Australasia Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Australasia with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Australasia

Australasia, also known as Oceania, is home to diverse cultures, breathtaking natural landscapes, and exciting outdoor adventures. This region consists of four subregions: Australia, Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. Each subregion has its unique attractions and experiences, making Australasia a perfect destination for all types of travelers.

In this travel guide, we will provide a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat. We will also share insights into the culture and customs of Australasia, safety and health, transportation options, and nearby destinations.

List of Places to Visit in Australasia

Australasia is a vast region, and there are countless incredible places to visit. Here is our list of top destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Australasia is rich in history and culture, and there are many historical places and museums worth visiting. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
  • National Museum of Australia, Canberra, Australia
  • Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington, New Zealand
  • Pataka Art + Museum, Porirua, New Zealand
  • Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Cairns, Australia
  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory, Australia

Natural Attractions of Australasia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Australasia’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring, and there are many outdoor adventures and scenic views worth exploring. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia
  • Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
  • Abel Tasman National Park, Tasman, New Zealand
  • Blue Mountains National Park, New South Wales, Australia
  • Bora Bora Island, French Polynesia
  • Rangitoto Island, Auckland, New Zealand

Hiking/Biking Routes of Australasia

Australasia is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with many trails and routes to explore. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Milford Track, New Zealand
  • Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
  • Abel Tasman Coastal Track, New Zealand
  • Tongariro Northern Circuit, New Zealand
  • The Otago Rail Trail, New Zealand

Best Things to Do in Australasia: Activities and Tours

There are countless things to do in Australasia, from adventure sports to cultural tours. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Whale watching tour, Hervey Bay, Australia
  • Hobbiton Movie Set tour, Matamata, New Zealand
  • Wildlife tour, Kangaroo Island, Australia
  • Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney, Australia
  • Glowworm Cave tour, Waitomo, New Zealand

Week-Long Itinerary for Australasia

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Australasia, covering some of the top destinations:

Day Destination
1 Sydney, Australia
2 Cairns, Australia
3 Auckland, New Zealand
4 Queenstown, New Zealand
5 Bora Bora Island, French Polynesia
6 Rotorua, New Zealand
7 Melbourne, Australia

Food and Drink Scene of Australasia

Australasia has a diverse food and drink scene, with many unique and delicious dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Meat pie, Australia
  • Pavlova, New Zealand
  • Hangi, New Zealand
  • Peking duck rolls, Australia
  • Grilled fish tacos, Tahiti

Local Beverages

  • Wine, especially from Australia and New Zealand
  • New Zealand beer, such as Steinlager and Speight’s
  • Kava, Fiji

Where to Stay in Australasia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Australasia has many accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney, Australia
  • Hilton Cairns, Cairns, Australia
  • Rydges Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
  • The Rees Hotel, Queenstown, New Zealand
  • InterContinental Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa, Bora Bora, French Polynesia

What to Buy in Australasia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Australasia offers many unique and local products that make for great souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Tim Tams, Australia
  • Manuka honey, New Zealand
  • Kiwi bird plush toy, New Zealand
  • Tahitian black pearls, French Polynesia
  • Handicrafts made by local artisans, Fiji

Local Culture and Customs of Australasia

Australasia is a diverse region with unique cultures and customs. Here are some insights:

  • Respect the indigenous culture and traditions.
  • Wait to be seated in restaurants, and do not assume that it is self-seating.
  • Tipping is not a common practice in Australasia.

Best Time to Visit Australasia

The best time to visit Australasia depends on the specific subregion and destination. Generally speaking, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons: March to May and September to November.

Do’s and Don’ts of Australasia

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local cultures and customs.
  • Learn some basic phrases of the local language.
  • Explore the outdoors and natural beauty of Australasia.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect the indigenous culture and traditions.
  • Litter or harm the environment.
  • Overindulge in alcohol, especially in public places.

Safety and Health

While Australasia is a relatively safe region, there are some risks to be aware of. Here are some insights:

Safety in Australasia

  • Take necessary precautions against sunburn and heatstroke.
  • Be aware of the potential for natural disasters, especially if visiting during the summer months.
  • Be wary of wildlife, especially in Australia.

Health in Australasia

  • Ensure that all necessary vaccinations are up-to-date.
  • Be aware of the potential for mosquito-borne illnesses, especially in tropical areas.
  • Drink bottled water, especially in remote areas without access to clean drinking water.

Getting to Australasia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Australasia can be a long journey, but there are several options available. Here are some insights:

Airports Near Australasia

  • Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Australia
  • Auckland Airport, New Zealand
  • Nadi International Airport, Fiji
  • Papeete Faa’a International Airport, Tahiti

Bus Stations Near Australasia

  • Greyhound Australia, Australia
  • InterCity, New Zealand

Other Options

  • Cruise ships, especially for island-hopping within French Polynesia
  • The Ghan, a luxury train service in Australia

How to Get Around in Australasia

Australasia has many transportation options, including:

  • Bus and coach services
  • Domestic flights
  • Ferries and water taxis
  • Trains

Where to Go Next from Australasia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Australasia is well-connected to nearby destinations, including:

  • Southeast Asia, such as Bali, Indonesia, and Bangkok, Thailand
  • South Pacific islands, such as Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga
  • New Caledonia and Vanuatu

Conclusion

Australasia is a diverse and exciting region that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, learning about local cultures, or indulging in delicious cuisine, Australasia has it all. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your next trip to this stunning part of the world.

Map of Australasia Map of Australasia