Australians are some of the most well-travelled citizens of the world but our passports have been looking a little bare in the last couple of years. It's time to start mapping out your holiday plans for the new year and collecting some stamps! After all this time homebound, you probably have a list of travel ideas longer than your arm but if you're wondering where to travel in 2023 then we have some recommendations for you. From the tropical shores of the Pacific to affordable Asia and the snowy slopes of alpine adventure, TravelOnline has rounded up the top travel destinations for Australians in 2023.
This tropical paradise is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. Fiji has long been at the top of Aussie travellers wish lists and 2023 is no different. In fact, the Pacific destination has been so popular that many of the resorts are already fairly solidly booked for the year, particularly in peak periods. For Aussie holidaymakers who want to enjoy the lush tropical landscapes, clear blue waters, snorkelling, diving, surfing and cultural experiences of Fiji, we recommend booking very soon for the last remaining dates in 2023.
If you still want island relaxation but are up for a bit of adventure and possibly something new, we encourage you to consider Vanuatu. With its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical climate, Vanuatu is a popular holiday destination for many Australians and a hidden gem waiting to be discovered for others. Located in the South Pacific, Vanuatu offers a range of activities and attractions including snorkelling, diving, hiking, and cultural experiences. Vanuatu is also a relatively short flight from Australia, making it an easily accessible destination for Aussies looking for a tropical getaway.
Located in Indonesia, Bali is known for its tropical beaches, affordable shopping, dining and spa treatments as well as ornate temples and cultural attractions. Just 4 hours from Australia's west coast, Bali is an alluring tropical island swathed in lush green rice paddies and picturesque clifftops and coastline. Unlike anywhere else on earth, Bali's sun-kissed shores meet surging surf breaks and a traditional, harmonious way of life that highlights sacred temples, local rituals and an authentic national cuisine that also serves as a tourist drawcard. Whether you're seeking a relaxing island escape, or thrilling cultural adventure, Bali is guaranteed to impress.
Famous as an alpine winter playground, New Zealand is always a favourite ski holiday destination. Queenstown in particular is the South Island's skiing hotspot and draws countless Australian visitors every year. Offering a wide range of terrain, from beginner slopes to advanced backcountry runs, New Zealand ski holidays are suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. New Zealand also has a long ski season, which typically runs from June to October, providing ample opportunity for visitors to hit the slopes. New Zealand is known for its stunning natural beauty, and many ski resorts are located in picturesque settings, allowing visitors to enjoy the stunning landscapes while skiing.
This Southeast Asian country is known for its stunning temples, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. A great deal of its popularity stems from its relatively low cost of living, making Thailand a great destination for budget travellers. Accommodation, food and drink are all available at very reasonable prices and the famous street food offers a wide variety of delicious, authentic and relatively cheap local cuisine. Thailand's rich culture and history can be experienced through its ancient temples, traditional dance performances and colourful festivals. It's also known for its friendly and welcoming people, making it a desirable destination for tourists looking for a unique and enjoyable holiday experience.
But what about holiday destinations at home? There's so many Australian cities we know and love, but have you checked them all off your list? Whether you're returning to dive deeper into a city you've visited before or seek to discover a new favourite, there are so many reasons why our great nation's cities have become favourite getaways. Some of the most popular domestic destinations include:
Australia's largest city, it's known for its iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge along with beautiful beaches, and world-class dining and shopping. A cosmopolitan city with a diverse and vibrant culture, Sydney is a beautiful city with a lot to see and do and is a great place to visit for people of all ages and interests.
Melbourne is a cultural capital home to a vibrant arts scene and is known for its excellent food, café culture, street art and serious sports fans. Melbourne is known for its bohemian vibe and is a very liveable city, consistently ranking highly in global surveys on quality of life. Famous for its vibrant live music scene and world-class sporting events, the city also has a reputation for its excellent food and coffee.
Located in the subtropical region of Queensland, Brisbane is known for its sunny weather, outdoor activities, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef. The city features a number of galleries, museums, and cultural institutions as well as popular outdoor attractions including South Bank Parklands and the Brisbane River. It's also just an hour's drive in either direction from the glittering beaches of the beautiful Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Just a few hours north lay the popular tourist destinations of Cairns, Port Douglas, the Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef.
This Western Australian city is known for its beautiful beaches, wineries, and outdoor adventures in the nearby bushland and national parks. The capital of Western Australia, Perth is the gateway to a variety of the state's most incredible landscapes including famous Rottnest Island. It's also home to a number of iconic landmarks and attractions, such as Kings Park, the Perth Zoo, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The city is also well-known for its outdoor lifestyle, with a range of recreational activities available, including golf, surfing, and bushwalking.
Of course these are just a few examples, and there are many other destinations that may be popular for Australians to visit for one reason or another.
Did we miss any? Tell us which travel destination is at the top of your list for 2023 in the comments below.
