Australia, at once the world's largest island and smallest continent, is an excellent vacation destination. Most of the country enjoys a subtropical climate and the people are friendly and welcoming, not to mention that the official language is English. There are three good reasons why you should plan to spend your next vacation in Australia: beach and water activities, outdoors and wildlife activities and human and cultural activities. Australia does all of these things best. So no matter what you would like to do on your next vacation, you should do it in Australia!
In Australia, one cannot escape waterit's everywhere! The most renowned aquatic destination in the world is the Great Barrier Reef, off the northeastern coast of Australia. The coast of Queensland is sophisticatedly developed to cater to the needs of tourists with such varied interests as scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, swimming, surfing, fishing or just relaxing. It is certainly one of the top vacation destinations in the world, but Australia's aquatic adventures don't end there. The area around Sydney is great for sailing, fishing and swimming and even some diving. The beaches around the Indian Ocean, near Darwin, are popular for fishing as well as swimming and of course relaxing. The southern coast line is best known for its surfing and its surfers, as the swells and waves are excellent, yet challenging. Moving inland, rafting, kayaking and freshwater fishing are also quite popular, especially in the north of Queensland and in the territories of Victoria and New South Wales. So, when dreaming of the perfect vacation spot to practice water sports, don't forget Australia.
For those in search of the great outdoors, Australia has offers endless choices. Hiking is an extremely popular sport and is practiced throughout the entire country. One of the most interesting places is the Outback near Alice Springs. There are picturesque monolithic rock formations and arid landscapes. It is also possible to go horseback riding and stay on an authentic outback ranch, where visitors may see kangaroos and other native wildlife. Another great place for safaris is up north in the Kimberly ranges, where visitors can enjoy hiking around the mountain ranges and canoeing with a chance to see the fearsome crocodiles. In south, there are superb biking and walking trails around the Blue Mountains and the Snowy Mountains. One of the best and most breathtaking hiking tours is along the Great Ocean Walk that spans from near Perth all the way to Adelaide. Whether you prefer biking, hiking or horseback riding, Australia is sure to provide you the most rewarding leisurely experience.
Finally, for those urbanites who enjoy good dining, museums, concerts and other cultural attractions, Australia is not to be left behind. At each major city, especially along the southeast and eastern coast, there are plenty of options for entertainment. Melbourne is sure to please, with year-round festivals, not to mention the vast amount of galleries, museums, and sports centers. Adelaide is famous for its city parks and squares as well as its history. The city has hip caf's and excellent dining. Certainly Sydney, the postcard-city of Australia, cannot be overlooked. Sydney offers a wide variety of dining and sightseeing around its beautiful bay and dazzling opera house that sets the city apart from any other. On any trip to Australia, visitors will pass through the urban centers of the country and it is undoubtedly worthwhile to take some time to get to know them.
As you can see, Australia has something to offer everyone, regardless of taste or preferential pastime. The options of tours, activities to partake in and places to go are endless, making Australia not just another destination, but THE destination for an amazing vacation. |
