydney and Melbourne promise cultural depth and cosmopolitan energy, while the natural landscapes speak for themselves, offering everything from coral reefs and ancient rainforests to desert heartlands and endless coastlines. Adventure here does not come with attitude. It comes with sunscreen, a sense of humour and a genuine invitation to join in.
Much of the country's charm lies in its people, and Australians are known for their openness, straight talk and a warmth that's difficult to manufacture. This authenticity leaves a lasting impression, whether visitors are chatting with a local barista, hiking with an Indigenous guide or sharing stories over a beachside barbecue.
Best time to visit Australia
Australia's mild, temperate climate means there's rarely a bad time to visit. Even in mid-winter (June), temperatures often reach a comfortable 68°F (20°C). That said, summer (December to March) is when the country truly comes alive, with long, sunny days, a packed calendar of events and festivals, and an unmistakably festive energy in the air.
What to see in Australia
-The Sydney Opera House is an iconic triumph of architectural design, and hosts a world-class programme of shows and events.
-The Australian Museum is a fascinating place to visit, with engaging exhibits that cater wonderfully to kids.
-Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and travel into the Outback to see Uluru (formerly known as Ayers Rock), a giant monolithic formation considered sacred by Australia's Aboriginal peoples.
-Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), opened by millionaire private collector David Walsh, is a striking and unconventional museum that continues to turn heads in the art world.
What to do in Australia
-Explore the Great Barrier Reef with snorkel gear in hand and experience it up close. This vibrant underwater world, the largest living structure on Earth, is a sight visitors won't soon forget.
-Swim, learn to surf, or simply relax on Queensland's Gold Coast, home to some of the finest beaches in the world.
-Watch a cricket match at one of the country's legendary stadiums; the Melbourne Cricket Ground comes highly recommended.
-Take an early morning hot-air balloon ride over the Australian Outback and marvel at the vast, severe beauty stretching in every direction, with no sign of human settlement.
Getting to Australia
Relatively affordable flights to Australia, often with one or more stopovers, are available from both the United Kingdom and the United States. The most common international entry points are Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport, though other cities such as Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide also receive international arrivals depending on the airline and route.
Read
Voss by Patrick White, Oscar and Lucinda by Peter Carey, In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson, and Red Dog by Louis de Bernières.
Listen
Kylie Minogue, Tame Impala, AC/DC, Crowded House, INXS and Sia.
Watch
Shine (1996), The Castle (1997), The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994), Australia (2008), and Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002).
Drink
Local beer such as Victoria Bitter, Tooheys and XXXX (said 'four ex').
Eat
Vegemite on toast and barbeque.
What to buy
Great souvenirs to buy in Australia include boomerangs, beer cosys, wine and Aboriginal folk-art.
What to pack
Be sure to pack a swimming costume, plenty of sunscreen, lightweight clothing (if travelling in summer), and at least one pair of good walking shoes, as it's worth exploring the country's wonderful natural landscapes.
What's on in Australia
The Sydney Film Festival, one of the longest-running and most revered film festivals on the planet, takes place each year in June. Australia Day (26th of January) is celebrated with tremendous gusto right across the country.
Did you know?
-Australia is one of the least densely populated countries on earth, with about three people for every square kilometre.
-Australia's first police force was composed of the most well-behaved convicts.
-More than 85 percent of Australians live within 31 miles (50km) of the coast.
A final word
With cosmopolitan cities spread across the vast unforgiving bush and a lively and welcoming population, Australia is a fascinating travel destination for just about anyone.