Ciao Bellisimi,

Recently I have been the happy recipient of travel blog posts from talented and intrepid bloggers who specialize in parts of the world that I am unfamiliar with.

As you know from the recent post about travelling to Morocco, there are areas that we might not have experienced and we do not know where to begin.

For this reason I have asked travel blogger Emma Lawson who hails from Australia to help us all out. Australia is so big and frankly, I have very little reality on it as I have never been. Emma very graciously wrote a lovely blog about Australia for newbies which will dip our toes in those far away waters and warm white sands.

A NEWBIE’S GUIDE TO AUSTRALIA

Proud Australians would tell you that it takes a lifetime to see their country. Australia is so vast and diverse that you will want to see it all, especially if you are visiting for the first time. Since your stay is probably very limited, you will have to make some smart choices. Do not worry, though, Australia offers something for everyone and whatever you choose you will not be sorry.

These are our top picks to get you started.

Stunning Australia

Fashion, Wines and History

One dot on the map of Australia that you must not miss is the magnificent Sydney. This cosmopolitan city offers many fun ways to explore it, from world-class shopping tours, top art and culture events, to top-notch restaurants. It also boasts one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world. To get the real feel of the city, embark on a cruise ship and enjoy the scenic views of Sydney’s most iconic landmarks, the Opera House and Harbour Bridge.

After an adventurous weekend in Sydney, head down south to the sporting capital of the world – Melbourne. Although it is not the largest city in the country, it is perhaps even more popular among GastroNomads than Sydney, due to its rich culinary and enology offerings.

Melbourne is the capitol of the southmost state, Victoria. It is becoming increasingly popular among tourists from all over the world because of the preserved Victorian heritage reflected in Victoria Harbour. This harbour dates back to the 1800’s.

When in Melbourne you might consider organizing a shorter trip to Tasmania. You can get there by sea or by plane. A good advice would be to go there by ferry. Having your own car will make you more comfortable with organization and transportation. You should definitely include a bicycle ride to the top of Mt. Wellington. This is a must for every visitor. The view is spectacular.

While in Melbourne, you might also consider organizing a shorter trip to Tasmania. You can get there by sea or by plane. A good advice would be to go there by ferry. Having your own car will make you more comfortable with organization and transportation. You should definitely include a bicycle ride to the top of Mount Wellington, which is a must for every visitor. The view is spectacular.

Surfer’s Paradise

Bondi Beach

Visit the most famous Australian beach, Bondi Beach. If you are a passionate surfer, then this destination will probably top your list as it is with thousands of other surfers from around the globe. The curling waves of Ben Buckler, at the northern end, are not for the inexperienced. But one can still enjoy the beauties of the one-kilometre long stretch of golden sand, take a relaxing walk, or enjoy a meal in one of the numerous seafood restaurants. Swimming is also allowed when the waves are not too high, and you do not have to worry about the sharks, since there is a protective net.

Hiking in the Blue Mountains

Blue Mountains of Australia

Australia’s Blue Mountains are not as high as the Himalayas, nor as long as the Andes. They lack the picture-perfect skiing slopes of the Alps. Still they offer unrivaled views. The best way to explore the magnificent waterfalls, lush eucalyptus forests, mysterious caves, and abundant historical sites is to walk one of the many trails. There are tracks for hiking novices, as well as for those who are looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure and hair-rising experience. If you are lucky enough, you might even come across a koala.

Uluru and the Outback

Uluru or Ayer’s Rock

Behind the vivid urban areas lies the mysterious, unforgiving, forever-stretching ochre desert. But, the Outback is not just sand and dryness. It is the essence of Aboriginal wandering spirit and the setting of many a story from the Dreamtime.

The Dreamtime reflects the Aboriginal view of the world, existence and creation. The Aborigines do not have a word for time in their language so perhaps a better word to use would be the Dreaming since it doesn’t have an end and it is closer to their meaning of reality.

In the middle of this vastness, stands Uluru, a red monolith, which has been dominating the landscape for millions of years. If you are up for a spiritual journey, hire an Aboriginal guide and take a tour around Uluru. Remember that it is a sacred place for the local aboriginal people and that it should not be climbed out of respect for them.

Do you like our selection? What are you waiting for? Pack your luggage and set off on the adventure of your lifetime.

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