Australia, the world’s largest island, combines adventure with sublime natural beauty. Here, culture, wildlife, and natural wonders come together in one extraordinary destination. From Sydney’s stunning beaches to the barren, yet beautiful Outback, Australia offers visitors a sensory delight. A land of strange and unique animals, culinary perfection, and artistic diversity, Australia is a destination that will live in your heart forever.
Aside from the iconic Sydney Opera House and Habor Bridge, beautiful Sydney is a beach lovers’ dream. Like the world-famous Bondi Beach, the stunning beaches present scenic vistas perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and coastal walks. Trendy cafes and restaurants offer fine dining delights and markets, world-class museums, and a thriving arts scene offer all the entertainment you could hope for.
Renowned for its vibrant arts scene, lively and diverse Melbourne boasts celebrated street art, galleries, theaters, and museums catering to all tastes. The mix of Victorian and modern architecture has catapulted Melbourne to the center contemporary design. The city is also a culinary paradise with an eclectic mix of gastronomic delights from hidden laneway cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants.
A spectacular 243-kilometer coastal drive, the Great Ocean Road along the southern coast is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and natural landmarks. Nature lovers can explore the lush rainforests and abundant wildlife in the Great Otway National Park. Charming seaside towns line the route offering travelers local delights.
A land of boundless surprises, Australia boasts the world’s oldest living culture and some of Earth’s most ancient landscapes. The land down under provides travelers with an exciting variety of adventures. From the tropical rainforests and reefs of the north to the red-tinged grandeur of Uluru and the snow-capped peaks of Tasmania, Australia’s landscapes are as diverse as they are captivating. The country’s 16,000 miles of coastline beckon road-trippers and surfers, while its dynamic cities provide cosmopolitan flair.
Australia’s wilderness is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. In places like Kangaroo Island, often called a “zoo without fences,” you can encounter kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and even penguins in their natural habitats. With over 500 national parks, visitors can explore everything from towering limestone cliffs to lush rainforests and vast deserts. The unique flora and fauna, ensure truly unforgettable encounters with Australian wildlife, a magical connection with nature.
For wine lovers, Australia’s heritage vineyards, some of the oldest in the world, provide the perfect gourmet escape to sip and savor in beautiful rural settings. No visit to Australia would be complete without witnessing the natural wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, boasting 400 coral types and 10% of the world’s fish species.
In Australia, adventure meets beauty. Culture, wildlife, and natural wonders come together in one extraordinary destination, and you can join a group of fellow adventurers, all women, in an exclusive curated trip to this land of wonder and sophisticated culture. Join Girls’ Guide to the World tour for an unforgettable adventure Down Under.
Experience ancient Aboriginal culture through art galleries and cultural centers across Australia. The art includes dot paintings and carvings, often telling the Dreamtime stories of creation.
Explore sacred sites, such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Northern Territory or Kata Tjuta, while learning about Indigenous customs, history, and spiritual connections to the land.
Australia is known for its wine regions, with Barossa Valley (South Australia) and Margaret River (Western Australia) offering world-class wineries and vineyard tours.
Packing for a trip to Australia depends on the season and the places you plan to visit. Pack breathable, lightweight clothing for warm days, especially if you visit in summer (December to February). The evenings can get cool, even in summer, especially in the south so bring a light jacket or jersey for the cooler days and nights.
Pack sweaters and jackets in winter, particularly for destinations like Sydney, Melbourne, and Tasmania. Australia is famous for its beaches, so bring a swimsuit, a hat and sunscreen.
You’ll also need comfortable walking shoes and sandals. Pack formalwear for theater or fine dining restaurant visits.
Australia is a vast country, and you will be confined by time and your main destinations. If you’re off to Sydney, you can’t miss the harbor and Opera House. Spend the day on one of Sydney’s many beautiful beaches and arrange a day trip to the Great Barrier Reef. In Melbourne, make sure to spend a day in the Barbarossa Valley, savoring wine and wandering the many vineyards. The Gold Coast around Brisbane is known for its beautiful beaches and surf culture.
All travelers to Australia need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). Most North Americans can enter on an ETA.
Australia’s official currency is the Australian Dollar. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, but it is always useful to have some cash. You can exchange your currency in Australia using an ATM or currency exchange.
Ensure that your normal vaccinations are up to date. There are no other vaccination requirements for Australia.
