A Visit Down Under: Exploring Australia

Would you like to wrestle with crocs or watch kangaroos roam around town? You can experience them all down under. The sixth largest country in the world, Australia houses several incredible attractions and places you must visit when you go there.

Where to Go

In 2007, Australia was visited by 5.6 million tourists from all over the world.

Here are some places you have to include in your itinerary. First is the spectacular Uluru. Considered the world’s second biggest monolith, it is located in central Australia. Next is another world icon: the Great Artesian Basin. It is the world’s deepest and largest fresh water basin.

Beach lovers definitely shouldn’t miss Sydney as it has over 70 beaches, including the famous Bondi Beach. Sydney also has other distinct landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Both are located in Sydney Harbor where you can try activities like fishing, rowing, boating, racing yachts, and dragon boat racing.

After Sydney, comes Melbourne. This southeast city also has an amazing cultural life. Have a taste of its vibrant nightlife at its jazz venues on Bennetts Lane, nightclubs and bars, as well as joints in The Metro on Bourke Street. There are also theatrical and musical activities at the Sydney Festival every January.

Melbourne also has shopping districts, especially the famous budget and outlets stores in Bridge Road, Richmond.

If you still have room in your budget, you should also try to visit the city of Perth. You can take breathtaking pictures of the city’s golden sands and pristine beaches along the coastal suburbs. Nature lovers can spend the whole day enjoying these pleasures.

When it comes to food tripping, make sure to devour Australia’s famous grilled chops, Sunday roasts, and more. Have some chicken, ham, along with hot roast turkey. Try two of the country’s traditional dishes: the sausage roll and meat pie.

What to Do

You can swim, stroll, walk or simply enjoy nature. At the beaches, you can enjoy the golden sand, rolling waves, and bars and shops along the shores. Famous for this is Bondi Beach. However, when it comes to surfing, you should go to Maroubra (Learn how to surf). You can also catch the ferry, walk across the beach and dine at restaurants.

Shopping is endless and limitless in Sydney. One of the known shopping places is the Victoria building in Central Business District or CBD. It has plenty of shops with great designs, as well as a large clock on top of the building.

Melbourne is one of Australia’s cities known for unique cuisine and delectable food. You can enjoy different tastes at different sides of the town. If you are after an urban style, go to Brunswick Street. If you want Italian food, Lygon Street is the place for you. For Vietnamese food lovers, you can try Victoria Street.

Let your tongue have its feast!

What to remember

English is the main language spoken in Australia; however, when you get there, the language may sound like a derivation from English. Don’t let this be a cause of miscommunication.

It’s time to learn some Aussie slang before you set foot on the land.

“Bottle shop” means liquor shop.

“Come good” means turn out okay.

“Give it away” means give up.

“Lift” means elevator.

“Pictures” means movie and cinema.

Let the adventure begin! For more detailed information on Australia, read The Guide to Australia.