New Zealand is home to more than just beautiful landscapes and hobbits. A melting pot of different cultures, its blend of European, Pacific Islander, and indigenous Māori heritage give the island its unique charm. To get a real sense of the colonial, geographic, and indigenous forces that have shaped this city, be sure to check out the Auckland Museum, located in the heart of the city. Nature lovers might find themselves more drawn to the volcanoes, beaches, and caves nearby.

A colorful subtropical city, Brisbane is the perfect gateway to both the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. The capital of Queensland, it’s a cultural hub full of hip bars, charming art galleries, and museums. To truly take in the city, climb the nearby Kangaroo Point cliffs, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Brisbane city skyline. If you’re staying a bit longer, there are plenty of nearby islands, forests, and vineyards just waiting to be explored.

Airlie Beach acts as the main hub for trips to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Airlie Beach is known as a popular nightlife spot with a host of clubs and bars. Port of Airlie boasts a boating marina along with a range of accomodation offerings and trendy eateries, which guests to enjoy al fresco dining. Every Saturday there are a number of markets offering fresh produce as well as local crafts, providing a great opportunity to experience the culture like a true local. An excursion to the nearby Conway National Park is highly recommended.

Overnight

The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a paradise for outdoor explorers. With picturesque islands dotting its waters, magnificent rainforests just a short distance inland, and miles of sweeping beaches in between, you’ll truly experience the best that Australia has to offer. From hidden coral cays to secret forest swimming spots, Cairns is also one of the best places in Australia to get your feet wet – so don’t forget your bathing suit!

The gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is a paradise for outdoor explorers. With picturesque islands dotting its waters, magnificent rainforests just a short distance inland, and miles of sweeping beaches in between, you’ll truly experience the best that Australia has to offer. From hidden coral cays to secret forest swimming spots, Cairns is also one of the best places in Australia to get your feet wet – so don’t forget your bathing suit!

Cooktown is the northernmost city in Australia. It is known as the first city in Australia with European settlement. During the rainy season in the region, the roads are not passable. Among the attractions of the place are the James Cook Memorial Museum and the Botanical Garden with the beaches of the Finch Bay and Cherry Tree Bay. The Black Mountain National Park Lakefield National Park and is also in the area.

Located in Australia’s only truly tropical region, Darwin is a melting pot of cultures and creatures. Its proximity to southeast Asia mean it’s full of Asian culture and cuisine, and you won’t want to miss the bustling markets serving up authentic international cuisine. The adventurous Aussie spirit is alive and well too, and you can channel your inner Crocodile Dundee as you explore the rivers and wetlands by boat in hopes of catching a glimpse of Darwin’s famous saltwater crocodiles. And the area has a fascinating history, from aboriginal cultures to colonization to World War II.