Australia is packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences, from the iconic Sydney Opera House to the wild beauty of the Outback and the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities like Melbourne and Brisbane or diving into natural wonders like Uluru and the Daintree Rainforest, this country has something for every traveler.
In my opinion, the top sights include snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in the Blue Mountains, and experiencing Aboriginal culture in the Northern Territory. Keep reading for everything you need to know before visiting!
As a tourist, your main airports in Australia will be Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), and Brisbane (BNE). These cities have direct flights from major international hubs like Los Angeles, Singapore, and Dubai.
If you’re heading to the Great Barrier Reef, consider flying into Cairns (CNS). For the Outback, Alice Springs (ASP) or Darwin (DRW) are your best options. You can compare flights to Australia on Skyscanner or Kayak.
Australia is generally a very safe destination, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
Wildlife hazards Some areas have venomous snakes, spiders, and jellyfish (especially in Northern Queensland). Always check local warnings.
Sun protection The UV index is extremely high; wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Ocean safety Only swim at patrolled beaches (look for lifeguard flags) due to strong currents and occasional sharks.
Remote travel If driving in the Outback, carry extra water, fuel, and a satellite phone help can be hours away.
Australia’s climate varies dramatically depending on where you go:
The best time to visit is during spring (Sep-Nov) or autumn (Mar-May) when temperatures are pleasant nationwide.
Australia is not a budget destination, but smart planning helps:
Australia is an incredible mix of city life and wild adventure just to pack your sense of exploration (and maybe some extra sunscreen)!
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This small but stunning country is packed with lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and pristine beaches making it one of the best places in the world for eco-tourism. The most famous spots include Manuel Antonio National Park (where jungle meets ocean), the Arenal Volcano (with its hot springs), and the Monteverde Cloud Forest (home to rare wildlife).
Congo is a land of untamed wilderness and raw beauty, offering some of the most bucket-list-worthy experiences in Africa. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is home to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and rare wildlife, while the Republic of the Congo (Congo-Brazzaville) boasts pristine national parks and the mighty Congo River. Top sights include Virunga National Park (the world’s most biodiverse protected area), Nyiragongo Volcano’s lava lake, and Odzala-Kokoua National Park for lowland gorilla trekking.
Comoros is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean, offering untouched beaches, volcanic landscapes, and a rich blend of African, Arab, and French cultures. This archipelago may be small, but it’s packed with ‘bucket list’ experiences from hiking the active Mount Karthala volcano to exploring the fragrant ylang-ylang plantations. The capital, Moroni, is a maze of narrow streets and bustling markets, while the islands of Mohéli and Anjouan provide secluded beaches and incredible marine life.
Colombia is a diverse and vibrant destination, packed with bucket list experiences from the colorful streets of Cartagena (tourism hotspot) to the lush coffee regions and the towering Andes mountains. In my opinion, the top sights include the historic walled city of Cartagena, the buzzing capital Bogotá, and the stunning Cocora Valley with its giant wax palms.
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