Australia may be on the other side of the world, but it is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination and with a wealth of attractions, both natural and man made, it’s no wonder it’s the number one choice for many tourists.

The People

Australian people are generally very friendly and gregarious. They are also very proud of their country and it’s best features. Some visitors find the locals brash, even rude at first, but spend some time here and you’ll soon grow accustomed to their manner.

The Cities

Australia’s cities of which Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are among the most visited are cosmopolitan and vibrant hot spots which offer fabulous restaurants, chic bars and fantastic shopping. The Sydney Opera House is now world famous and rightly so. It’s a staggering feat of engineering and when seen up close is quite a site to behold. Sydney is a true twenty four hour city and with good weather practically guaranteed, strolling round town at sunset is a true pleasure.

Melbourne is home to fantastic architecture and world class events, such as the Australian Open Tennis Tournament and the Melbourne Gold Cup. The trams which trundle along the streets lend it an old world charm and the city’s theatres and restaurants are also world class.

Natural Attractions – Uluru

However, it’s Australia’s natural features which most people find most interesting. Uluru (formerly Ayers Rock) is still sacred to the native Aborigine peoples and can be climbed in about two hours, however, please be aware that it is a particularly arduous and treacherous climb (although there is a chain to hold onto for part of the way).

Also be aware that the climbing of Uluru is sacred to the Aborigine people and there is a government sign at the foot of the rock asking people politely not to climb. The view from the top, to be honest is less than breath-taking as Uluru is the only feature for miles in a bleak and featureless landscape.

Natural Attractions – The Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef is situated of the Queensland coast and is over 1800 miles long. It is a must for marine life enthusiasts and sustains thousands of tropical fish, birds, sea turtles, reptiles and giant clams. It is also a breeding ground for hump back whales and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Climate

Australia is, of course, in places, an extremely hot country and the outback can be unbearably hot during the day while the temperature drops to almost freezing levels at night. Summer invariably runs from December to March and winter from June to September. The monsoon belt is in the north of the country and flooding is not unknown.