Australia & New Zealand
From iconic landmarks to hidden gems and rich Aboriginal heritage, Australia promises a journey of discovery and wonder at every turn. Or explore New Zealand, the land of the Maori culture and breathtaking landscapes, from majestic fjords and glaciers to lush forests and volcanic wonders.
What to expect:
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Australia and New Zealand, where adventure meets relaxation in stunning natural landscapes. From the rugged Outback and turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia to the majestic fjords of Milford Sound in New Zealand and the vibrant cities of Sydney and Auckland, this region offers a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Immerse yourself in rich indigenous cultures, savor world-class cuisine, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Fast facts:
Australia
- Area: 2,968,402 sq. mi.
- Similar size to: the contiguous U.S.
- Primary language: English, although there's no official language
- Currency: Australian dollar ($A)
- Outlet: 230/240 V Type I plugs, power adapter, and converter needed
- Climate: Variable; Avg. summer 90 °F, winter 59 °F
- Time Zone: Three time zones, Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) UTC +10, Australian Central Standard Time (ACST) UTC +9.5, and Australian Western Standard Time (AWST) UTC +8.
New Zealand
- Area: 102,587 sq. mi.
- Similar size to: Colorado
- Primary Language: English; Maori; New Zealand Sign Language
- Currency: New Zealand dollar (NZ$)
- Outlet: 230/240 V Type I plugs, power adapter, and converter needed
- Climate: predominantly temperate maritime; Avg. 50°F in the south to 61°F in the north.
- Time Zone: Two time zones: New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) UTC +12 and Chatham Standard Time (CHAST) UTC+12:45
Spots to explore:
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Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Known for its iconic landmarks, Sydney is a vibrant city offering a perfect blend of urban sophistication, stunning beaches like Bondi Beach, diverse cultural experiences, and a lively culinary scene.
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Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Melbourne is a cultural hub with a thriving arts scene, world-class dining, and iconic laneways filled with street art and boutique shops.
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Perth, Western Australia
Enjoy a relaxed coastal lifestyle in Perth, which offers pristine beaches, waterfront dining, and vibrant cultural precincts like Fremantle.
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Auckland, New Zealand
Auckland is the gateway to stunning natural attractions, panoramic views, wine tasting, a multicultural dining scene, and vibrant waterfront areas.
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Queenstown, New Zealand
Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown offers exciting outdoor activities such as bungee jumping, skiing, jet boating, and hiking and is an excellent base for exploring Fiordland National Park.
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Wellington, New Zealand
This capital city is famous for its arts and culture scene, including the Te Papa Tongarewa museum, theaters, galleries, and vibrant waterfront precincts. It's also known for its culinary delights, coffee culture, and scenic harbor views.
5 must-do activities
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Great Barrier Reef in Australia - Explore the world's most extensive coral reef system, home to a diverse array of marine life, colorful corals, and crystal-clear waters.
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Iconic landmarks in Sydney, Australia - Stroll across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visit the iconic Sydney Opera House, and relax at Bondi Beach.
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The Australian Outback - Journey into the heart of Australia's rugged interior, discover Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and learn about the region's unique indigenous cultures and ancient traditions.
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Milford Sound in New Zealand - Cruise through these majestic fjords, surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters.
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Fiordland National Park in New Zealand - Renowned for its rugged fjords, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, Fiordland served as a filming location for the iconic "Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" series.
