Best for travel in Australia
Australia is the oldest and most isolated continent in the world. The country is located south of Indonesia and northwest of New Zealand. Australia has a population of 24 million people spread over 7.69 million km², 90% of whom live in urban areas. This results in a density of only 3 inhabitants/km²!
The largest country in Oceania, populated for more than 50,000 years, Australia is one of the rare countries in the world to have been able to preserve its indigenous inhabitants (the Aborigines), who have lived there since prehistoric times. Discovered by Europeans in the 17th century – Dutch, French then English -, Australia was claimed by Great Britain in 1788 and therefore has a relatively recent official history (which did not prevent it from being bloodied by colonization, slavery, racism and wars of the 20th century …). This country fascinates from many points of view: the vastness of its territory, the hospitality of the locals – who call themselves Aussies in local gentile -, its multiple endemic (sometimes deadly) species, its breathtaking landscapes between the two oceans (Pacific and Indian), the diversity of its climates, its beaches, its nature, its biodiversity and its economic prosperity (it is the 13th economic power in the world, and the second most developed country in the world after Norway according to the United Nations).
THE TOP 10 CITIES YOU HAVE TO DISCOVER
GOOLWA
Goolwa is one of the most beautiful cities in Australia. Located at the mouth of the Murray, the longest river in the country, this picturesque town is a must on the tourist route. Travellers can stroll around the historic harbour, enjoy the sandstone architecture and visit the many art galleries and restaurants here. For the most romantic enjoyment, the views of the coast are magnificent from the top of the sand dunes near the promenade.
KALGOORLIE
Kalgoorlie is a typical rural town in Australia, but it retains its atmosphere of the early 19th century, when the country had a Western lifestyle and relied mainly on the construction of railways, mines and farms. At the time of the gold rush, Kalgoorlie was a prosperous gold town. Even today, tons of gold are being removed from the ground, making it both a historic and contemporary mining town, and travelers here can explore one of the gold mines. Kalgoorlie also has a remarkable sports life and is home to a famous horse racing track.
ALICE SPRINGS
When most people think of remote destinations in Australia, they think of Alice Springs, and for the right reasons. Indeed, Alice Springs attracts the more adventurous type of traveller because it is located close to the famous Uluru; an impressive sandstone rock formation rising out of an endless flat bush. On the border of the McDonnell Ranges, surrounded by beautiful purple gorges, Alice Springs offers some of the most memorable and enjoyable walks in the country. It also offers incredible views of the desert.
BROOME
Located on the Indian Ocean, Broome is a beautiful city where local life and tourist interest revolve around pearls. Because of its proximity to Asia, Asian influences can be felt all around Broome, especially in the city’s architecture, which is somewhat reminiscent of mainland China. In addition to fishing for pearls directly from the sea here, Broome has many beautiful beaches. One of them, Cable Beach, is known as an ideal surf spot and as a place where tourists can take camel rides along the beach at sunset.
BIRDSVILLE
Traditional pubs and annual races have made Birdsville a remarkable town to explore. Surrounded by the Queensland wilderness, Birdsville enjoys both the beauty of the Diamantina River and the severity of the Simpson Desert. September is the best time to visit, as this is where the horse races take place, but the town remains a must at other times. With its historic buildings, impressive sand dunes nearby and flights to picturesque Lake Eyre, Birdsville is the perfect place to explore Australia.
PORT DOUGLAS
Port Douglas is a quaint little fishing village with a number of trendy restaurants and a superb golf course. It is a lively town where residents are always looking for things to celebrate. Port Douglas is also home to a charming beach, which is ideal for picnics, swimming, volleyball and snorkeling. The most famous attraction in this charming town is the port from which travelers can take boats to the beautiful Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving.
PORT FAIRY
Port Fairy is home to Victoria’s oldest harbour. Back in the day, the port has attracted sealers and whalers from Australia and Europe. In the 1800s, it was also a favorite among Irish people fleeing the potato famine. This legacy can still be seen in the town today, which carries a strong Irish influence that adds to the uniqueness of Port Fairy. In addition, 50 old buildings have been protected by the National Trust.
ESPÉRANCE
As soon as you look at one of the many white sandy beaches with crystal clear waters of Esperance, it becomes obvious that many people consider it to be the most beautiful coast in the country. This beautiful green city offers many opportunities for diving, swimming and surfing. Esperance is also home to some salt lakes, and swimming in them is considered therapeutic. Five national parks offer hiking, fishing and 4×4 opportunities nearby. Esperance has many wind turbines, reflecting its commitment to renewable energy.
TILBA CENTER
The center of Tilba is a beautiful historic city with many leather goods, handicrafts, antique shops and old-fashioned blacksmiths. The center of Tilba is also home to a cheese factory, so you can enjoy delicious cheese tasting. As Central Tilba has been well preserved, it is also an ideal place to get the impression of an authentic 19th century city. In addition, this remote and charming town is just minutes away from some of the most pristine beaches in the country.
YAMBA
With almost perfect weather throughout the year and great surfing spots, Yamba is a fishing town located in New South Wales. It is a relaxed, family-friendly place with many activities to enjoy together. From May to October is the best time for whale watching. However, beautiful dolphins come near the coast all year round. The city itself organizes many dance shows, art exhibitions and farmer’s markets.
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