Australia is a land of remarkable contrasts, where diverse regions offer unique landscapes, experiences, and cultures. In Queensland, you'll find tropical rainforests, the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, and laid-back coastal towns bathed in sunshine. Brisbane, the state’s capital, blends urban sophistication with a relaxed, outdoorsy lifestyle. Sydney, set around one of the world’s most iconic harbours, offers a mix of world-class beaches, fine dining, and cultural landmarks. Further south, Melbourne captivates with its creative energy, vibrant laneways, art galleries, and acclaimed culinary scene.
Tasmania delivers pristine wilderness, dramatic coastlines, and a growing reputation for artisanal food and wine, while Western Australia combines beachside charm with remote natural wonders - think Perth, Rottnest Island, and the Margaret River wine region. In the heart of the country, the Outback unveils a powerful sense of place with vast red deserts, ancient rock formations like Uluru, and deep connections to Aboriginal culture. Each region offers something distinct, making Australia a destination defined by its diversity, beauty, and depth of experience.
Daintree Rainforest, Queensland: Step into the world’s oldest tropical rainforest, where lush jungle meets pristine coastline. The Daintree Rainforest is rich in unique wildlife, from tree kangaroos to rare birds, and offers opportunities to learn about local Aboriginal culture while exploring ancient landscapes.
Great Barrier Reef, Queensland: A natural wonder of the world, the Great Barrier Reef is the planet’s largest coral reef system. Snorkel or dive among vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and marine turtles in crystal-clear waters - an unforgettable experience in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Great Ocean Road, Vicotria: One of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, the Great Ocean Road winds past dramatic cliffs, surf beaches, and iconic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. Stop along the way for gourmet food, native wildlife, and sweeping ocean views.
Kangaroo Island, South Australia: A haven for wildlife and rugged beauty, Kangaroo Island is home to kangaroos, koalas, sea lions, and prolific birdlife. With its protected parks, scenic coastlines, and artisanal food producers, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers.
Sydney Opera House & Harbour, New South Wales: Marvel at the Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece of contemporary architecture, set against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Explore nearby harborside neighborhoods, relax on iconic beaches, and enjoy the city’s renowned dining and cultural scenes.
Uluru (Ayers Rock), Northern Territory: Rising from the red desert, Uluru is one of Australia’s most spiritual and iconic landmarks. Its color-shifting surface at sunrise and sunset is mesmerising, and its deep cultural significance to the Anangu people makes it a place of reflection and respect.
Australia is a year-round destination, but the best travel months are typically April to June and September to October, when the weather is generally mild and ideal for outdoor exploration. Summer (December to February) can bring high temperatures, especially in the Outback, while winter (June to August) offers cooler conditions, perfect for southern cities and alpine regions.
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
Language: English
What makes it special: Australia’s diversity is its greatest luxury. Vibrant cities, untamed wilderness, coastal beauty, and ancient culture all exist within a single destination. From the reef-fringed tropics of Queensland to the rugged Outback, and from world-class dining in Melbourne and Sydney to the serenity of Tasmania’s wilds, the country offers something for every style of traveller.
Social customs: Australians are known for their easy-going, welcoming nature. A casual “G’day” is a standard greeting, and you’ll often find locals keen to share their love of the outdoors - through beach barbecues, sporting events, or simply exploring nature.
It is hard to grasp just how vast and beautiful this wild and remote region is! One excursion we were excited to take from Wyndham was a flight over the Bungle Bungles - truly amazing spectacle! It made me want to also explore this region more. Many fellow clients had incorporated a land tour or self drive stay in the region as well as the cruise to see its features on the coast. It is worth making the most of being in that region at the time.
The Kimberley’s has really interesting World War Two history as well as Aboriginal history, culture and rock art dating back thousands of years. It also has exciting wildlife [and an abundance of it!], but its biggest drawcard is the stunning landscapes and features you don’t find anywhere else in the world.
The Montgomery reef, 400 sq. kilometres of reef [ the largest inshore reef in the world] gets exposed twice daily by the extreme drop in tide [ one of the largest in the world] to create a magical phenomenon of sight and sound! Truly unique and exciting experience.
Also there is the Horizontal falls in Talbot Bay – a natural wonder from tidal surges again that is unique.
Kimberley is vibrant colour in the landscapes, sunsets and sunrises, the sights and sounds of the exciting wildlife that is in abundance, the warmth of the sun, the cultural interest to see and hear and so remote it feels untouched at every turn.
I can’t wait to go back and see more.
Michelle S (an excerpt my Ponant cruise review, see Cruise section)
