Australia offers a multitude of adventures and experiences, but for right now, let's focus on the Gold Coast and the eastern part of the country.

The Gold Coast's Surfer's Paradise is a haven for wave riders which is why surfing is the first activity on the list!

‍Surf in Surfer's Paradise: The Gold Coast's Surfer's Paradise is a mecca for surf enthusiasts. With its golden sandy beaches and consistent waves, it offers the perfect conditions for riders of all levels.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a novice eager to learn, Surfer's Paradise provides the ideal backdrop for riding the waves and soaking up the vibrant beach culture.

Visit the Great Barrier Reef: Australia is home to the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's largest coral reef system.
‍

Embark on a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure to explore the reef's vibrant marine life and coral formations. You'll encounter a kaleidoscope of fish, sea turtles, and the stunning beauty of this natural wonder.

Explore the Rainforest and Springbrook National Park: In the eastern part of Australia, you can immerse yourself in lush rainforests and national parks like Springbrook.

Here, you can embark on breathtaking hikes, witness picturesque waterfalls, and discover unique flora and fauna. Don't miss the chance to explore the mesmerizing Natural Bridge and the subtropical wonders of the Gondwana Rainforest.

Visiting Australia in Summertime
‍If you're planning to explore Australia during the Southern Hemisphere's summer, which falls between December and February, you're in for a treat.

This is the ideal time to explore the country's coastal regions and partake in outdoor activities. The Great Barrier Reef and Australia's stunning beaches are at their prime, with warm temperatures and ample sunshine.

It's the perfect season for snorkeling, surfing, and lounging by the beach. Summer also offers the opportunity to witness the remarkable New Year's Eve fireworks over Sydney Harbor.

Exploring Australia in Wintertime
‍Australia's winter, spanning from June to August, is also a wonderful time to explore. During this season, the weather is a little milder and more comfortable for activities like hiking, bushwalking, and exploring national parks. The iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Red Centre is more pleasant to visit, as it's not as scorching hot as during the summer months.

Winter is also the season for whale watching along the southern and eastern coasts, where you can witness the majestic migration of humpback whales. While the northern regions remain warm, southern Australia experiences cooler temperatures and even sees some snow in New South Wales and Tasmania.

When it comes to accommodation in Australia, you'll find a wide array of options to suit your preferences and budget.
‍

During my time studying abroad in Australia, I had the opportunity to live on Griffith's University's campus. (If you have the chance to study abroad in Australia, do it!) There's public transportation available so I never rented a car. Instead, I walked, took a bus, train or G:link.

The Gold Coast in Australia has a tram system known as the G:link, which is a light rail network that runs along the coastal area of Queensland's Gold Coast. The G:link provides a super convenient transportation option for residents and tourists, connecting various suburbs, popular destinations, and the central business district of the Gold Coast.
‍
Beyond on-campus living, you can explore a range of choices, including hostels, budget-friendly guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and luxurious resorts. Use booking.com or Expedia to find options.

You have to try the Tim Tams! These Aussie treats, are chocolate-coated biscuits that double as the perfect coffee-dipping sidekick. Dip 'em in your hot brew, take a bite, and get ready for a flavor-packed, gooey good time – it's an Australian snacking adventure you won't want to miss!

Planning a budget trip to Australia requires some strategic thinking, especially as the flight cost, particularly from North America, is often the most significant expense. To make the most of your journey, aim to stay at least 10 days, or longer if possible.

The lengthy flight is a substantial investment both from a time standpoint and place ticket price, so it's wise to maximize your time on the ground. Here are my tips to get you started with your plan!
‍

Book Affordable Flights: Keep an eye on flight deals, and book well in advance to secure the best prices. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into different Australian cities to find the most economical option.

‍Explore Hostels and Guesthouses: Accommodation can take a substantial chunk of your budget. Look for hostels and guesthouses, which are often more affordable than hotels. They're also great places to meet fellow travelers and share experiences.

‍Use Public Transportation: Australia has an extensive and efficient public transportation system. Instead of renting a car, use buses, trams, and trains to get around cities and explore the country. Public transportation can be cost-effective and provides a chance to see the landscapes up close without having to worry about parking a car.

Cook Your Meals: Dining out can add up quickly, so consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities. Shopping at local markets and cooking your meals can save a significant amount of money.

Plan Free and Low-Cost Activities: Australia offers plenty of free and budget-friendly attractions. Explore beautiful beaches, national parks, and hiking trails. Take advantage of free city tours and visit museums and galleries on days with discounted entry.

‍Look for Deals and Passes: Check for deals on tours, activities, and attraction passes, which can provide substantial savings. For example, the Australia Multi-City Attractions Pass often offers reduced prices when visiting multiple attractions.

Budget for Extras: Allocate some funds for unexpected expenses, such as transportation within cities, souvenirs, and occasional dining out. Having a cushion in your budget can provide peace of mind.

Besides kangaroos and koalas, Australia is home to a plethora of unique wildlife. It's one of two places in the world where you can find monotremes like the platypus and echidna which are different from other mammals because both of these animals lay eggs.

Melbourne, Australia, has the largest Greek population of any city in the world, except for Athens. This vibrant Greek community has greatly influenced the city's cultural and culinary landscape.

The Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a breathtaking testament to nature's diversity and grandeur. Stretching over 1,400 miles along the coast of Queensland, Australia, this living masterpiece is the world's largest coral reef system. It showcases an incredible variety of marine life, with thousands of species of fish, coral, and other organisms residing within its vibrant and complex ecosystems.

Australia is home to the world's longest fence, known as the "Dingo Fence" or "Dog Fence." Stretching over 3,480 miles, it was originally built to keep dingoes away from fertile lands in southeastern Australia.

Australia is home to Fraser Island, the world's largest sand island. Fraser Island, located off the coast of Queensland, is sure to amaze you with its stunning landscapes, including ancient rainforests, crystal-clear lakes, and a 75-mile-long beach composed entirely of pure, white sand. Check out the Fraser Tours here!

In Australia, the main language is English, making this country easy for English-speaking travelers. Aussie English has its own unique flavor though, with plenty of slang and a distinctive accent, but you'll have no trouble communicating. Plus, Australia's multicultural vibes mean you'll likely hear a mix of languages, adding to the unique atmosphere of the country.