Australia & New Zeland

Surrounded by oceans, Australia and New Zealand are destinations of a different kind. The natural beauty of Australia is breathtaking. The landscape features world-class cities, snowfields, deserts, rainforests and golden beaches. The beautiful cities are scattered along the coast. Australians are known for their distinct lifestyle and warm culture. This country is also identified for great food and sporting activities. It is her seismic beauty that catapults nearby New Zealand to a great position in the world tourism map. Her rivers, lakes, glacial mountains, dense forests and elongated beaches makes her landscape highly attractive. A country of fun and adventure lovers, activities like bungee jumping, hiking , skiing and rafting are a routine among people in New Zealand. Sea food and wine are among New Zealand's favourites which tourists should not miss.

Location
Australia is a continent between the Indian Ocean and South Pacific Ocean. It is the smallest continent in the world but listed as the sixth-largest country. Most part of Australia is desert or semi-arid. As much as 40% of land mass is covered by sand dunes. The population is concentrated in the eastern and south eastern coasts.

New Zealand is located in the Oceania region to the south east of Australia in the South Paciific ocean. To the north west of New Zealand is the Tasman Sea.

Climate
The south-east and south-western regions of Australia have a temperate climate. Northern Australia has a tropical climate. Rainfall in Australia is irregular. Some parts of the country are frequently affected by droughts and dust storms.

The climate of New Zealand is temperate with sharp regional contrasts. New Zealand comprises two long thin islands that run north-south and, as such, there is a noticeable difference in the climates of the top of the North Island, which is sub-tropical, and the bottom of the South Island, which is temparate. Overall, New Zealand's climate makes it a suitable holiday destination all year round.

Main Places to Visit
Australia
There are a myriad of attractions in Australia. Among the cities, Sydney is very popular. Sydney, the city that hosted Olympic Games in the year 2000 is the oldest city of Australia. The Opera House, Darling Harbour and Royal Botanical Gardens are the most visited places of this old city. Melbourne is regarded as the economic powerhouse of Australia. Among Melbourne's attraction are Queen Victoria Market, Acquarium and National Gallery. Perth is known for Kings Park, Swan River and its beautiful zoo. The city also celebrates festivals in a big way. Brisbane is an enigmatic city having many attractions. The most popular are Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Mt. Coot-tha.

Mention may also be made of Great Barrier Reef that runs along the entire coast of Queensland. One of world's natural wonders, it is the most extensive reef system on earth.

Major Cities in Australia
Cairns , Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra , Gold Coast, Brisbane, Hamilton Island, Tasmania,

New Zealand
The cities of New Zealand are equally beautiful. The landscape of Christchurch may be described as a great collection of scenic mountains, lovely ocean beaches, vivacious rivers, tranquil lakes and wide-open spaces. Queenstown is a majestic city nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and overlooked by Remarkables Ranges.

It is indeed surprising that in a small part of the world (Australia and New Zealand), such great geographical diversity could be seen.

Major Cities in New Zealand
Auckland, Hamilton, Napier, Wellington, Christchurch, Queens Town .