Australia and Oceania are a cluster of 15 independent countries, with the most well-known being Australia, Fiji Islands, New Zealand, and French Polynesia. Water lovers, Beach liking, divers, and surfers flock to Australia and Oceania. It is a famous tourist destination because of its mesmerizing islands, pristine conditions, and extraordinary marine life.
Australia is a hub for exploring beautiful places, including the famous Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Outback. The awe-struck beauty and fun activities in New Zealand attract many tourists every year. Among all, French Polynesia catches the attention of many Americans, Europeans, and the entire world. All of the places in Oceania are worth exploring and are the perfect destination for everyone, especially couples and family.
Oceania is a region of thousands of islands in the South Pacific and the Central oceans. Australia is the tiniest continent in Oceania as it contains a small area. However, the Pacific Ocean underlies most of the part of Oceania and Australia, a massive body of water larger than islands and continental landmasses of Earth.
The ancestors of the present-day Australian Aboriginals and Melanesians are the first settlers of the Pacific. They first reached Australia and New Guinea roughly around 60,000 years ago. The ancient Melanesians had expanded to northern Solomon Island. When you visit Oceania, you will witness the oldest rock paintings and Oceanic art engraved on the walls of some famous places. You can travel through time when you visit the oldest popular tourist destinations in Oceania.
Before you visit Australia and Oceania, you must know some fascinating facts about it. These are a few facts you should know.
Capital: Canberra, Australian Capital Territory
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
International Airport: Canberra International Airport, Sydney International Airport, Brisbane International Airport, Melbourne International Airport, Perth International Airport, Adelaide International Airport, Cairns International Airport, and many more.
Home to beautiful clean beaches, incredible surf sports, and the Great Barrier Reef, it is one of the most beautiful countries in Oceania. It is heaven for beach lovers as it is an island world and best for adventure enthusiasts. Australia, primarily known as the island of Kangaroos, is the largest island country and the tiniest continent in the world.
An increasingly multicultural wonder, the country is renowned for its perfect mix of cosmopolitan cities and charming and wild outbacks. This place’s mesmerizing and raw beauty will surely leave you in awe. Australia is famous for numerous reasons; here is a list of some best places to visit in Australia.
Capital: Suva
Currency: Fijian Dollar (FJD)
International Airport: Nadi International Airport, Nausori International Airport.
Fiji is the crown jewel of the beautiful archipelago of Oceania. Fiji is one of the best islands in Oceania, with over 500 islets. Fiji radiates warmth and romance with pristine sandy beaches, multicolored coral formations, and towering mountains covered in tranquil tropical forests. Apart from a solid line-up of premium hotels, this country also offers unparallel activities for a romantic gateway.
Capital: Papeete
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)`
International Airport: Faa’a (Tahiti) International Airport.
One of the most heavenly tourist destinations, this exotic conglomerate combines more than 100 islands. People admire these places due to their towering waterfalls and sparkling fresh lagoons adorned with coral reefs.
Capital: Hagatna
Currency: United State Dollar (USD)
International Airport: Antonio B. Won Pat (Guam) International Airport.
In Oceania, Guam is the largest island in Micronesia and a great destination to travel. The place possesses vibrant coral reefs, pristine white beaches, several shopping options, and other entertainment.
Capital: Tarawa
Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)
International Airport: Bonriki (Tarawa) International Airport, Cassidy International Airport.
The Republic of Kiribati, or Kiribati, is an island country. It is famous for astounding seabird wildlife, scuba diving, and fly fishing. The best time to travel here is between May to November.
Capital: Delap-Uliga-Djarrit
Currency: United State Dollar (USD)
International Airport: Marshall Islands (Majuro) International Airport.
The Marshall Islands is an independent island country in the Pacific Ocean. It is known for its boat construction methods and traditional weaving. The best months to visit this island country are from January to April and December.
Do you know Micronesia comprises approximately 2000 islands? Micronesia has four island groups: the Caroline Islands, the Gilbert Islands (Kiribati), the Mariana Islands, and the Marshall Islands. The best months to visit this country are March and December.
In the Federated States of Micronesia, an individual can visit Truk lagoon, Nan Madol, Stone money, Sokehs rock, Kepirohi waterfall, and Ant Atoll. In addition, there are several other popular places to visit and explore the beautiful sites.
Capital: Nouméa
Currency: CFP Franc (XPF)
International Airport: La Tontouta International Airport.
It is a French territory and comprises several islands. New Caledonia is famous for its marine-life-rich lagoon and palm-lined beaches. September to November are the appropriate months to visit this place.
This region’s famous attractions are Amedee lighthouse, Piscine Naturelle, Lifou island, Anse Vata beach, Kanumera bay, and our bay. When visiting New Caledonia, you must try food items like Bologna, coconut crab, and venison.
Capital: Wellington
Currency: New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
International Airport: Auckland International Airport, Christchurch International Airport, Queenstown International Airport, Wellington International Airport.
This island country is in the southwest of the Pacific Ocean. Its two main landmasses are the South Island and the North island, and it has 700 smaller islands.
In New Zealand, people can visit the Hobbiton movie sets, Milford sound, Sky tower, TePuia, Huka falls tracks, and Hamilton gardens. In addition, some popular attractions are Christchurch botanic gardens and Waitangi treaty grounds. Here, one must try food items such as Hāngī, Crayfish, Kina, Kiwi burgers, Jaffas, Paua, Lamb, Bluff oysters, and Craft beer.
This famous country witnesses several tourists every year. A must-do activity in the summer in New Zealand is penguin viewing in the south. Summer is the peak tourism season in the country, which usually means higher rates and packed beaches. For comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists, visit New Zealand during the Fall.
Capital: Port Moresby
Currency: Kina (PGK)
International Airport: Jacksons International Airport.
Papua New Guinea is famous for its coral reefs and beaches. It usually has a hot and humid climate all year round. The two different seasons you can experience here are dry (June – September) and wet (December – March). A great time to visit is from May to October.
The top attractions are:
In addition, you should try some of the popular food items of this region, such as Talautu, Kaima bona gatoi, and Kaukau.
Capital: Apia
Currency: Tālā (WST)
International Airport: Faleolo International Airport.
The Independent State of Samoa is mainly a Polynesian island country. Therefore, you should visit this popular destination between April and October.
Lalomanu beach, Piula cave pool, Afu Aau waterfall, Papaseea sliding rock, and Tafatafa beach are famous tourist attractions. In addition, whenever you visit Samoa, you must try Panikeke, Paifala, Kalo, Koko Alaisa, and Sapasui.
Capital: Pago Pago
Currency: United States Dollar (USD)
International Airport: Pago Pago International Airport.
Samoa, America, covers a few South Pacific islands and atolls. The preferred months to travel in this region are between June and September.
Here, you can explore visiting Ofu beach, Mount Alava, the national park of American Samoa, and a two-dollar beach. Other popular attractions are the lower Sauma ridge hike, Matafao peak, and Fagatele bay trail.
Capital: Honiara
Currency: Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)
International Airport: Honiara International Airport.
The Solomon Islands consist of almost 900 smaller islands and six significant islands. July to September is the right time to visit the Solomon Islands.
Popular places in the Solomon Islands are Marovo lagoon, Tenaru falls, Kennedy Island, Shark point, Vilu war museum, and skull island. Tuna coconut curry, Palusami, Coconut pudding, Poi, and Kibbie pie are some of the must-try food items.
Capital: Nukuʻalofa
Currency: Paʻanga (TOP)
International Airport: Auckland International Airport.
This Polynesian kingdom, or Kingdom of Tonga has 170+ South Pacific islands, several beaches, and coral reefs. The appropriate time of the year to visit Tonga is between May to October.
Here, people prefer to visit Centenary Church, Mt Talau, Friends tourist center, and Ha’atafu Beach. Lu Pulu, ʻOta ʻika, Kapisi Pulu, Feke, Faikakai Topai, and Keki are the best food items in this region.
Capital: Port Vila
Currency: Vatu (VUV)
International Airport: Bauerfield International Airport.
The Republic of Vanuatu is a nation made up of approximately 80 Islands. It is famous for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and fresh seafood. Here, the most popular time to visit is between April to October.
You can visit Mele cascades, blue lagoon, Mount Yasur, Mystery Island, and Champagne beach. Kava, Santo beef, Lap lap, and Tuluk are a few must-try food items.
The best times to travel to Australia and Oceania are spring and autumn. This means you can travel between March to May or September to November. During this time, the weather is quite preferable, and the country sees several tourists. In addition, these months are the peak season, so you can enjoy and explore more than you think.
But if you are searching for a cheaper travel experience, you should prefer to travel between February and April. You may also book your tickets and accommodation a few months before to avoid paying a higher price.
Here are ten popular must-visit places in Australia that you can add to your list.
Surrounded by an amazing Royal Botanical Garden and picturesque Harbor Bridge, the Sydney Opera House is one of the great places to visit. This famous building is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its striking architecture. This particular place also hosts several venues which further reflect the picture of a giant sailing ship. You can enjoy some delicious Australian cuisine in a fine restaurant. Also, you can explore some buildings that house a concert hall, theater studios, and exhibition rooms.
Cable Beach lies in Broome, Western Australia. It is one of the most famous destinations in Australia. The fantastic sunsets and the stunning beach with white sands and blue water of this place will leave you in awe. This place is also trendy among people because of the camel rides on the beach.
The tranquility of this place is just unmatched, where you can find peace. The foundation year of this particular garden is 1816, and it covers around 30 hectares of individually themed yards. The place is full of towering trees, palm groves, ferns, orchids, etc. You can visit the place if you want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
The foundation date of the Australian war memorial is 11 November 1941. This place covers around 35 acres. Renovation happens between 1999-2001. Since its inception, the place has had many visitors every year.
The Australian War Memorial is situated in Canberra and was developed to honor the armed forces and related organizations. You will find three parts that are the reason behind the separation of the memorial. The three parts include the Research Centre, the Memorial’s Gallery, and Commemorative Area.
The location of this protected national park in New South Wales, Australia. It is one of the great places to visit when you are on your day trip. It is well-known for the Three Sisters rock formation and the scenic view it has to offer. You will get the best views during the September and October months.
Founded in 1998, the Daintree National Park mainly has two primary sections: Mossman Gorge and Cape Tribulation. This place has extraordinary biodiversity, which is also a great reason behind its popularity. If you are a nature and wildlife lover, then this place is a gem place for you.
While visiting this adventurous national park, you can enjoy camping, walking, fishing, and boating. So, without any delay, book your guide to explore the Daintree National Park to witness incredible views of wildlife.
The Kings’ Park and Botanic Gardens cover 988 acres, where an individual can witness a blend of natural bushland and grassed parkland on Mount Eliza. This place also offers fantastic panoramic views of the Swan River and Darling Range. This particular place attracts a lot of visitors every year. People flock here to witness over 3000 species of amazing and unique flora.
Mount Wellington is one of the must-visit mountains in Australia. The mountain is located at 1,271 meters above sea level. The hill almost covers with snow yearly, making it a beautiful place to visit. When you visit the mountain, you will witness a mesmerizing view of the city from the top of it. So, this place must be on your bucket list if you are an adventure lover.
Visiting and exploring new places is all about tasting new dishes. Food brings you closer to the culture and traditions of that region. This is a list of finger-licking food items you should try your hands on when you are in Australia.
These are the most common and popular snacks that you can try eating. Meat Pies can be found in any bakery, shop, or supermarket. In Australia, there are different pies stuffed with mushrooms, onions, meat, gravy, and cheese.
As you would have visited several places in Australia to see Kangaroos, the country people eat them. So yes, Kangaroo meat is quite famous in Australian regions, and people like to eat it for lunch or dinner.
Who doesn’t like BBQ? But Aussies love it. You will find barbecue with fresh seafood, sausages, steak, burgers, tomato, and bread here. The barbecue is so famous that special arrangements are made at the beaches. So, if you are visiting Australia, BBQ is a must-try thing.
The dish may not sound Australian, but it’s a popular food item. It is usually found in pubs and is offered with a beer. It is a chicken schnitzel topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Do you know what ANZAC is? It is the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. In Australia, ANZAC day is celebrated as a public holiday to pay tribute to warriors of the war. During the war, ANZAC biscuits were made and sent to the men by their wives. It is made with golden syrup, coconut, and oats. You can try them from any shop but don’t say the name to upset the other person.
Are you looking for travel tips before you travel to the place of island groups? Here are a few things that an individual must consider before traveling.
Spanning the western and eastern Hemispheres, the climate of Oceania varies in different regions. For example, the Pacific islands have tropical Savanna islands and tropical rainforests.
Therefore, the area is very vulnerable to climate change. The seasons in Australia generally run opposite of Europe and North America. For example, summer starts here from December to February. During this period of months, the beaches in Australia become intolerable. On the other hand, you can visit the beaches in autumn, which starts in March. Also, during the fall season, the places of Australia glow more, making it the perfect time to visit tropical islands.
Australia is a developed economy that provides excellent road, rail, and air transport. However, some road systems are much more developed and reliable than others. In Oceania, interstate transportation is highly dependent on railways. However, inside Oceania, you can take the services of cars, taxis, and buses.
Roadways and Railways are well developed in Australia and Oceania; thus, hiring four or two vehicles will help to reach your destination faster while enjoying the natural beauty.
In Australia and Oceania, traveling can be a great experience. The list of countries in Oceania have several popular attractions where it is worth visiting. Especially, Australia is a country that you must visit. In Australia, you can explore different places with different vibes.
The country has something for everyone, so if you plan a solo or group trip, you should prefer Australia as your next destination.