For most travellers, Australia is a bucket list destination that requires months of planning and itinerary making.
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Even residents will have to prepare for their travels, since the country is so large! A crucial part of the planning process will most likely include prioritising regions that are a must-visit and skipping parts that aren’t as high of a priority. Below, we’ve put together a handy list of five getaways to Australia you simply must try for yourself.
1. The must visit beach town
Mainland Australia is more than large enough to occupy months and months of travel. Visitors can take their pick from vast landscapes, thousands of areas of natural beauty and even urban cities. Each region and city has its own character, offering contrasting glimpses into life in these unique sections of the continent. With careful planning, you can ensure that you experience a wide variety of each of these types of places.
One region that offers an unmissable look into true Australian life is Broome, Western Australia. This quaint little beach town located in the Kimberly region features 22km of coastline that runs along the Indian Ocean. The town has a rich Aboriginal history which is noted by monuments, museums and several must-visit areas of preservation.
2. New South Wales
The state of New South Wales is large enough to occupy an entire trip and should always be included on the itinerary for any first time visitors to Australia. It is home to several world-class structures, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, and it also offers a glimpse at modern city life in Australia.
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3. Travel to at least one island
With all the mainland has to offer, it is easy to forget about the Australian islands. Australia actually has over 8,000! Not all are inhabited, but almost every one can be likened to paradise on earth. If you’re going to choose just one island to visit, consider Rottnest Island. Rottnest Island is located south of Perth and is home to the endemic quokka.
4. Drive along Ocean Road
Ocean Road, Victoria is a must-see stretch of coastline in south-west Victoria. It spans 400km and is best explored over the course of a few days. The drive starts just 90 minutes outside of Melbourne city centre and spans from Torquay to Nelson. The trip offers sights of beauty that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world, including The 12 Apostles, a formation of limestone cliffs and wildlife native to Australia.
5. Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk
Ngadiku Dreamtime Walk is an experience that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. It is a walk through Mossman Gorge guided and created by Indigenous people. During the walk, you’ll experience a traditional smoking ceremony, hear stories and legends passed down through Indigenous generations and get access to Kuku Yalanji (a land occupied by Indigenous people).
It can be difficult to decide which destinations are must visits when planning a trip to Australia. We recommend including a mixture of modern cities, beach towns and of course, natural beauty.
Have you been to Australia?
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