Destinations

Australia

Australia is both a country and a continent, such is its size. It is surrounded by the Indian, Southern, and Pacific oceans, near Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. Much of Australia is flat and dry. The south-east and south-west have a temperate climate. Most people live on the south-eastern coastline. The north of Australia is tropical. In the north, every day is summer!

Australia's flora and fauna are diverse and often unique. Famous native animals include the platypus, echidna, kangaroo, koala, wombat, emu, and kookaburra.

Australia's sights range from different islands and vibrant reefs in the Great Barrier Reef to spectacular coastlines and powerful waterfalls in the Kimberly region. Its landscape is a testament to its diverse natural beauty.

The climate suits outdoor activities; sports are popular, and Australia also has cultural strengths, for example, in the visual and performing arts. Australia's culture reflects aspects of indigenous Australian culture and British and Irish traditions and, more recently, has been influenced by other cultures now part of its vibrant multicultural mix.

In Sydney, the average maximum temperature is about 16°C (60°F) in the winter (June–August) and 26°C (78°F) in the summer (December–February). The average minimum temperature ranges from 8°C (46°F) to 18.5°C (65°F).