Vacation Reviews

Australia

Big and bold, Australia may be a long way away, but it still tops the wish list of many travelers.

It is easy to be tempted by 132,000km of coastline and beautiful beaches, but Australia’s true heart is its Red Centre. Hire a car or van and discover how big this place really is – it’s the best and most comfortable way of experiencing an Aussie driving holiday. Touring to the centre you’ll find Uluru (Ayers Rock) – a natural wonder with a spiritual presence that can’t be overrated – quirky Outback towns like Alice Springs, sublime ranges, waterholes, wildlife and Aboriginal culture. Driving north the desert climate gradually becomes tropical until you reach one of the world’s great wetlands – Kakadu National Park.

Make sure you carry plenty of water with you and rest every couple of hours as distances in the Outback can be deceiving.

Creepy Crawlies

Australia has a terrible reputation for scary creatures, but the truth is you’re unlikely to get anything worse than a mosquito bite. There are lots of species of poisonous snakes and a few spiders, but they usually keep their distance. Wear sturdy boots and stick to tracks when walking. Saltwater crocodiles inhabit some waters in the Top End so most estuarine waters and rivers are unsafe for swimming – always ask the locals if unsure. Avoid swimming in the sea in the tropics from September to May because of box jellyfish.