Australia
“Australia; a journey to vast horizons, ancient whispers, and the endless discovery of yourself.”
Our Australian Journey
Of course, it was bound to happen someday. At the end of 2022, it finally did. We traveled to Australia for the first time, flying in from Bali. While visiting Australia had always been part of our long-term plan, the journey truly began when we were offered an incredible opportunity to house-sit in Melbourne just before Christmas.
During that time, we spent two unforgettable months in Melbourne, using it as a base to embark on a camping road trip along the legendary Great Ocean Road. After a brief three-month stint in New Zealand, the pull of the Land Down Under was too strong to resist, and we returned to spend five months traveling from Melbourne all the way up the East Coast to Cairns. We lived in a car with a rooftop tent. Eventually, we ventured deep into the interior and the iconic Outback to embrace the diverse landscapes.
Our second home?
In fact, Australia has since become a recurring chapter in our story. Following another stay in New Zealand, we returned to Melbourne for a second house-sit at the end of 2023, deepening our friendships and our love for the city. By the spring of 2024, we were back on the road again. This time, we spent a month exploring the rugged beauty of Tasmania before crossing the expansive Nullarbor Plain, a 1,200-kilometer journey of breathtaking isolation to reach Western Australia.
Ultimately, who would have thought we would find ourselves back in Australia yet again by the end of 2024? We spent another few months in Melbourne and Torquay and completed a six-week camping trip through Victoria and New South Wales. The country’s awe-inspiring nature and warm people have captivated us in a way we never expected. The pull is undeniable. We left the country in the spring of 2025 with a profound sense of ‘homesickness’, already dreaming of our next return.
English
Australian Dollar
Warm to Hot
UTC +8 to UTC +12
Australia: A Land of Endless Adventure and Diversity
Australia is a vast and extraordinary destination that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list. It is a country of extremes, contrasts, and incredible diversity, and one we have grown to love deeply. Whether you are planning a quick trip or an extended stay, Australia offers a lifetime of experiences that will leave you in awe. In addition, be aware, Australia is massive; it is roughly 185 times the size of the Netherlands. Consequently, there is no such thing as a truly “quick” trip.
Planning Your Trip: Size and Highlights
Therefore, for first-time visitors we suggest dedicating at least three weeks to explore this sprawling continent. If you have more time, even better! Australia’s scale means that a relaxed pace is key to truly appreciating its wonders.
Some of our must-see highlights include:
- Iconic Landmarks: The Great Barrier Reef, the mystical landscapes of Uluru, and the dramatic Great Ocean Road.
- Diverse Nature: From the lush Daintree Rainforest to the wild, untouched beauty of Tasmania.
- Vibrant Cities: Explore the eclectic laneways of Melbourne, the icons of Sydney, the pristine beaches of Perth, or the hidden gem capital Canberra.
Adventure or Relaxation?
Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or looking for a slow-travel experience, Australia has it all. For instance, you can:
- Chase Adventure: Dive with sharks in Port Lincoln, hike through ancient forests, or camp under a sky full of stars in the Red Centre.
- Unwind like a Local: Sample world-class wines in the Barossa Valley, stroll through urban art scenes, or enjoy a lazy afternoon on the sands of Bondi Beach or Whitehaven Beach.
Practical Advice for the Land Down Under
Australia is, despite the vast distances, surprisingly easy to navigate, just make sure you’ve got your sunscreen and a sense of humor.
- Culture: English is spoken with a famous Aussie twist, and the coffee culture (especially in the cities) is world-class.
- Currency: The Australian Dollar (AUD) is used everywhere, and card payments are the norm.
- Climate: It is a land of opposites. Summer down south is winter up north, so it is essential to plan your itinerary according to the seasons.
Ready to explore the Land Down Under?
Check out our detailed blogs below for expert travel tips, top destinations, and practical advice. Whether you are chasing kangaroos or simply soaking up the Aussie vibes, you will find everything you need to make your adventure unforgettable.
Our Australia Blogs
Photo Gallery Great Ocean Road
Our inspiring Great Ocean Road Photo Gallery
Best travel tips for Australia
The best travel tips for your perfect journey around Australia
2 Days in Canberra
Discover our 2 day itinerary for Canberra
My 3 visits to the Australian Open
Your ultimate travel guide to visit the Australian Open.