Australia
Sun-Kissed Cities, Coastal Vibes & Epic Adventures Down Under
Your Guide to Australia
Imagine watching the sunset over Sydney Harbour with the iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge silhouetted against the sky, exploring Melbourne's hidden laneways buzzing with cafes and street art, snorkelling the kaleidoscopic Great Barrier Reef, or relaxing on a golden beach near Brisbane or Perth. Australia offers all this and much, much more. While famous for its vast Outback and unique wildlife, Australia's cities are dynamic, diverse gateways to the country's incredible lifestyle – think world-class dining, thriving arts scenes, beautiful beaches often right on the doorstep, a passion for sports, and a welcoming, outdoor-focused culture.
For first-time visitors, a trip often involves experiencing the iconic rivalry and distinct charms of Sydney and Melbourne, possibly combined with a trip north to Cairns as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. But Australia's sheer scale means endless possibilities for returners: explore the subtropical lifestyle of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the wineries and stunning coastline near Adelaide, the isolated beauty and beaches of Perth in Western Australia, the unique political and cultural landscape of Canberra, or the rugged wilderness accessed via Hobart in Tasmania. Each major city offers a different slice of Australian life.
Getting There
Flights: This is the only practical way. There are no non-stop flights from the UK currently, meaning at least one stop is required, typically via hubs in the Middle East (Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi) or Southeast Asia (Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok). Qantas offers a direct (non-stop) flight from London Heathrow to Perth, which is the quickest route if heading to Western Australia.
- Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD)
- Melbourne Tullamarine Airport (MEL)
- Brisbane Airport (BNE)
- Perth Airport (PER)
- Darwin Airport (DAR)
- Cairns Airport (CNS)
Transport options in Australia
To explore the breathtaking beauty of Australia, many tourists opt for camper vans, allowing for freedom to roam at their own pace. Alternatively, train journeys like the scenic Indian Pacific offer a comfortable and stunning way to traverse the vast landscapes. For those seeking an adventure without the hassle of planning, organised tours provide a fantastic opportunity to see iconic sights while meeting fellow travellers. Whether you're chasing coastlines or outback wonders, Australia's diverse transport options cater to every explorer's desire for unforgettable experiences.
Official Spoken Languages
The official language is English. Communication is very easy for UK visitors. Australian English has its own unique accent, vocabulary, and colourful slang, but standard English is universally understood. Australia is home to a rich tapestry of Aboriginal cultures, each with its own distinct languages, such as Yolŋu Matha and Noongar. These languages are vital for preserving traditions, stories, and connections to the land.*
Weather & Climate
Due to the vast scale of the country, determining the 'best' time to visit Australia can be quite complex and depends heavily on the specific cities and regions you plan to explore. For those traveling to major southern cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and Adelaide, both Spring (from September to November) and Autumn (March to May) often provide the best compromise. During these seasons, travelers can enjoy pleasant weather that enhances the overall experience while allowing for a variety of outdoor activities and vibrant festivals. In contrast, if your itinerary includes the tropical north, especially the Great Barrier Reef, it is advisable to plan your visit during the Dry Season, which runs from May to October, when conditions are typically more favorable for enjoying the stunning natural beauty and marine life of the area.
Must-Visit Cities & Experiences in Australia
Sydney's Sparkling Harbour Life
Experience Australia's most famous city. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Sydney Opera House (take a tour!) and the mighty Sydney Harbour Bridge (consider the BridgeClimb for amazing views!). Take a ferry across the sparkling harbour to Manly for beach vibes. Relax or surf at iconic Bondi Beach. Explore the historic cobblestone streets and pubs of The Rocks district. Sydney is all about its stunning harbour setting and outdoor lifestyle.
Melbourne's Culture & Coffee Capital
Dive into Australia's capital of cool. Get lost in the city's famous laneways, discovering hidden cafes, independent boutiques, and vibrant street art. Explore the bustling Queen Victoria Market for fresh produce, food stalls, and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the city's passion for sports (catch an AFL game at the MCG if visiting during footy season Apr-Sep) or arts (visit the National Gallery of Victoria - NGV). Enjoy Melbourne's renowned coffee culture and diverse culinary scene in neighbourhoods like Fitzroy or St Kilda.
Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
While not a city experience itself, accessing the world's largest coral reef system is a must-do Australian adventure, best reached via the tropical city of Cairns (or nearby Port Douglas). Fly into Cairns and take a boat trip (day trip or multi-day liveaboard) out to the Outer Reef or nearby islands (like Green Island or Fitzroy Island). Snorkel or dive amongst incredible coral formations and dazzling marine life (turtles, colourful fish, maybe small sharks!). An unforgettable natural wonder. (Best visited during the dry season May-Oct).
Brisbane & Gold Coast Fun
Explore Queensland's sunny capital and its famous neighbour. In Brisbane, relax at the lush South Bank Parklands (with its man-made beach), enjoy views from the Story Bridge Adventure Climb, take a CityCat ferry along the Brisbane River, and explore the city's growing dining and cultural scene. Then, consider a trip south (approx. 1 hour) to the Gold Coast, famous for its long sandy beaches like Surfers Paradise, theme parks (Movie World, Sea World etc.), surfing culture, and lush hinterland national parks. Offers a blend of city relaxation and coastal excitement.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Before you even book flights, sort your visa! UK citizens need an electronic visa to visit Australia for tourism (stays up to 3 months per visit). The easiest and usually free option is the eVisitor (subclass 651), applied for online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website using an ImmiAccount. Alternatively, you can use the AustralianETA app to apply for an ETA (subclass 601), which involves a small service fee (approx AUD$20). Apply well in advance (though processing is often quick). You cannot board your flight without one!
Visa First! (eVisitor or ETA is Essential)
Australia is VAST. Don't underestimate the distances between major cities. Sydney to Melbourne is like London to Edinburgh; Sydney to Perth is like London to Moscow! Unless you have weeks or months, flying domestically is the only practical way to see multiple major cities on a typical holiday. Plan your itinerary regionally to minimise long travel days.
Think Big! (Internal Flights are Your Friend)
The Australian sun is incredibly strong, much stronger than in the UK, even on cloudy days. Follow the Aussie mantra: Slip on a shirt (sun-protective clothing ideally), Slop on high-SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended, apply generously and reapply often), Slap on a wide-brimmed hat. Also wear sunglasses and seek shade, especially during the middle of the day (10 am - 3 pm). Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Sunburn happens quickly here!
Sun Smart Secrets (Slip, Slop, Slap!)
Good news – driving is on the LEFT! Roads are generally good. Tipping culture is much less prevalent than in the USA. In restaurants, tipping isn't generally expected as staff are paid a fair minimum wage, but leaving around 10% for excellent service is appreciated (but not obligatory). Rounding up taxi fares is fine. Don't worry too much about Aussie slang; locals will understand you, and while you'll hear terms like "G'day" or "no worries," using them yourself might sound unnatural unless it comes easily! Just be friendly and polite.
Aussie Ways (Driving Left, Tipping & Slang)
Australia: Sun-Kissed Cities & Epic Adventures
Australia is an incredible country offering a stunning mix of vibrant, cosmopolitan cities, unique natural wonders accessible from urban hubs, beautiful coastlines, and a famously relaxed outdoor lifestyle. From Sydney's iconic harbour and Melbourne's cultural laneways to the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the sunny vibes of Brisbane or Perth, Australia's cities are diverse, exciting, and welcoming gateways to exploration Down Under.
The long journey from the UK, Europe and the North America is undeniably a commitment, but the rewards are immense. Plan carefully to account for the scale and required visa, embrace the laid-back culture, stay sun safe, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning sights, unique experiences, and friendly Aussie welcomes. G'day and enjoy your trip!
