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Australia

About Australia

The continent of Australia, which is distinguished from Australia's country by the names Sahul, Australinea, or Meganesia in scientific ways, consists of the landmasses that lie on Australia's continental plate. The word "Sahul" comes from the Sahul Shelf, which is part of the Australian continent's continental shelf.

Mainland Australia, Tasmania, and New Guinea, which comprises Papua New Guinea and Western New Guinea, make up the continent (a province of Indonesia). The smallest of the seven conventional continents is Australia. They are located in the Oceania geopolitical area.

Climate of Australia

New Guinea's climate is primarily monsoonal (December to March), southeast monsoonal (May to October), and tropical rainforest, with only minor seasonal temperature variations. Lower altitudes have year-round temperatures of about 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius). However, higher altitudes, such as Mendi, have constant temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius), with excellent lows of 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius), ample rainfall, and high humidity. The New Guinea Highlands are one of the few places above the equator to get snow, which is only found in the mainland's highest areas. Some parts of the island get an unusually high amount of rainfall, measuring about 4,500 millimetres (180 in) a year.

The Australian landmass climate is mainly desert or semi-arid, with temperate climates in the southern coastal corners, such as oceanic and humid subtropical climate on the east coast and Mediterranean climate in the west. The country's northern regions have a tropical atmosphere. Temperatures in Australia have varied from over 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) to just below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite this, minimum temperatures have been lowered. In certain parts of the country, the El Nio-Southern Oscillation is linked to seasonal abnormalities. Australia is one of the most affected continents, with severe droughts and prolonged cycles of rain.

Temperatures in Australia have varied from over 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) to just below 0 degrees Celsius (32 degrees Fahrenheit). Despite this, minimum temperatures have been lowered. In certain parts of the country, the El Nio-Southern Oscillation is linked to seasonal abnormalities. Australia is one of the most affected continents, with severe droughts and prolonged cycles of rain.

Culture of Australia

Since 1788, Anglo-Celtic Western civilization has been the dominant influence on Australian culture, with some Indigenous effects. The millennia of differentiation and adaptation that followed have culminated in a distinct Australian civilization. American mass culture has substantially impacted Australia since the mid-twentieth century, primarily through television and cinema.

Other cultural influences come from Asian neighbours and large-scale immigration from non-English-speaking countries. The Australian Museum in Sydney and the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne are the continent's and Oceania's oldest and largest museums. Sydney hosts the continent's biggest New Year's Eve celebrations. In Papua New Guinea, there are an estimated 7000 distinct ethnic communities, with most of them having their language. Many diverse modes of cultural expression have arisen due to their pride in diversity; each district has developed its artistic expressions of painting, performance art, weapons, costumes, and architecture. The bride price is still practised in Papua New Guinea, making it one of the few civilizations in Oceania. Papua New Guinea is particularly well-known for its carved wooden artwork, such as masks, canoes, and storyboards.

The best-known examples of Aboriginal art in Australia are rock art and bark painting, dating back thousands of years. Aboriginal painting can be dated to at least 30,000 years in Australia. Ancient Aboriginal rock artworks can be found worldwide, most prominently in national parks like the UNESCO-listed Kakadu and Uluru National Parks in the Northern Territory and protected parks in urban areas like Sydney's Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. A variety of rituals and ceremonies in Aboriginal society are based on a belief in the Dreamtime. The importance of respect for the land and oral heritage is stressed.

When to visit Australia

The best time to visit Australia is September to November and March to May. The majority of tourists visit Australia during these months. The weather is ideal for a stroll across Australia during these seasons since it is neither too hot nor too cold. It would be great if you also skipped the busiest summer and Christmas vacation periods, ensuring that you get cheap flights to Australia.

How to reach Australia? (from America)

From Vancouver, Canada
Just Air Canada and Qantas currently provide nonstop flights from Vancouver to Australia.

From Toronto, Canada
Air Canada is the only carrier that flies directly from Toronto to Sydney, Australia, regularly. Qantas, Australia's national airline, runs codeshare services with stops in the United States.

From New York, United States
While there are no direct flights from any of New York's main airports to Australia, each one offers a one-stop service to Australia, with Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) and Brisbane Airport being the most popular destinations (BNE).

From Los Angeles, United States
American Airlines, Delta, Qantas and United Airlines fly nonstop from Los Angeles to Sydney, Australia.

From Miami, United States
There are no direct flights. Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Qantas, and Australian Airlines operate flights between Miami and Sydney.

From Washington DC, United States
No direct flights

From Mexico City, Mexico
There are no straight flights from Mexico City to Australia, but Delta, American Airlines, United, Air Canada, and Qantas provide connecting flights.

How to reach Australia? (from Europe)

From London, United Kingdoms
Australian airline Qantas offer direct flights.

From Paris, France
Book yourself a connecting flight to fly to Australia.

How to reach Australia? (from Asia)

Delhi: Air India and Qantas offer direct flights from Delhi to Australia.

Mumbai: There are no direct flights from Mumbai, India to Australia. You can book yourself a connecting flight.

Bangalore: Australian Airline Qantas offer direct flights.

Getting Around Australia

We know Australia is gigantic in size. But despite its size, it’s easy to get around because of the well build travel system.

By Plane: The easiest method to cover long miles in a short time is by flying. Domestic Australian airlines - including Virgin Australia, Qantas, Rex, and Jetstar – fly to all the state capital cities and many regional cities. Flying to Australia’s iconic destinations will save your time and extra effort.

By Road: Travelling long distances will not be difficult, infact, it will be an unforgettable experience to your eyes and soul. The vast network of well-built roads offers some of the most beautiful road trips in the world. Don’t stress about the long miles, you will find rest stops and service stations at regular intervals.

You can hire a car or vehicle of your choice from major airports and central city locations.

Public Transport: Relax you are on vacation, use public transport to get around the city and save some bucks. Travel to all major tourist attractions without the stress to hunt a parking. Melbourne’s City Circle tram is absolutely free. In Sydney, there are caps to weekly transport rates, so you will never pay more than the maximum weekly fare, regardless of how often you use the transport network. Most buses, metros, trains and trams can accommodate prams and other access requirements, making them a great option for getting around.

By Train: Sweep across the continent in the Ghan and Indian Pacific. Enjoy a spectacular rail journey on your visit to Australia. Experience comfort and a sense of evocative romance.

The Indian Pacific travels between Sydney and Perth, stopping at Broken Hill, Adelaide and Kalgoorlie; the legendary Ghan travels between Adelaide and Darwin, taking in Australia’s Red Centre and the tropical Top End.

By Ferry: The Spirit of Tasmania runs a nightly car and passenger ferry service between Devonport in Tasmania and Melbourne, the state capital of Victoria, with additional trips at peak times. Cape Jervis in South Australia and Kangaroo Island are connected many times every day by SeaLink boats. Cape Jervis is located around 108 kilometres (67 miles) south of Adelaide. The suburbs surrounding Sydney Harbour, the Swan River in Perth, and the Brisbane River are all connected by ferries in our capital cities.

Discover the City on Foot: With well-maintained pathways and picturesque walks that will lead you through parklands, along coastal cliffs, and through urban laneways, Australia's cities and towns are perfect for exploring on foot.

Traveling for Differently abled: In Australia, someone in a wheelchair or other mobility device can board airplanes, trains, buses, and ferries. Australia's airports offer assistance to those who are differently able and may help with luggage, getting around the airport, and getting on and off the plane.

Things to do in Australia

Island Hop on your private yacht
With usually perfect waves, clear waters, breath-taking scenery, and 74 islands to jump between, the Whitsunday Islands deliver some of the world's best sailings (69 of which are uninhabited). It's known as bareboating:
• Renting a yacht
• Loading it up with food and mates
• Setting sail into the sunset

Companies like Cumberland Charter Yachts will provide you with a yacht and a safety briefing before releasing you, with the condition that you answer to their twice-daily radio schedule to say where you are and where you're going.

Ride a luxury train across the continent
This unforgettable train trip, named after the Afghan camel drivers who used to wander Australia's centre, covers 2979 kilometres (1851 miles) of tropics, the Flinders Ranges mountains, scorched desert, Katherine Gorge, and the Red Centre. The Ghan travels from Darwin to Adelaide or vice versa in three days, stopping in Katherine and Alice Springs for interesting whistle-stop tours. A journey on the Indian Pacific, a four-day voyage from Sydney to Perth or vice versa, is also an option.

Visit Pinnacles
The Pinnacles Desert, 250 kilometres (155 miles) north of Perth on Western Australia's Turquoise Coast, is home to hundreds of ancient limestone pillars that resemble extra-terrestrial tombstones. Secluded white beaches, wildflowers, rare fauna, and outstanding fishing line the park's perimeter. Stay in Cervantes, a nearby fishing town, or take a trip up the Indian Ocean Drive to see all the colourful scenery and spectacular wildlife encounters.

Take a foodie trip around Tasmania
Begin with a breakfast of fresh doughnuts and bagels at Hobart's Farm Gate Market, and then feast your way through Tasmania for a few days. There is enough local produce to taste, and the distance between gourmet towns and shops is barely more than an hour. Eat apples at Willie Smith's Apple Shed in the Huon Valley, fresh Tassie oysters at Bangor Wine & Oyster Shed in Port Arthur, Belgian-style chocolates at the House of Anvers near Latrobe, and triple cream brie or chilli camembert from Wicked Cheese in historic Richmond. The Tamar Valley, which runs north from Launceston and is known for its cool-climate wines, is Tasmania's premier wine region. The state's oldest vineyard, Providence, produces pinot noir, Tasmania's signature wine variety.

See the Sydney Harbour New Year's Eve Fireworks
Sydney Harbour, one of the first locations in the world to ring in the new year, puts on a dazzling display. On New Year's Eve, the fireworks from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Opera House, as well as light shows and more fireworks from barges on the harbour, are not to be missed. There are viewpoints that satisfy both budgets. Plant a picnic rug in one of Sydney's many parks, take a ferry or a boat ride to see the city from the sea, book a waterside hotel room, or go to one of the many ticketed activities, such as the parties on Fort Denison and Shark islands, or the family gatherings at Taronga Zoo Sydney and Darling Harbour.

Cruise the Kimberley
A cruise ship is the most accessible places to see the Kimberley, one of the few actual desert areas on earth, and there are several choices. As you enjoy gourmet meals and luxurious sleeping quarters, you'll get up close to rugged coasts, secluded beaches, ochre-coloured gorges, lush waterfalls, and nuanced river systems.

Things to do in Australia

Roller coasters and water slides on the Gold Coast
The Gold Coast's theme parks, which sell massive thrill rides, water slides, and wildlife, are unrivalled in terms of entertainment. Dreamworld can be combined with WhiteWater World, which is right next door, or a mix pass for Sea World, Warner Bros. Movie World, and Wet'n'Wild can be purchased. The "top five" amusement parks are located between The Spit and Coomera, north of Surfers Paradise, where there is plenty of lodging close to the Gold Coast beaches.

At Uluru, eat under the stars
You'll watch the sunset to the sound of a didgeridoo, sit on top of a dune to savour a degustation feast under the stars (while learning more about them), and listen to Dreamtime tales by the campfire in this unforgettable, intimate dining experience overlooking Uluru and the distant domes of Kata Tjuta. Between April and mid-October, Tali Wiru ("beautiful dune") runs four days a week, with hotel transfers from Ayers Rock Resort an hour before sunset. For any given moment, there are no more than 20 visitors, ensuring an enjoyable experience.

In Margaret river, enjoy a gourmet feast by the beach
The annual Western Australia Gourmet Escape (held in November) is one of Australia's most extensive food and wine festivals, highlighting Western Australia's delights with delectable food and wine, pop-up parties, culinary workshops, and celebrity chefs.
The Margaret River valley is the ideal location for the celebrations. Wineries, pubs, and gorgeous beaches are all worth seeing. Hire a car from Perth and travel three hours south to Margaret River, or fly to Busselton, 50 kilometres north of Margaret River.

The Franklin river, white water raft
On Tasmania's wild west side, the Franklin River is pure nature, but it's never more than 150 kilometres (93 miles) from Hobart. World Expeditions and Franklin River Rafting provide rafting trips ranging from eight to eleven days down the beautiful 125-kilometre (78-mile) Franklin River to the Gordon River, including overnight camping along the riverbanks.

A hot air balloon over the capital of Australia
With clear weather, lush landscapes, and a view of Lake Burley Griffin combined with fascinating architecture, landmarks, and sculptures, as well as numerous take-off and landing areas, International balloonists consider Canberra to be one of the safest destinations to fly. Following that, you should toast your success with a champagne breakfast at the Park Hyatt Hotel.

Flyover lake Lyre
Lake Eyre features Australia's lowest natural point, which is the country's biggest lake, extending 9500 kilometres (5900 miles) on rare occasions that it fills. It will host thousands of birds, including pelicans, banded stilts, silver gulls, and others, as well as wildflowers for a month in the spring. Even if the salt lake is not full, the vastness of the park, the whiteness of the salt lake, and the surrounding low red dunes of the desert seen from a scenic flight give you an accurate picture of the outback. Scenic flights are available from South Australia's Marree, Hawker, Ceduna, Rawnsley Park, Wilpena Pound, and William Creek, as well as interstate.

Things to do in Australia

Drink in the laneways of Melbourne
There are plenty of quaint little bars concealed in Melbourne's inner city's many colourful laneways, providing a perfect place to enjoy local cuisine, beverages, and people. At the trendy, award-winning Eau de Vie, don't forget a Smoky Rob Roy cocktail on the leather banquettes. Lily Blacks, Bar Americano, and Shebeen are among the other places to visit. Alternatively, you might open your small bar and begin making friends with the locals

Visit Lord Howe Island
On the World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, just a two-hour flight from Sydney, hike, surf, and hand-feed fish as one of just 400 visitors. It's one of the world's greenest sites, with 75% of the island's original natural flora preserved and undisturbed, maintaining impressive geology, natural scenery, and coral, as well as a unique array of birds, trees, and marine life.

Go Skiing on the slopes
While Australia is best known for its beaches, islands, and outback, it also has the world's third-longest land-based mountain range. From end to end, the Great Dividing Range provides hiking trails and vistas, but the southern end of the range has some great opportunities to shred an Aussie ski slope. Skiing and snowboarding in Australia is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. There are few sites on the planet where downhill ski runs are lined with gum trees. And if you don't ski or snowboard, there are plenty of winter sports to keep you occupied in Australia's snowfields, from dog sledging to snowshoeing.

Explore North Queen Land's tropical landscape
There is a lot to view and do in just a few hours' drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. Depart either from Cairns or the laid-back beach town of Port Douglas for a full-day excursion to dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef. At the Mossman Gorge Centre, take a guided stroll across the lush Daintree Rainforest, the world's oldest living rainforest. Cape Tribulation is the only location on the planet where two World Heritage-listed places come together, and it's also the best place in Australia to see the legendary cassowary. Silky Oaks Lodge offers outdoor activities throughout the day and a luxurious eco-escape at night.

Watch turtles hatch on Queen Land's
Seeing baby turtles emerge and then making their befuddled dash into the sea is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Mon Repos Conservation Park is one of Australia's most typical locations to see sea turtle's nest. Rangers run regular guided tours on the beach between November and March. The islands of Lady Elliot, Lady Musgrave, and Heron are also good places to see turtles spawning and hatching. Witness the dash to the sea as the hatchlings make their way out of their sandy nests and scurry down to the ocean starting in January – it's quite a sight.

Drive the Great Ocean Road
Hire a car in Melbourne and take a trip down the Great Ocean Path. See the famous surf spots of Bells Beach and Torquay, as well as the many kangaroos on the Anglesea Golf Course, Lorne's laid-back vibes, and the 12 Apostles' impressive rock formations. In Otway National Park, hike through waterfalls and dense trees, and watch whales from historic Warrnambool.

In Port Lincoln, Dive with Great White Sharks
It's an experience to warn your peers about being underwater with a great white shark (even though you're in a reinforced aluminium cage). One-day great white shark tours to Neptune Island, 70 kilometres (43 miles) off Port Lincoln and a 50-minute flight from Adelaide, are offered by Calypso Star Charters and Adventure Bay Charters. It is not to have any prior scuba diving experience (air is fed into the cage via a hose). Between March and August, you can swim compulsory in open water with the gentle yet massive whale sharks on Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia if you want anything similarly unforgettable but without the cage.

Places to see in Australia

Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Path, located in Victoria, is regarded as one of the most scenic and well-travelled roads. Twelve Apostles, the magnificent limestone stack formations beside the breathtaking turquoise ocean, are not to be missed. The 243-kilometre drive from Torquay to Allansford is a pleasure in and of itself.
Port Campbell National Park, Otway National Park, beautiful rain forest, hiking trails, and scenic waterfalls are only a few attractions. You could also see some of Australia's famed animals, such as kangaroos and emus if you are lucky.

Kakadu National Park
Australia's largest national park, Kakadu National Park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kakadu, Australia's second-largest national park, is one of the best places in the world to see the wilderness and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
Three hundred bird species, aboriginal rock art, spectacular waterfalls, ponds, gorges, mangrove swamps, and a fantastic diversity of animals, including wallabies, saltwater crocodiles, and dingoes, are only a few of the attractions.

Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park, UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a short drive from Sydney. It's named for the blue haze that rises from the many eucalyptus trees, creating a breathtaking panoramic view! This park is one of Australia's most well-known attractions, and it is a must-see.
Three Sisters – a sandstone rock formation that rises 900 metres above the Jamison Valley, offering breathtaking views of gorges, sculptures, and rare wildlife.

Fraser Island
Fraser Island, located only a short ferry ride from Hervey Bay, is the world's largest sand island and a popular tourist destination in Australia. It provides one of the most exclusive four-wheel-drive experiences in Australia. You can also take a ferry from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach. In particular, because of the warm weather in March, it is one of the best places to visit in Australia.
Dunes, freshwater lakes and creeks, multi-coloured sand beaches, heaps of shipwrecks along the beautiful seacoast, aquatic life from dolphins, whales, and sharks.

Uluru
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of the world's most giant monoliths. It is a popular tourist destination in Australia. This striking red monolith sandstone formation, which means "shadowy spot," is located inside the Kata Tjuta National Park and stands more than 348 metres tall. This is one of the most accessible places in Australia to hitchhike.
A beautiful sunset as the colours of the rocks shift and the scenery surrounding the rocks.

Heide Museum of Modern Art
Heide Museum of Modern Art is a contemporary art gallery, historic art museum, and heritage park all rolled into one. The best excuse to visit this one-of-a-kind museum is its stunning setting, situated on a vast expanse of lush farmland. It is a must-see destination in Australia's tourist industry.
Take a walk through Heide's expansive, serene area and journey into the past, mesmerized by Melbourne's living heritage.

Places to see in Australia

Harbor Bridge
The Sydney Harbor Bridge is one of the well-known tourist destinations in Australia. The bridge, which rises 134 metres above the harbour, is known as "the Coat Hanger." This technical feat just happens to be the world's longest steel arch bridge.
Enjoy the breathtaking cityscape from the bridge, ascend the bridge with a guide, or visit the museum in the southeastern pier to learn more about the bridge's past and construction.

Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House, which is surrounded by the magnificent Royal Botanic Gardens and the stunning Harbor Bridge, is one of Australia's most popular tourist attractions. This man-made marvel is considered an architectural wonder of the century, with numerous venues built to mimic billowing sails or shells and represent a massive sailing ship.
Take a tour of the house, including theatres, studios, a concert hall, show halls, and a cinema, and enjoy a delectable Australian meal at one of the fine restaurants.

Tasmania's Museum of Old and New Art
One of Australia's oldest museums in the Tasmania Museum of Old and New Art. However, it is accessible by road or plane; the most common mode of transportation to this museum is a 30-minute ferry ride from Hobart. It's recognized for some of the Aboriginal tribes' most extraordinary, unusual, and privately held collections.
Enjoy the many works of art on show, as well as the delectable cuisine offered by the multi-cuisine restaurants on the grounds.

Carlton Gardens
The Carlton Buildings and the Royal Exhibition Building are two World Heritage-listed visitor destinations in Australia. They are also one of Australia's oldest tourist attractions, having been founded in the 18th century. This is without a doubt the unique tourist destination in Australia!
Walk around a series of Mortan Bay fig trees planted by local aboriginals, visit the Melbourne Museum, and admire the Victorian-era Hochgurtel Fountain and revolving French Fountain.

Great Barrier Reef
The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest barrier reef structure and one of the world's seven natural wonders. This world heritage-listed site, visible from space and is one of the world's most significant living buildings, is located in the Coral Sea. It covers a vast area with over 3000 coral reefs and hundreds of beautiful islands.
Dive through the crystal blue turquoise waters below to see nature's blissful wonders and vivid sea life. If you want to remain dry, you can see the glorious coral from underwater observation stations and specially built, marvellous glass bottom vessels.

Yarra Valley
Melbourne is one of the only cities in the world where you can travel by hot air balloon, and the Yarra Valley is the perfect spot to do so. Ballooning across the Yarra Valley puts you over one of Victoria's most beautiful wine areas, with stunning views of the green landscapes and vineyards.
Enjoy an hour of hot air ballooning over the Yarra Valley and its vineyards to greet the spectacular morning dawn.

Places to see in Australia

Sea World Marine Park
Sea World is Australia's largest aquatic park, with attractions for both adults and children. It's a fantastic amusement park that will comfortably keep you busy for a day. Polar bears, penguins, and tiny sharks could all be seen.
Take the monorail for a bird's eye view of the park; purchase tickets for any of the enthralling dolphin, sea lion, and water-ski ballet shows. Rides with a sea theme, such as a roller coaster, are available.

Chapel Streets
Melbourne, a shopper's paradise, entices shopaholics and visitors alike with its beautiful shopping venues that exude charm, beauty, and luxury. If you're looking for some luxurious shopping, this is undoubtedly one of Australia's most well-known destinations.
In Chapel Street, you'll find opulent, upmarket luxury boutiques, world-class restaurants, and a variety of acts to keep you amused. On Brigade Lane, keep an eye out for local designers' chic collections.

Pitt Street Mall
Sydney, one of Australia's most popular cities, holds many records for being the most well-known landmark of Australia's tourist attractions, one of which is its reputation for shopping. You are free to shop as much as you want when you are here. The shopping streets add to the fun!
Check out the Pitt Street Mall, which serves as a one-stop-shop with various retail shops conveniently located nearby. The area's retail conglomeration, which includes Centre stage, Imperial Arcade, Sky park, Glasshouse, Mid City Centre, Westfield Sydney Central Plaza, and Strand Arcade, will take more than a day to explore.

Bondi Beach
If Bondi were to be represented in a single sentence, it would be anything along the lines of real heaven on earth. Bondi Beach is one of the most celebrated beaches globally, with waves, sand, and bronzed bodies. Bondi Beach is also home to one of the world's oldest life-saving clubs, and it's a lovely spot for a walk along the beach or even a picnic.
This is also where residents and visitors alike congregate to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. If you need a fast beer, the beach is lined with restaurants, cafes, and stores.

Daintree National Park
It is a Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, and its biodiversity is among the world's oldest. The Eastern Kuku Yalanji Aboriginal people own the land in this national park, located in Far North Queensland. For them, many of its functions are spiritually significant. The Mossman Gorge, where crystal blue waters gush over smooth granite boulders, is one of the park's two major parts.
Then there's Cape Tribulation, which is unquestionably one of the most stunning sights to see in Australia. Here, rain forests meet the ocean, which runs the length of the gorgeous white coast and is one of the few well-known places on the earth where two of the earth's most diverse species coexist. The park is home to over 18,000 plant species and crocodiles, Bennett's tree kangaroos, cassowaries, and the giant blue Ulysses butterfly.

The Rocks
The Rocks, located on a spit of land jutting into Sydney Harbor, is a well-known historical location once home to the Gadigal Aboriginal people. It later became the country's first European settlement site. The name is taken from the rocky coast that runs along the west side of Sydney Cove. The European convicts set up camp in Sydney Cove for the first time. It also has over a hundred heritage sites, many of which are clustered on the narrow streets. To get a better grasp of the place, take a stroll down the cobblestone streets and stop by numerous cafes, souvenir shops, restaurants, and contemporary and aboriginal art galleries.

Places to stay in Australia

El Questro Homestead, The Kimberly
The El Questro Homestead's elegance contrasts sharply with the rugged Kimberley scenery. The homestead, perched on a clifftop overlooking the breathtaking Chamberlain Gorge, provides lodging for just 18 visitors and tours of the almost one million-acre (4050-square-kilometre) private wilderness park led by local experts. Soak in hot pools, walk or cruise across gorges, or take a scenic flight across the Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park, which is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Sal Salis, Ningaloo
Sal Salis' 15 luxury wilderness tents are just stepped away from Ningaloo Reef, a World Heritage Site where you can snorkel with turtles, manta rays, and schools of tropical fish. Swimming with whale sharks and humpback whales is also possible here, making it one of the safest opportunities in the world to do so. Sal Salis tucked away amid the sand dunes adds a bit of safari nature to this remote and breathtaking wilderness. The nearby Cape Range National Park is home to a plethora of Australian species, which can be seen on guided walks.

True North, Kimberley
The 18-cabin expedition cruise ship True North offers an unbeatable way to explore the gorges, waterfalls, and ancient Aboriginal rock art of Australia's Kimberley peninsula, as well as other isolated coastal destinations. For regular adventures, there's a full-time onboard helicopter and six expedition boats, as well as a 20-strong all-Australian specialist team with unparalleled insights into this remote land. This is an activity-based cruise with a capacity of 36 passengers, individualized service, and excellent dining.

Capde Lodge, Margaret River
Cape Lodge is like staying at a sophisticated and private country estate, with all the amenities of a world-class luxury hotel providing the most OK food and wine, in Western Australia's Margaret River wine region, with the ocean and beaches nearby. Cooking lessons and private vineyard tours are available.

Bamurru Plains, Mary River Floodplain
On the Mary River floodplain, abutting to Kakadu National Park, Bamurru Plains is an exclusive 10-bungalow wilderness camp that offers guests a taste of "wild bush luxury." Airboat safaris, crocodile-spotting and bird-watching experiences, fishing journeys, 4WD safaris, helicopter rides, and guided tours to Arnhem Land's rock art galleries are among the recommended activities available to visitors. The bungalows are screened so that visitors can enjoy the bush's sights and sounds while still being able to see nature from their beds. Cocktails at sunset with a view of the floodplain have a visceral sense of location.

Longitude 131, Uluru
Longitude 131° is a cluster of 16 luxurious pavilions overlooking Uluru, and is part of the World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Guests can admire the shifting colours of the scenery as the sun rises and sets from the 16 canopied suites with private views of Uluru. Dine under the stars in the desert and join special led excursions to learn about the genuine outback and the desert people's Aboriginal history.

Places to stay in Australia

Arkaba, Flinders Ranges
Arkaba's 60,000-acre (243-square-kilometre) private nature conservancy, set against the Flinders Ranges' backdrop, is home to a diverse range of birds and wildlife, as well as a fascinating conservation tale. Since the 1850s homestead only has five guest rooms, the basic comfort at Arkaba is enjoying this breathtaking scenery with only a few other people. To see animals in their natural environments in this grand-scale ancient environment, take a picturesque flight over Wilpena Pound, a guided day or night hike, or a safari trip.

The Louisse, Barossa Valley
The Louise has 15 spacious and luxuriously furnished suites, each with a private terrace overlooking the Barossa Valley's surrounding vineyards. The award-winning restaurant Appellation's chef's menu is based on the Barossa's world-class wines. Breakfast with kangaroos in a nearby wildlife area, private winemaker introductions, and creating your wine mix in a winemaker's laboratory.

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef
Lizard Island is the most luxurious Great Barrier Reef destination, situated 240 kilometres (150 miles) north of Cairns on a coral cay, which means you can go snorkelling right off the beach among coral reefs and colourful tropical fish. In reality, there are 24 powdery white sand beaches on the island, and guests may request to be dropped off at any of them for private romantic picnics.

Qualia, Hamilton Island
Qualia is a private standalone pavilion located on the secluded northern tip of Hamilton Island in the Whitsunday Islands. All of the pavilions have plunge pools and natural outdoor showers. Enjoy a signature treatment at the tranquil spa and fine dining at the indoor-outdoor Long Pavilion, which boasts breathtaking views of the island-dotted aquamarine waters. Enjoy water-based activities such as snorkelling and diving the Great Barrier Reef, sailing the Whitsunday Islands, or play golf at the Hamilton Island Golf Club, Australia's only island championship golf course.

Silky Oaks Lodge, Daintree National Park
Silky Oaks Lodge is nestled in 80 acres (32 hectares) of rainforest on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park, with views of the Mossman River. Stay in luxurious treehouses and be serenaded by exotic birds and rainforest sounds. As the water flows below, dine in the open-air restaurant. At the Healing Waters Spa, enjoy an early morning yoga class and treatments. Driven rainforest walks, indigenous tours of the rainforest and surrounding Mossman Gorge, a river snorkelling drift excursion, and helicopter and luxury yacht trips to the Great Barrier Reef are among the custom safari options.

Spicers Peak Lodge, Scenic Rim
Spicers Peak Lodge is Queensland's highest non-alpine mountain lodge, with 8000 acres (32 square kilometres) of privately protected land encircled by the UNESCO-listed Main Range National Park. Stay in a private lodge with an infinity pool or one of the ten suites. Enjoy excellent eating at the famous Spicers Peak restaurant or take in the infinity pool's endless views when bushwalking or mountain biking in the tropical rainforest. There are also guided, professionally loaded four-day hikes or four-day mountain bike trails with a final night at Spicers Peak Lodge for those who want more.

Places to stay in Australia

Mt. Mulligan Lodge, Northern Outback Queensland
Mt. Mulligan Lodge is a natural outback retreat, with 28,000 hectares (69,000 acres) of vast open space and rugged bronze bluffs. An off-the-grid getaway here, located 3.5 hours from Cairns, is as much about the lavish and laid-back accommodation as it is about the adventurous activities. By day, go fishing for barramundi along still rivers, visit a working cattle station, and explore a deserted township, and by night, relax at the sunset bar. Mt. Mulligan Lodge has an all-inclusive package, with daily-changing meals and custom itineraries.

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley, Blue Mountains
The Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley resort is spread out at the foot of soaring cliffs, occupying only 1% of a private 7000-acre (28-square-kilometre) nature reserve sandwiched between two national parks in the Greater Blue Mountains, which are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Each of the lodge's 40 standalone pavilions has its own private swimming pool as well as spacious living and sleeping quarters. Enjoy a four-wheel-drive nature safari, night wildlife spotting, bird-watching, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Indulge in the One&Only Spa and dine in the luxurious and spacious main lodge, which serves the best local food and wine.

Capella Lodge, Lowd Howe Island
Lord Howe Island is a small speck on the Pacific Ocean's horizon. Surrounded by the world's southernmost coral reef and known for its extraordinary geology and unique assortment of birds, trees, and aquatic life, it is a World Heritage-listed crescent-shaped blip in the Pacific Ocean. Capella Lodge features nine modern beach-luxe suites with scenic Lover's Bay views and the island's two defining mountains. The Lodge Restaurant serves a wide variety of new regional seafood and vegetables. Explore rainforest trails and white-sand beaches with Capella's local naturalist, go big game fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and take a guided ascent of Mount Gower (one of the world's best day walks).

Pretty Beach House, Sydney Surrounds
Pretty Beach House is a tranquil coastal bush setting nestled into a bluff high above Pretty Beach on the New South Wales Bouddi Peninsula, just 90 minutes north of Sydney, with just four one-bedroom pavilions. Driven bushwalks, picnics on private beaches, a cruise or fishing outing on the Pretty Beach Cabo Sports Cruiser, spa treatments, and culinary courses are only a few of the activities available. With personalized butler service and an outstanding culinary scheme, luxury is elevated to new heights.

Lake House, Daylesford
Lake House, located 90 minutes from Melbourne, has 33 spacious, art-filled rooms and suites that overlook idyllic Lake Daylesford in Victoria's Spa Country. The flagship restaurant, a forerunner of the contemporary Australian farm-to-table cuisine trend, offers superb food and wine experience. On the Daylesford Macedon Produce Trail, take a cooking lesson, soak in a cedar pool in the tree-top Salus Spa, and tour artist studios and local food and wine producers.

Saffire, Freycinet Peninsula
Saffire overlooks the aquamarine waters of Great Oyster Bay and the mesmerizing pink granite Hazards mountain range on the Freycinet Peninsula, with a striking building reminiscent of a mythical sea creature. Saffire has 20 luxury suites and a day spa, serves some of Tasmania's best food and wine, as well as more than 20 bespoke, included experiences. Take a luxurious luncheon cruise to Wineglass Bay while wearing waders and tasting oysters straight from the sea with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine or reading about the Tasmanian Devil Experience learn about the efforts to save this endangered species from extinction.

Places to eat in Australia

The Kettle Black, Melbourne
Put on your best all-black outfit and fire up your Instagram – Juno filter, 20 saturation, and radial vignette – because this eatery is the epitome of Melbourne marvellous. It's as if you've walked into an interior design magazine. All is blonde oak, there's a lot of natural light, and the waitstaff is so friendly. The chilly scrambled eggs with Mooloolaba crab, seaspray, sourdough, and something called crustacean oil are the menu's standout ingredient. We have no idea how the last element is obtained, but we can assure you that it is terrific.

Bridgewater Bakehouse
Only Australia could host a festival called the Great Vanilla Slice Triumph, and only Australia could adorn a baked dish with the affectionate moniker "snot stone." It's revolting. The Bridgewater Bakehouse on the Loddon River is the present keeper of the gong. It dates back to 1876 (the bakehouse, not the river) and is everything you'd expect from a country bakery, right down to the sepia signage. For four bucks, you will own a piece of heaven worth more than Jeff Bezos.

Elska
The Queensland capital, which has long lost its "Bris-vegas" moniker, vibrates with gastronomic vigour. This restaurant is a perfect example. It's the closest thing you'll find to an Australian edition of Noma, with just 12 seats and a degustation menu. However, at $110 per person, it is a relative bargain. Elska's "hyper-seasonal" menu often changes, with an emphasis on new, local ingredients. On the dish, this means salted gold band snapper with green aioli and desert lime, as well as emu with quandong ketchup and saltbush – since the right side of our coat of arms is just as tasty as the left.

Nu Nu
Nu Nu promises balmy paradise with sand under your bare feet, sea extending to the ocean, and fairy lights strung between palm trees. The restaurant has received a host of honours, but it lacks the pretentiousness that sometimes comes with such recognition. On the contrary, you're encouraged to take off your shoes and make yourself at home. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, allowing you to eat whenever you like with dishes like red roast beef cheek curry with sweet potato, peanuts, and finger lime.

Coffin Bay Oysters
There are two groups of people worldwide: those that like oysters and those who are losing out on a slinky, spicy, and, can we say, attractive cuisine that Australia is known for. Both the creamy Pacific and the gamy angasi varieties are produced on the Eyre Peninsula.
Coffin Bay Oyster Farm Tours takes it a step further by including a table among the collecting beds where you can throw back freshly plucked mollusks as wavelets lap at your waders.

Places to eat in Australia

Little Lagos
Although there are steakhouses so South African that you might think you're in Johannesburg, regional African cuisine is more challenging to come by. Little Lagos, on Enmore Road, is all about adding Australian palates to Nigerian cuisine. Enmore Road is quickly becoming the groovier younger cousin to Newtown's King Street. Consider a long-simmered goat stew with habanero peppers and plantains stir-fried with chicken gizzards (which is much more delicious than it reads). Vegans and vegetarians are well-served.

Corowa Whisky and Chocolate
Rarely does a single destination appeal equally to adults and children. But we've discovered it. This former flour mill is now a distillery that manufactures a single malt that can knock even the most snobbish Scot off his feet. Meanwhile, kids will indulge in their intoxication by making big chocolate freckles. Everyone gets their own mysterious brown things, and a whisky tasting costs $25. You should be figuring out who will be the designated driver.

Tims Surf and Turf
Tims Surf & Turf always serve up those tasty croc spring rolls, so if you're looking for anything a little more refined, drive down Knuckey Street and pause where you see the monochrome murals of marine life on the interior walls. The emphasis is, predictably, on the abundance of fresh seafood that surrounds our northernmost capital, and it's one of those places where you leave asking why your grilled octopus never tastes quite as lovely.

Maidens Lane
Never undervalue the influence of a delicious burger. Especially if you're travelling with children (of any age), unlike other clown-fronted multinationals, $18.50 gets you a double brisket patty, American cheddar, iceberg lettuce, and housemade sauce on a milk bun with a heaping helping of fries.

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