Natural space and climate on the red continentThe Australian continent consists to a large extent of deserts and tablelands. Due to extreme temperatures and persistent drought, the center of the country is almost uninhabitable. The further you get towards the coast, the more diverse the landscape becomes. Queensland, located in the north-east, has some Caribbean looking islands with white sandy beaches and coral reefs, in the north of Australia there are tropical rain forests and immense national parks. The south belongs to the temperate climate zone and hosts different fora and flora which are suited to the more moderate climate. The geographical isolation of Australia has led to many native animal and plant species being preserved in their original form. A special mention goes to the marsupials: kangaroos, koalas and wombats. Australia is also home to one of the world’s most unique mammals, the egg-laying, web-footed platypus. Australia's insect and reptile population are also extremely diverse – and extremely poisonous.Outdoor sports in AustraliaAustralians enjoy hiking, walking, and cycling with the continent providing superbly for these activities. Cricket, Australian football, and rugby are particularly popular among Australians. International visitors can enjoy spectating at one of the many world-class sporting venues or might consider joining a game of backyard cricket at a BBQ. Australia is also known for its wide range of water sports, especially surfing and diving. Australian cities under the microscopeAre you headed to the coast, or do you prefer the outback? Considering the sheer size of Australia, it is impossible to experience this whole fascinating country in only one trip. Despite the impressive natural landscape, do not miss out on the Australian metropolis. They are the starting point and destination of all Australian trips and are a welcome change from the adventures far away from civilization.
