An Introduction to Australia for Travelers

Australia is a very diverse country geographically and a hot spot for tourism. If you are thinking about heading down under, here is some information on Australia. For a easy reading book you can stick in your pocket or purse, I’ve shared a good and cheap book to start pictured at the left. One iconic landmark is the Sydney Opera House, below — a must see for anyone visiting Australia for the first time. 

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Australia is its own continent, the only country in the world that can say as much. It covers roughly 3 million square miles and is about the size of the continental United States. The capital is Canberra, but Sydney is the biggest city with 4.2 million people. The climate of Australia is extremely dry inland with more temperate conditions along the coast. The population centers are primarily along the coast due to soaring temperatures inland. May I remind you? Pack your backpack! Take a look at the 60L Backpack on Sale on Lu Treks Travel Shop, for starts! One of the most important places to visit is the Urulu Sacred Rock, (below), a magnificant natural wonder of the world!

Australia was originally inhabited by Aboriginal tribes. There’s a great book on Amazon that helps provide great details and history of these Aboriginal Tribes (see left) In 1770, Captain Cook claimed the land for Great Britain. In 1788, the first colony was established in New South Wales. Most of the colonists were convicted criminals from Great Britain. Gold was discovered soon thereafter and Australia became a destination for immigrants seeking fortune and a new start in life. One of the most unique birds of Australia is the Rainbow Parrot Lorikeet, below — a beautifully vibrant species!

On the far northern coast, Australia is home to one of the amazing sites in the world. The great barrier reef is a water enthusiasts dream. With incredible plant life, the reef is world renowned as a diverís paradise. A watchful eye is advised given the presence of the Great White Shark in the area. To get an idea of how massive Australia is, see the below map! Australia would take months, if not years, to explore — endless wonder!

Australia is a Commonwealth. The federal powers are mapped somewhat after those in the United States, but no bill of rights exists. Unlike the U.S., the individual territories retain significant authority over their own affairs. Aside from the political structure of Australia, the country boasts it’s own cuddly mascot, the Koala Bear (below). 

People in Australia are called “Australians”. The country has a population of just over 20 million, and the population is growing at a rate of 1.1 percent a year. Australians ethnicity is 92 percent European, 6 percent Asian and 2 percent Aboriginal. No religion dominates, but 27 percent of Australians consider themselves Roman Catholics. Life expectancy for males is 78 years while females live to 83 on average. Literacy rates are a surprisingly low 85 percent! Aside from the demographics, Australians pride themselves in preserving the feisty and adventurous Wallaby’s and Kangaroo’s — yes, there is a difference! 

Australia was often considered the forgotten country. Long distance transportation changed that designation. Now it is one of the hottest tourist destinations year in and year out.