The Incredible History of Australia

The human habitation in Australia began around some 65,000 years back. The Madjedbebe rock shelter is the most ancient site that showcased the presence of human life here. Aboriginal Australian culture is considered to be one of the oldest existing civilizations. 

7th century- 1606: Portrait of Captain James Cook is believed to have mapped the Eastern coastline of Australia. The Dutch from Portugues came here during the 17th century, during 1606. It was when they landed here at the Gulf of Carpentaria. Later in 1616, Australia was then called New Holland. 

Further, in 1688, the British arrived in the country. It was after the voyage of Captain James Cook in 1770 that Britishers claimed the possession of this enormous land. They called it a New South Wales. Later in 1788, at Port Jackson, a British penal colony was set up. Till 1839, around 161,000 convicts were settled here and that was when the system got suspended. 

Later part of the story goes as - many former prisoners and free settlers established six different colonies in Australia (as is called today). It was New South Wales in 1786, Tasmania in 1825, Western Australia in 1829, Queensland in 1859, Victoria in 1851, and South Australia in 1834. Settlers from across the globe were lured by its plenty of gold rushes, minerals, and mining. Within a small span of time, sheep started growing as one of the most favorites of the economic enterprises. 

Very soon the six colonies got converted to states. This progress continued and in 1901, it became the Commonwealth of Australia. The constitution came into existence that was a blend of U.S. federal traditions and British parliamentary. The liberal legislation became an integral part of Australia that included old-age pensions,  sickness pensions, free compulsory education, the secret ballot, women's suffrage, and more. 

With this fascinating history, you definitely have a great deal of scope to discover plenty of historical facts on your Australia vacation Trip. In fact, with this vacation, you can have the opportunity to witness these historical places and learn about their history. With a variety of vacation planning sites, you can easily find top Australia Vacations Packages for your 2019-2020 trip. In addition to this immensely fascinating history, there are plenty of other things, places, and occasions to enjoy. 

What Interesting Things You Can Do on your Australia Vacation?

The Great Barrier Reef:

Located on the northeastern coast of the country, the Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular sites to visit on your Australia vacation Trip. This particular place has a vast variety of coral reefs. With around 1,500 types of fish, 4000 Mollusc, and 400 types of corals, this place is one of the must-haves on the list of best places to visit on your vacation to Australia. In addition to that, the scientific significance that this place holds is important to understand when you are here. It’s a dwelling place for species like the large green turtle and the dugong. The reef is located off the Queensland coast in the Coral Sea. For the grandeur, this place holds, almost all Top Australia Vacation Packages will have this in their travel itinerary. 

Date of Establishment: 1981

Site Type: UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site

Interesting Fact: It got listed in the World Heritage Site in 1981.

Uluru:

Towering above the landscape in the vicinity, Uluru or Ayers Rock is one of the wonders that exist in the world. In addition to being a great site, it holds immensely great spiritual significance. The very time you set out your feet at this land, there’s an incredibly powerful thrust you will feel. This force is so deep that you’ll get an answer as to why it is considered a spiritually rich site. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which is also a UNESCO-listed site is admired by the local Aboriginal people. In fact, there’s something of great value to people with all kinds of beliefs. You can either choose a camel tour or opt for self-drive or can also opt to dine under a canopy of stars. Alternatively, you can select one of the top Australia Vacation Packages and be guided on that. It’s incredible to see Uluru changing its color from ochre to intense red, and burnished orange (from Sunrise to Sunset).

Date of Establishment: 1987

Site Type: UNESCO World Heritage-listed Site

Interesting Fact: You will see its different colors in different seasons of the year and even during the day (it changes color). 

Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge serves as a connecting space between the North Shore and Sydney central business district (CBD). This heritage-listed bridge is so designed to carry vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and more between the North Shore and Sydney central business district. Since the idea to work on the bridge construction germinates in 1815, it took around 100 years to complete the project. Later in 1912, the idea got approval from NSW Legislative Assembly, however, Legislative Council did not support the idea and they wanted the money to flow towards improving war conditions. In the later years, the construction started and today it stands so in pride, the grandeur that people from around the globe come to see this amazing human creation. 

Date of Establishment: 1932

Designed By: Dorman Long and Co Ltd of Middlesbrough

Construction start Date: July 28, 1923

Location: Sydney, Milsons Point

Interesting Fact: Philippe Petit once walked through a wire on the southern end of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 

Great Ocean Road:

The Great Ocean Road Drive is considered one of the best Road trips around the world. Starting from at a distance of an hour from Melbourne in Torquay to Warrnambool, it stretches for around 250 kilometers. This vast land is a fascination for people throughout the world. The Great Ocean Road Drive has to be one of the topmost places to visit on your Australia vacation trip. Built by the soldiers who had just come from WWI during 1919 – 1932, today it has become a pilgrimage for travelers who aim to visit most of the best places located along the Great Ocean Road. 

Construction Year: 1919 – 1932

Western end: Allansford, Victoria

Eastern end: Torquay, Victoria

Interesting Fact: The road ends just about 10 km east of Warrnambool in Allansford town.

Sydney Opera House:

Located on the Bennelong Point, the Sydney Opera House is one of the most loved tourist spots on an Australia vacation trip. The average cost of building the Sydney Opera House came out to be around $7 million. The complete cost of building the same came out to be $102 million, which was paid largely by a State Lottery. However the estimated time for the construction was four years, but it took 14 years for the construction to complete. There was around 10,000 worker who worked on the project. The first person to have performed at the Sydney Opera House was Paul Robeson.

First Performance: Ol' Man River

Inception Year: 1973

Interesting Fact: There’s this Topaz glass that was designed in France by Boussois-Souchon-Neuvesel, particularly for Opera House

Enlisted in UNESCO World Heritage Sites: 2007 

Bondi Beach

Bondi Beach is considered to be one of the most popular strips of sand. At this beach, in addition to the sunshine and surf, there’s much more to revel upon. Going around with those curious visitors is a  real wonderful experience. Anyone will enjoy being at one of the most popular beaches in the world that is Bondi Beach. Bordering a variety of sandstone headlands this place is a perfect destination for people who want to go for golfing, whale watching, and walking. Bondi will take you through the easy-going beach culture of the country. You’ll also enjoy picnics, fish, chips, and more. There are also plenty of vibrant cafés and bars in the backdrop of the Campbell Parade. 

Location: 30 minutes away from Town Hall Station by train or bus

Inception Year: 1851

Interesting Fact: In 1882, it was declared officially a public beach. Later in 1929, around 60,000 travelers were estimated to have been visiting Bondi beach.

Twelve Apostles - Visitor Facility

Twelve Apostles - the 12 limestone pillars have become one of the major tourist attractions in Australia. Once it used to be a part of the mainland cliffs. But, gradually, wind and waves molded the land in the form of caves and then arches, which finally took the form of 45-meter tall columns. As of now, there are 12 pillars, but, we may get to see some more in the future when another strip of land takes the form of a pillar. You must take in a bird’s eye view of the 12 Apostles on a helicopter flight. Also, explore the amazing coastline, and hike along the Great Ocean Walk.

Location: Near Port Campbell, Victoria

About: Is a collection of Limestone Stack

Interesting Fact: These 12 Apostles are located 275 km west of Melbourne. This place is around a four-hour driving distance from the Great Ocean Road.

Darling Harbour

With more than 1.3 million people visiting the country from around the world, “the Darling Harbour” is considered to be one of the most popular Leisure travel destinations in Sydney. An extremely rich history is a great part of this section of the country. It offers an array of things for travelers to do - from being a great shopping spot to having over 50 eating and drinking outlets, the place has no dearth of options. Probably, this is the reason that this place is called “Darling Harbor”. 

Location: Sydney New South Wales, Australia

Site Type: Largest Recreational Center

Interesting Fact: Darling Harbor is also called 'Tumbalong', which means a place where you can find seafood. 

What is the Best Time to Plan Australia Vacation?

This will definitely depend on many factors according to your needs and requirements including budget, preferences, and more such things. In general, when you’ll select Australia Packages, you’ll be guided on this. But, before you finally decide to plan your Amazing Australia Vacation, it’s always going to be great to consider some weather/climatic conditions. Let us help you with that. Here we go.

How about Seasons in Australia?

The most suitable time to visit the country is from September to November and from March till May. Particularly in the capital city, Sydney, these months are great for travelers both in terms of temperature and the crowd. During the fall and spring season, another advantage of tourists is that the prices get too low. 

Important Events During Different Seasons

Another important criterion for many people when deciding the best time to plan a vacation are the events. During different parts of the year, there are going to different events that one can witness. Here is a sneak peek into the same:

Top Famous Australia Destinations & Attractions

Sydney

Anyone who can connect their soul with a place where they are traveling, Sydney is a must-have destination on the bucket list for them. This pleasant plus vibrant odyssey has everything to reinvigorate the joy of traveling within. Sydney is one of the most sought after destinations for a vacation in Australia. In addition to the great Sydney Harbour, the other two iconic sites - Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge can sweep anyone’s heart off their feet. Not only that, but the city is also home to many captivating beaches, museums, a lovely botanical garden, Michelin star restaurants, and an array of other historical sites. Here’s a snippet of how you can spend your time in Sydney. 

Where to visit in Sydney?

1. Sydney Harbour Bridge

2. Opera House

3. Darling Harbour

4. Iconic Paddy’s Markets

5. Bondi Beach

6. Dinner at Circular Quay

7. Visiting the Royal Botanic Gardens

8. Visit the Luna Park

Melbourne

After Sydney, Melbourne is another charming destination on a particular Australia vacation. Being the cultural and sporting capital, this is one of those locations in the country that attracts travelers from around the globe. The city is a perfect blend of the cosmopolitan life and historical richness. Be it the swanky bars to the designer boutiques and the historical landmarks, there is no dearth of uniqueness to discover in the city. You can enrich your soul by diving deeper into the rich Victorian heritage at the Royal Exhibition Building. This is, in fact, the world’s oldest exhibition pavilion that still exists. Here’s how you can keep yourself involved in this part of your Australia vacation.

Where to visit in Melbourne?

1. World’s best coffee

2. The amazing street art

3. Flinders Street Station

4. The botanic gardens

5. Enjoy gourmet Greek dinner

6. The Queen Victoria Markets

7.  Admirable Aboriginal art

Cairns

Cairns is another most visited location on any Australia vacation - this is true for both the backpackers and the natives. Cairns offers an unimaginable perspective for adventure and happiness for every traveler. Head towards any direction and there will be something to revel for every type of travelers. From the idyllic Atherton Tablelands to Great Barrier Reef and rugged Daintree - there’s an array of sites to visit on any Australia vacation. In addition to that, you can go for waterfall hunting in Atherton, go skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef, and hunt for the cassowary in the Daintree. Here’s a sneak peek into how you can spend your time in Cairns:

Where to visit in Cairns?

1. The Great Barrier Reef

2. Cairns Botanical Gardens

3. Kuranda Scenic Railway

4. Palm Cove

5. Swim at the Crystal Cascades

6. Daintree Rainforest

7. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park

Brisbane

The capital city of Queensland and the third-largest city in Australia, Brisbane is one of the most sought after travel destinations in the country. Currently, with two million population, the city is growing at an incredibly fast pace. It offers travelers with a vibrant and exciting atmosphere! The extremely welcoming locals, wonderful climate throughout the year, and plenty of amazing sceneries, this place should be an important part of your Australia vacation. Here’s a sneak peek on how you can spend a great part of your vacation here. 

Where to visit in Brisbane?

1. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

2. Suncorp Stadium

3. Queensland Art Gallery & Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

4. Brisbane Lookout, Mount Coot-tha

5. Roma Street Parkland

Australia Vacation Packages 2022-2023

Without any doubt, Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations. A huge country with plenty of great things to see and visit. But, along with its galore and charm, the country is one of the most expensive vacation destinations. Be it the cost of accommodations, food, car rental, fuel, or anything else, it’s a little more expensive in Australia. However, by mindfully selecting Australia vacation packages you can help yourself deal with these expenses in a budget-friendly way.

Below we have a general cost estimation for different types of  Australia vacation packages and things it may include. The information given below may sometimes vary according to your preferences and requirements on the trip. 

You can get a general idea of your travel budget with this information:

5 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney & Cairns

Destinations: Sydney & Cairns

Minimum Price: $854 

Maximum Price: $1009

Vacation Duration: 5 Days

Activities on the Trip: The Great Barrier Reef, Museums, Iconic Landmarks, Local Markets, Snorkeling, Beaches, and more.

Hotel Type: 3 to 4 stars

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Top Places Covered in Sydney: Opera House Tour

Top Places Covered in Cairns: Kuranda Heritage Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Note: This is going to be a vacation with two nights in Sydney and three days in Cairns. Generally, in such packages International flights are not included. However, you can request for its inclusion. It may also Include shuttle transfer from your accommodation to the airport. The itineraries are usually flexible and can be customized as per your requirements.

5 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney & Melbourne

Destinations: Melbourne & Sydney

Minimum Price: $952

Maximum Price: $1999

Vacation Duration: 5 Days

Activities on the Trip: Vibrant nightlife and historical attractions, the Penguin Parade of Phillip Island, the wineries of the Yarra Valley, Great Ocean Road , Sydney Opera House, the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium.

Hotel Type: 3-star or 5-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: Such 5 days Australia vacation packages are so designed to allow travelers to explore Melbourne, the country’s cultural gateway. You’ll get first-class to moderate and economic accommodations; this will depend on your preferences and all other priorities.  With such Australia vacation packages, you’ll begin your beautiful odyssey from the most Liveable city in the world, Melbourne. Then proceed further to Sydney, the biggest parts of Australia.

7 Days Classic Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Melbourne,  Uluru or Ayers Rock

Destinations: Uluru or Ayers Rock, Sydney, Melbourne, Kakadu National Park.

Minimum Price: $1345

Maximum Price: $1621

Vacation Duration: 7 Days

Activities on the Trip: Sydney’s Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock, Australian Aboriginal culture, Ubirr Rock, and more.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 5-star 

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: With such week long Australia vacation packages, you’ll get to explore some of the most celebrated sites. The traveler develops a close connection with the Australia Aboriginal culture and native wildlife. In Melbourne, there’s a wonderful opportunity for shopping, endless swanky options, art scenes, and more. These vacation packages are generally designed to see the world renowned ‘Little Penguin Parade’ at the Phillip Island.

6 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Port Douglas, and Melbourne

Destinations: Sydney, Port Douglas, and Melbourne

Minimum Price/person: $989

Maximum Price/person: $1112

Vacation Duration: 6 Days

Activities on the Trip: The Sydney CBD, Darling Harbour, the Local Markets, Wildlife, visit the museums, Nightlife, Pubs, Historical Sites, Art & Architecture, Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House and more.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 4-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Top Places Covered in: Museums, Swanky Restaurants, bewitching beaches, Great Barrier Reef, Sightseeing Tours, and more.

Note: These types of Australia vacation packages, with 4 days & 6 nights trip will make for an exhilarating trip. You’ll be visiting the great Eastern coast covering Melbourne, Sydney, and Port Douglas. Such vacation package are designed particularly for those who have a keen desire to see Australia’s beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks, vibrant cities, and aboriginal history. This 6 days Australia vacation package covers Sydney, Port Douglas, and Melbourne.

6 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Ayers Rock, Alice Springs & Cairns

Destinations: Sydney, Cairns, Ayers Rock, and Alice Springs

Minimum Price: $1228

Maximum Price: $1442

Vacation Duration: 6 Days

Activities on the Trip: Shopping, Sightseeing, Historical tour of the city, Other Ocean activities included. Sydney: Sydney Opera House Tour, Alice Springs: Alice Springs to Ayers Rock, Ayers Rock: National Park, Sunrise Tour, Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise with Snorkeling.

Hotel Type: 3 star to 4 star.

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: With this 6-days Australia vacation package, you’ll get to spend one night in Sydney and one day each in Cairns, Alice Springs, and Ayers Rock. Generally International flights are not included with such vacation package, but could be included as per the request. Domestic flights from Sydney to Alice Springs and Ayers Rock to Cairns are included in most of these Australia vacation packages. 

8 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane & Adelaide

Destinations: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Cairns.

Minimum Price per Person: $1389

Maximum Price per person: $1509

Vacation Duration: 8 Days

Activities on the Trip: Shopping, strolling through the local market, Birdwatching, Snorkeling, Great Barrier Reef, Sightseeing, Art & Music, Wildlife, Beaches, Local Markets, and more.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 4-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: With this (8 days and 6 nights) Australia vacation package you’ll be visiting some of the most iconic places in the country. It’s time to delve deeper into the Aussie culture, wildlife, and into the iconic landmarks. The trip is going to start from Sydney, the sun-kissed city that is all filled with plenty of natural attractions, welcoming people, gigantic buildings, swanky restaurants and much more. 

9 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Alice Spring, Cairns, Brisbane & Melbourne

Destinations: Sydney, Gold Coast, Alice Spring, Cairns, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Ayers Rock

Minimum Price per person: $2134

Maximum Price per person: $2500

Vacation Duration: 9 days

Activities on the Trip: Beach trip, Outback, Theme Parks, Train, Local Tours, Rainforest, Wildlife, Restaurant, Aboriginal Culture, wine tours, Reef, and more.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 4-star.

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: With such (9 days and 7 nights) Australia vacation packages, you will have the freedom to explore some of the best locations in the country. Accommodation is going to be for three nights in Sydney and the rest is split among other destinations. International flights are not included, however can be requested further. You can get the itinerary customized to suit your requirements. 

6 Days Australia Vacation Package - Sydney, Brisbane & Cairns

Destinations: Brisbane, Cairns, & Sydney

Minimum Price per person: $980

Maximum Price per person: $1080

Vacation Duration: 6 days

Activities on the Trip: Nightlife, Reef, Restaurants, Iconic landmarks, wildlife, local markets, Snorkeling, Beaches, Museums, and more.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 4-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: Generally, such Australia vacation packages (6 days and 4 nights) will give you a great time enjoying this beautiful part of the Earth. The trip begins from Brisbane, the third largest cities of the country. The day tour includes a lot of it - Australia Zoo in Brisbane, Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Wildlife Dome in Cairns, and Opera House Tour in Sydney. You can either opt for an organized group tour or an independent travel. 

3 Days Australia Vacation Package - Great Ocean Road & Wildlife Ecotour

Destinations: Great Ocean Road & Wildlife Ecotour

Minimum Price: $1005

Maximum Price: $1201

Vacation Duration: 3 days

Activities on the Trip: Look for Koalas and kangaroos, Drive to the Great Ocean Road.

Hotel Type: 3-star to 5-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: Generally, such 3 days Australia vacation into the wild and beautiful, will let you see some of the most beloved natural wonders of Victoria. This includes the iconic Great Ocean Road and its native animals. Unlike all other trips, it’s a safari experience with Kangaroos & Koalas around. You also get to see reptiles, native birds, possums, emus, and more. And, then hitting the Great Ocean road is a wonderful experience. 

11 Days Australia Vacation Package - Western Australia

Destinations: Perth City

Minimum Price: $1945

Maximum Price: $2234

Vacation Duration: 11 Days

Activities on the Trip: The Perth Coastline, the Pinnacles Desert, the Indian Pacific railroad east to Sydney, King Park Botanical Gardens,  forest canopies of the Tree Top Walk, Cottesloe Beach, the Avon Valley

Hotel Type: 3-star to 4-star

Payment mode: Card/Debit, Cash

Note: Generally such 11 days Australia vacation packages will be taking you through Perth where you can explore the key destinations of Western Australia. This vacation package has accommodations - first-class, moderate or economy depending on your requirements and preferences. The journey generally starts in Perth and ends in New South Wales with a sight of the Blue Mountains. From Sydney you can catch your flight back home.

Leisure.com is an online platform that builds a healthy relationship between Travel agents & Travelers. These travel agents are experts in designing vacation packages as per your requirements. With expert assistance from these experienced agents, you can avail of all the facilities that a luxury tour must include. Leisure makes sure to get in touch with only those agents who are well-known and have the required experience in the field. Most of these vacation packages will include breakfast and dinner with a luxurious space to be in. Here’s a snippet of how Leisure agents will treat you on your vacation:

1. You’ll have access to an expert tour director along with local guides in specific areas (Note: wherever required).

2. These Leisure travel agents will provide you the facility of airport transfers at the time of arrival as well as departure. (Note: This will depend on the package you have availed)

3. Other significant facilities include Luggage porterage, cocktail bars, restaurant visits (when you want), and awesomely mouth-watering food.

Note: However, All the above facilities will solely depend on the package you have availed and things can vary accordingly.

Further, Leisure promises to provide every client with tailor-made vacations in accordance with their requirements. Let us understand how you can plan your Australia vacation in a better way and we will help you tick off your bucket list.