AUSTRALIA TRAVEL INSURANCE

From sophisticated cities to the outback country, tropical sands to rugged cliffs, big-name islands to hidden gems, Australia offers a smorgasbord of sensational places to go. For many Australians, it’s a matter of juggling the distance and the funds to get there when deciding where to go.
Rather than get Sydneysiders and Melburnians riled up with the old ‘battle of the best state’ debate, we’ve decided to focus and highlight top places to visit outside of the city.

THE RED CENTRE, NT: For a truly weird and wonderful experience, get lost in the ancient heart of Australia.  The huge outback region of Central Australia, NT is known as the Red Centre because...well, the rocks and earth are red.   And the skies are spectacularly blue. Take an extraordinary desert adventure, watch Uluru change colour at sunrise and sunset, and experience the culture of the traditional indigenous owners of this land for a quintessential Aussie getaway.

THE GREAT BARRIER REEF, QLD: Off the coast of Queensland, Australia’s Great Barrier is one of the world’s largest coral reefs blessed with an abundance of marine life and breathtaking beauty.  A visit to the reef can be an unforgettable experience from over or under the water.  Beyond diving and snorkelling, you can travel underwater in a mini-submarine, sail aboard a yacht, witness turtles hatching along the beach, take a scenic flight or skydive over the reef.

DAINTREE RAINFOREST, QLD: Rainforests don’t get much more spectacular than the Daintree.  Experience Mother Nature in all her glory with an outdoors holiday showcasing remote wilderness, golden beaches with calm water, hiking tracks, thousands of species of birds and other wildlife and untouched rainforests. Visitors to the area can camp or stay in eco-friendly accommodation.

THE WHITSUNDAYS, QLD: For a true paradise holiday, let the 74 Island Wonders of the Whitsundays wash over you. Whether it’s a family adventure, an eco-style holiday, activity-based or pure luxury relaxation, with its location in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, there are tours and trips for every type of traveller. Seven of the islands are developed – Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, South Molle Island, Daydream Island, Long Island and Lindeman Island and the remaining are uninhabited national parklands.

GOLD COAST, QLD: Known as the "theme park capital" of Australia’, if you're looking for some thrilling family fun, the Gold Coast has plenty of choices to appeal to all ages. If you're a beach-goer, the Gold Coast has got you covered. Surfers Paradise is the most well known.

BLUE MOUNTAINS, NSW: Be captivated by World Heritage wilderness, the rock formation of the Three Sisters and the blue horizon of eucalyptus trees as you trek through the Blue Mountains.  For a relaxing getaway, enjoy Devonshire tea in Leura or one of the many neighbouring villages.

SYDNEY BRIDGECLIMB, NSW: The burning question often asked: “it costs a lot of money, is it worth it?” To which our answer is, yes!  It’s more of a walk than a climb and you’re locked on with a harness, so health and safety are no concern.  It is undoubtedly overpriced, but once you’re out on the bridge and Sydney’s harbour takes centre-stage, you'll immediately forget the price tag. The wow factor and experience on the other hand will stay with you forever.

MELBOURNE LANEWAYS, VIC: No Melbourne visit is complete without a trip to Melbourne's Laneways.   A vibrant hotspot loved by tourists and locals alike. Enriched in art culture, unique galleries, tiny cafes and hidden bars, there are plenty of one-off treasures to discover around each cobbled corner.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, VIC: Winding alongside the wild and windswept Southern Ocean, the Great Ocean Road is a spectacular coastal drive. In addition to the famous 12 Apostles rock formation, there are plenty of things to see and do along the way.  With an international reputation as one of Australia’s best surf beaches, Bells Beach is an awesome spot whether you prefer to catch waves or watch them.  A little further along you can go Koala spotting at Kenneth River, where large numbers of these cuddly creatures have set-up home in the blue gums that line the main road. If you're feeling energetic, you can ditch the car and opt for guided walking tours with options from 4 days to 8 days.

MARGARET RIVER, WA: Premium wines and spectacular beaches side-by-side, what more could you want from a holiday?  Located 3 hours drive from Perth, Margaret River is renowned as one of the world’s best wine-producing regions. With over 150 wineries to visit, you're sure to find a new favourite drop.  From casual to fine dining, food lovers are spoilt for choice in Margaret River with the region attracting world-class chefs taking inspiration from the abundance of local fresh produce.  You can enjoy a cold beer at one of the local micro-breweries on a sunny day or swill a Shiraz next to a cosy fireplace in winter. Either way, you can't go past Margaret River for a chilled down south experience.  A magnet for surfers, Margaret River is also home to world-class surf breaks that stretch over 130km of immaculate coastline. Sweeten that with art galleries and luxury accommodation, and Margaret River could just be the most heavenly place on earth.

KANGAROO ISLAND, SA: Home to powder-white beaches, a multitude of exotic wildlife and vast stocks of scrumptious local produce, if you’re visiting South Australia, Kangaroo Island is a must stop. It’s not often you get an opportunity to get up close and personal with sea lions and this is your chance. KI is a budding foodie destination and there are some fantastic B&Bs and farm-stay accommodation options.

SYDNEY AND MELBOURNE BATTLEGROUND:  We’re going to sit on the fence with this one.  Both Sydney and Melbourne are fun cool cities, with trendsetting restaurants, gorgeous coastlines, great shopping and beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for art, culture and museums, Melbourne has the edge.  But if you’re looking for iconic architecture (Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House) or to hit the beach, with Bondi and Manly along its shores, Sydney is the crowd-pleaser.