By: Baarika Suresh

Melbourne City – Melbourne, the home of Australian fashion is known for its lively culture and vibrant lifestyle. Melbourne is the capital of Victoria, one of the 7 states/territories of Australia. There is live music and jazz clubs around every corner as well as massive shopping malls. There is a free tram to access anything in the inner city circle so you can go anywhere anytime.

The great ocean road is a 240 kilometer long drive that’s west end starts in Victoria, and is where you can see the world’s best coastal views, such as the 12 Apostles.

Katoomba Cascades, Blue Mountains – The Blue Mountains are part of a mountain range called the Great Dividing Range, which ranges all the way from South Australia to Queensland. There are gorgeous walking tracks, beautiful views of the Australian greenery and many fun activities.

There are many local art galleries like the Lost Bear Gallery and cafes and shops nearby as well as the Scenic Skyway which is a cable car ride which glides suspended in the air. It has a 360 panoramic view of the landscape.

Sydney Harbor Bridge – Sydney is actually not the capital of Australia, yet it is the most famous city in Australia. Sydney is known for its beaches, shopping and entertainment. Go to Allianz Stadium where the women’s football World Cup was held last year to catch an A-League soccer game or head to the Sydney cricket stadium to watch the Big Bash League cricket matches.

Sydney never sleeps and people can be seen walking or playing basketball 24/7. Sydney’s most famous beach is Bondi Beach but there are many hidden gems in Sydney’s neighboring town, Newcastle.

Bogey Hole, Newcastle – The beaches of Newcastle are undoubtedly the best beaches in Australia. Red Head, Merewether, Nobbys and Newcastle beaches are beautiful places to visit. Nobbys Beach also has rich Australian history, as the boardwalk was built by the blood and sweat of English convicts. The boardwalk connects the beach to Nobbys Head and Nobbys Lighthouse, which guides ships to the biggest export/import port in Australia.

Next to Merewether Beach is Merewether Baths, which is an outdoor swimming area enclosed from the ocean, but lets in ocean water. 

Bogey Hole was dug out by convicts as a private pool for Colonel James Morisett. Now, it’s clear water is open to the public, so that they can enjoy the beautiful views.

Central West – Central West, New South Wales is where the pinnacle of Australian life is. It is just across the Blue Mountains shielded away from the city.

Lake Canobolas (which is actually a dam) is located a half hour drive from Orange City Center and is an amazing place to be. There is a cafe nearby, mini beach, and beautiful walking tracks around the lake. It is in close proximity to The Pinnacle, which is a pretty steep trek up to The Lookout, one of the highest points of elevation in Orange. You can visit Borenore Caves, widely known for its stalactites and stalagmites, or pick your own produce at Huntley Berry Farm, a family owned farm.