The AA Education Network’s Top 10 Destinations

Through travelling, research and the opinions of international students we have compiled a list of the top ten must see destinations in Australia just for you. Undoubtedly the list could have been longer, with many contenders spread across this vast country, however we considered it our duty to limit it to ten…and only ten.

Uluru/Ayers Rock (Northern Territory) - This giant rock stands massive and proud in the centre of Australia; it is and always will be an amazing natural landmark and an iconic symbol of the nation. Coming in at number 1, the red rock demands your attention and definitely got ours. There is nothing like it in the world!

The Great Barrier Reef (Queensland) - With almost an infinite amount of aquatic, coral and bird life, it is no wonder that this heritage area has been hailed as the “7th” natural wonder of the world. You can see the reefs by boat, yacht, snorkelling and diving, high above the reef in a helicopter or down below in underwater observatories. Whichever way you see it, the beauty of this place will not disappoint.

Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House (NSW) - Known for its slick architectural brilliance and memorable curves, the Sydney Opera House is a work of art. The Opera House showcases Australia’s finest Opera and Ballet and its neighbour – The Harbour Bridge is just as dazzling. You can climb both the higher and lower chords of the Bridge for spectacular views of the harbour and city.

Kangaroo Island - Australia’s third largest island offers stunning beaches and coastline, cave exploration, a fantastic lookout spot over the whole island and an abundance of native wildlife including – kangaroos, wallabies, platypus, lion seals and many more. There are also some great camping sites, lagoons and walking tracks.

New Parliament House (Canberra) - Immerse yourself in the history and politics of Australia’s capital home – Parliament House. Be guided around the ‘great halls of power’ or be part of an ‘open sitting session’ and watch politicians debate the significant issues of the day.

Hunter Valley (NSW) - The Hunter Valley is Australia’s food and wine Mecca. Enjoy wine tasting from some of Australia’s finest vineyards, dine at some world class restaurants, see the valley by steam train or simply go on a relaxing scenic cruise on the Hunter River.

The Great Ocean Road - It doesn’t take long from Melbourne to get onto The Great Ocean Road, but when you do, it is bound to inspire all your senses. This idyllic road weaves and wraps around stunning coastline, offering fantastic views of the Southern Ocean and Bass Strait. Look out for the incredible ‘twelve apostles’ – a series of giant limestone stacks that emerge from the edges of the sea.

Broome (Western Australia) - Explore the colourful history of this exotic pearling town. Go on a camel ride at sunset when the weather is still balmy. Indulge yourself in the luxuriously warm waters of cable beach or be captivated by 100 million year old dinosaur footprints at Gantheaume Point.

Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair National Park (Tasmania) - Cradle Mountain and the Lake St. Clair National Park are areas of breathtaking natural beauty. Above the picturesque, glacially formed lakes stands Cradle Mountain at 1,545m’s. Take a hike on the famous Overland Track which takes you through amazing landscapes such as rainforest, snowy plains, wild rivers and mountains.

Fraser Island (Queensland) - The original inhabitants of this island called it “The Paradise”. Encircled by endless white coastline and stunning turquoise waters is a great abundance of lush rainforest and towering sand cliffs. The island is also home to over to nearly 80 species of reptile, 50 species of mammal and over three hundred different kinds of birds.