
Continent: Australia
Capital City: Canberra
Currency: Australian Dollar
Year I Visited: 2018
At a time when stress levels were incredibly high for me, Australia soothed me in a way I don’t think any other place could have done. Sydney and Brisbane are youthful, vibrant cities whilst never feeling too crowded. And, of course, you don’t need me to tell you that Australia’s beaches, wildlife and natural beauty are second to none.
My Australia Highlights
Here’s where I got to in Australia. Click the destination name for related blog posts.

A city which needs very little introduction, Sydney’s iconic landmarks and easygoing nature made it one of my favourite ever cities. Unusually for Australia, it’s also pretty easy to escape into nature via public transport from here too.

Funkier and more youthful than Sydney, Brisbane is a great base for a backpacker. Whilst I preferred Sydney’s laid-back charm (because I’m an old codger at heart), Brisbane was ideally located for fantastic day trips. There was some great food to be found here too.

A stone’s throw from Brisbane, this idyllic island is the perfect escape, especially in winter when the huge sweeping beaches a largely deserted and you get the rugged coastal walks to yourself. There’s an abundance of nature here too, with the chance to see whales, koalas, kangaroos and bats. A real highlight.