Gay Australia

Australia has much in store for both the outback enthusiast and the culture/culinary connoisseur in you.  Though Australia has long been known as the ideal vacation spot for backpackers and outback adventurers, it is also home to some of the world’s most renowned dance, opera, and theatre companies. 

To begin with the outdoors, Australia boasts of at least nine different animal habitats (i.e. nine different climate/geographical regions for you to explore!) including: desert, rainforest, woodland, swampland, grassland, and oceanic regions.  Such habitat diversity in addition to the geographic isolation and dynamic weather conditions of the continent means that Australia is home to unique animal and plant life.  Should you take an outback, adventure, or eco-tour you will have the once in a life time opportunity to see such animals as the platypus, kangaroo, koala, wombat, emu, and the kookaburra each in their native habitats. 

In addition to Australia’s unique and attractive flora and fauna, the continent features 16 World Heritage Sites, many of which are easily accessible to tourists and backpackers in the form of national parklands.  Another perk of traveling “down under” is the abundance of sporting events afforded by the diverse Australian terrain.  After backpacking in the national parks and exploring the outback, spend several days on the beaches surfing, swimming, or snorkeling.  Once you feel sufficiently sun-soaked, head to the mountains for a few days of climbing or skiing, depending on the season.   

Not only will you enjoy exploring the many natural sites of Australia, but you will also be amazed at the diversity of cityscapes and the multicultural population of this island continent.  In major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra you will find large international populations.  Wander into Chinatown, Little Italy, or the Vietnamese, Greek, or Lebanese neighborhoods for delightful authentic meals and shopping opportunities. 

While the nation’s capital, Canberra, is often overshadowed by the larger cities of Sydney and Melbourne, it is home to many fine national monuments and museums enjoyed by both domestic and international travelers.  And the country as a whole has an international reputation in the arts, with major theatre, ballet, and opera companies based in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. 

The Australian culture and arts have been influenced by the indigenous cultures of the continent, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.  Indigenous dance and music groups perform at numerous locations throughout the country; attendance at one of these performances promises an experience of cultural and historical significance.  And don’t forget to catch a cricket, rugby, or netball game while you’re traveling down under!

You will find many gay and gay-friendly venues in the south-eastern coastal cities of Australia—Sydney being the most popular destination for gay and lesbian travelers.  The rural Australian outback is rumored to be less welcoming than the coastal urban centers; but, with proper gay travel resource guides or organized tours, you should be able to find a network of friendly accommodations and enjoy your trip without any trouble. 

If you want to read a gay travel guide to Australia before or after you make reservations, just click the link: Australia Gay Guide

See you in the great Down Under! (Check out our international calling cards and international travel insurance on our "Travel Accessories" page.)

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