While the rest of the world languishes under grey skies, chilly or even bitter temperatures, and snowy, icy weather, the land Down Under is a sun-drenched holiday paradise just waiting to be explored. Australian summers run from December to February, and while some parts of the country are known for getting extraordinarily hot, it’s the height of the travel season in others.
The first stop for many people in this sunny summer paradise is Cairns. Cairns is best known for the Great Barrier Reef, and this is one experience that is totally Australia The world’s largest coral reef is home to a spectacular array of flora and fauna, and you can enjoy it up close by way of snorkeling, scuba diving, or from the inside of a glass-bottomed boat.
Darwin is another must-see for visitors to Australia. This is a city that survives, having rebuilt after being devastated by a series of air raids in World War II and again some 30 years later after the worst cyclone ever to have been recorded in Australia. Darwin’s population is spirited, with plenty of dedicated outdoor spaces, al fresco dining with local cuisine, open air markets, and street corner performance artists.
Not far from Darwin is Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage-listed site known for both its cultural and natural worth. This stunning natural wonderland covers almost 20,000 kilometres of sandstone cliffs, lowland hills, woodlands, floodplains, and coastal areas, all with their own unique habitats and biodiversity.
If there’s one thing Australia is known for, it’s surfing. Before heading back home, stop off at Surfer’s Paradise in Gold Coast, Queensland. Take surfing lessons during the day, or just lay back on your towel and relax in the warm rays of the sun. When the sun goes down, Surfer’s Paradise lights up, with live music, trendy clubs, and nonstop action.
Stop looking out at dreary skies and drearier weather. The good weather and brilliant sun of Australia awaits.
