Oceania's Islands Await
The name Oceania refers to the far reaches of the southwestern Pacific Ocean including Australia, New Zealand, and the islands of the South Pacific. This vast region offers everything from lush, tropical climes to some of the most arid terrain on the planet, from booming cities to virtual ghost towns, from snowcapped mountains to ocean beaches. So whether you’re an adventurer or an escapist, you can pick your pleasure:
Australia—From Outback to Opera House
Contrary to its perception, Australia is huge—nearly as big as the U.S. So, when planning a trip to this immense country-continent, you’ll want to take that into consideration and not spread yourself too thin. Depending on your interests, you can go as deep into the bush or as 5-star as you wish. For cosmopolitan city culture visit Sydney, the gateway to the world, with its famous Opera House, Harbour Bridge and nearby attractions like Bondi Beach and the Blue Mountains. Want to experience the Outback? Otherwise known as the “Red Center,” this area stretches across the continent and amazes visitors with sites like the 1100-foot Ayers Rock or Uluru monolith, the spiritual center of the Aboriginal people, and the quintessential Outback towns of Alice Springs and Cooper Pedy. Adventurers of the sea head for the 1,200-mile-long Great Barrier Reef for some of the world’s best SCUBA diving and snorkeling. And for wine connoisseurs and animal lovers, Adelaide is a great base camp for sipping fine syrah and visiting Kangaroo Island.
New Zealand—Two Islands, Twice the Adventure
New Zealand is packed with adventure. Discover the North Island’s dramatic volcanic landscape, fantastic sailing, the tropical Bay of Islands, the country’s larger cities and the strong influence of its indigenous Maori culture. For a slower pace of life and endless outdoor recreation, head to the South Island where you can go skiing or mountaineering in the Southern Alps or exploring in the island’s picturesque fjords via kayak …all while keeping your eyes out for the “Lord of the Rings” (as this is the gorgeous backdrop where it was filmed).
South Pacific—Paradise Found
Ponder Fiji and French Polynesia (Tahiti and Bora Bora) and visions of white sand beaches, crystalline blue waters, luxury and romance come to mind. The South Pacific truly is the place that daydreams are made of. Rent a beachside bungalow, SCUBA or snorkel in warm tropical waters, or kayak in and around the thousands of little islands as you find your own private paradise.