1. SURFERS PARADISE
It is no secret that Australia is world renowned for it's beaches. Surfers Paradise has to be one of the most popular Australian beaches alongside Bondi Beach in Sydney. Feel the sand between your toes, tan to your hearts content or escape the blistering heat in the blue waters. If you can drag yourself away from the beach, head to Cavill Avenue for a spot of shopping. At night Surfers Paradise turns into an adult's playground. Restaurants, bars and clubs line the streets making this an ideal nightlife spot.

2. THEME PARKS
Perhaps the greatest highlight of the Gold Coast is it’s abundance of theme parks! Dreamworld, White Water World, Wet ’n’ Wild, Seaworld and Movie World are all located on the coast. Great multi packages are always on offer to take the hassle out of having to choose between them. Whether you want to drop 120 metres from the sky at Dreamworld or swim with dolphins at Seaworld, the Gold Coast has you covered!

3. GOLD COAST HINTERLANDS
The Gold Coast Hinterlands are simply exquisite. Wineries, hiking trails, lush rain forests, boutique shops and cafes cover the hills. Mount Tamborine offers stunning hiking trails to hidden waterfalls while the ‘best of all lookout’ at Springbrook offers spectacular views. For something different, don’t miss the glow worm caves at night on Springbrook. 

4. BEACHES 
Common knowledge amongst Australian's, the Gold Coast is home to some of Australia’s most stunning beaches. With dozens of beaches to choose from there is something for everyone! Be sure to check out my personal favourites, Kirra and Coolangatta. Kirra is a great spot for surfing while Coolangatta offers visitors all the beach essentials, providing boutique shopping and extrodinary cuisine as well.

5. Q1
The Gold Coast’s tallest high-rise and hotel doubles as a popular tourist destination. The Q1 skydeck offers 360 panoramic views of the city. Sit back and relax with a wine in hand or embrace your inner thrill seeker and complete the skypoint climb! If you're after food with a view check out Sevety7 Cafe & Bar. They are a little pricey but I promise the coastline views are priceless!

6. ADVENTURE SPORTS
When it comes to adventure sports look no further then the Gold Coast. Jet skis, sky diving, parasailing, jet boat riding and hot air ballooning. You name it, the Gold Coast does it! To find an adrenaline rush to suit your budget, I highly recommend booking through Red Balloon. They offer a comprehensive guide to activities around Australia at discounted prices! 

7. DRACULA'S CABARET RESTAURANT
Welcome to the strange world of Dracula's! Hilarious twisted comedy mixed with amazing stage production, sounds and costumes, all while enjoying a delicious 3 course meal. Get your night started with one of Dracula's signature fish bowl cocktails which double as a great way to calm your nerves after the ghost train. This experience is definitely a must see while at the Gold Coast! Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment as they sell out fast.

8. CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Similar to the Koala Wildlife Sanctuary in Brisbane, Currumbin offers tourists an authentic Australian Wildlife experience. Cuddle a Koala, hand feed Kangaroos and get involved in Lorikeet feeding time. To get around the sanctuary in style consider joining a Segway Safari for as little as $69!

9. INFINITY
No matter how old I get or how many times I've been before, Infinity never gets old! The lighting and effects is truly what makes this place magical. Essentially a large maze, journey through several rooms where each is more incredible then the next. Infinity describes itself as 'a mindblowing journey through worlds of illusion' which couldn't be closer to the truth. Don't trust me? Discover Infinity for yourself!

10. SHOPPING
Sometimes all you want to do is shop. Are you with me ladies? Harbour Town is Australia's largest outlet with hundreds of stores to tempt you. For all the latest fashion trends check out Pacific Fair at Broadbeach. If you're looking for a standard shopping mall Robina Town Centre is a great destination. For a more local shopping experience check out Surfers Paradise beachfront on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday nights for great market bargains!

1. HAIGH'S CHOCOLATE FACTORY
Possibly the world's best chocolate, Haigh's is Australia's oldest family-owned chocolate producer. For chocolate lovers a trip to the Haigh's chocolate factory is a must. What's even better then sampling chocolate you ask? Guided tours of this factory are free!

2. HAHNDORF
Situated in the Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf is Australia's oldest German town and a real local gem.  European inspired gift shops and boutiques combined with German pubs gives Hahndorf visitors an authentic European experience to remember.

3. MONARTO ZOO
The Monarto Zoo is the world's largest open-range zoo and offers visitors what I would describe as the closest experience you can get to an African Safari. Get up close to the extremely rare White Rhino, marvel at the incredibly fast Cheetah and appreciate Australia's very own Tasmania Devil. 

4. STATE LIBRARY OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
The State Library of South Australia is perhaps my favourite spot in Adelaide. The Mortlock Wing was rated in the top 20 most beautiful libraries in the world by Travel & Leisure and simply does not disappoint! Located conveniently next to the University of Adelaide on North Terrace, the library is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the CBD while enjoying the architecture and knowledge kept within the walls.

5. BOROSSA VALLEY
If there is anything that South Australia does well it's wine! The Borossa Valley is located a convenient hour drive from Adelaide. Popular wineries Jacobs Creek, Penfolds and Wolf Blass can all be found in one of Australia's most famous wine regions.

6. MUSEUM OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
The Museum of South Australia draws you in from the moment you lock eyes on it. Much like the majority of Adelaide, the victorian style building is a masterpiece in itself. Explore inside to discover animals from around the world and an in-depth discovery into the culture of aborigines and pacific island regions.

7. GLENELG
Glenelg or as locals call it, ‘the bay’, is a stunning beachside strip located 20 minutes from the city centre. White sandy beach that actually squeaks - check! Crystal clear waters - check! Jetty for fishing, jetty jumping or simply taking in the views - check! What more could you want? Mm actually, maybe fish and chips!

8. GOUGER STREET
A culinery lovers delight! Goucher Street is one of Adelaide's best places to eat. Whether you are after a well cut steak from an Argentinian Steak House or looking to treat yourself to world renowned desserts, Gouger Street really does have it all! 

9. ADELAIDE GAOL
For a unique glimpse into Adelaide's history you can't pass up the opportunity to explore the Adelaide Gaol. Journey into the past to the site where 45 people were hung and over 300,000 prisoners were detained. For those who believe in the supernatural, why not opt for a night ghost tour?

10. MOUNT LOFTY SUMMIT
If you aren'y shy of hills and want to wear in your Nike's, head to Mount Lofty Summit for a challenging but rewarding climb. There are two trails available, of which I would recommend Waterfall Gully. Complete your adventure with stunning 360 degree panoramic views on top of the summit while enjoying a beverage or light meal at the summit cafe. 

CAFES
1. CAFE TROPPO
42 Whitmore Square, Adelaide City
2. ARGO ON THE PARADE
212 The Parade, Norwood
3. CAFFE CENA
101-103 Prospect Road, Prospect
4. PLEASE SAY PLEASE
Shop 2, 50 Grenfell Street, Adelaide City
5. NOSHERY FOOD & COFFEE BAR
333 King William Street, Adelaide

CASUAL DINING
1. CHUCK WAGON
175 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide
2. GRILLED
13A The Parade & George Street, Norwood
3. ADELAIDE CENTRAL MARKET
44-60 Gouger Street, Adelaide City
4. BEACH BURRITO COMPANY
56 Jetty Road, Glenelg
5. THE LION HOTEL
161 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide

PUBS
1. THE GERMAN ARMS
69 Main Street, Hahndorf
2. THE ARCHER
60 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide
3. COOPERS ALE HOUSE
316 Pulteney Street, Adelaide City
4. BELGIUM BEER CAFE
Ebenezer Place, Adelaide City
5. KINGS HEAD
357 King William Street, Adelaide

RESTAURANTS 
1. PRESS FOOD & WINE
40 Waymouth Street, Adelaide City
2. LA TRATTORIA
346 King William Street, Adelaide City
3. GAUCHO’S
91 Gouger Street, Adelaide City
4. STAR OF SIAM
67 Gouger Street, Adelaide City
5. SOSTA ARGENTINIAN KITCHEN
291 Rundle Street, Adelaide City 

DESSERTS
1. COPENHAGEN
253 Seaview Road, Henley Beach
2. CHOCOLATERIA SAN CHURRO
43 Goucher Street, Adelaide City 
3. BRACEGIRDLES
289 Cross Road, Clarence Gardens
4. SIKKOS PANNEKOEKN HUIS
3/3-15 Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf
5. MURATTI CAKES & GATEAUX
114B Prospect Road, Prospect

TAPAS & BARS
1. GALLERY
30 Waymouth Street, Adelaide City
2. THE COLLINS BAR
233 Victoria Square, Adelaide City
3. UDABERRI
11-13 Leigh Street, Adelaide City
4. CASABLABLA
12 Leigh Street, Adelaide City
5. 2KW
2 King William Street, Adelaide City

Stunning beaches, hippy yet trendy cafes, talented buskers and an all round vibe of relaxation. Byron Bay you are simply brilliant! 
I returned yesterday from a 3 day stay here and if weather had of been a little more accommodating I can’t have imagined leaving! Everywhere you look you will spot wetsuits, surfboards and kombi vans. I often asked myself if anyone actually works here or if it is all just play!

PLAY
Byron is a backpacker’s paradise. This town is where vacations never end, wearing thongs is a must and make-up will make you look oddly out of place. Not by any means cheap compared to other parts of Australia, Byron Bay will however give you a true feel of Australia. We love our beaches, we love our surfing, we love our music and we love our relaxed lifestyle. Surf boards are available for hire on every street corner so grab yourself a board and hit the beach. If you are extremely untalented like me and can’t surf no matter how many times you’ve tried, grab a sea kayak and head off shore for your chance to paddle alongside dolphins. If you can drag yourself away from the surf, hike up to the iconic bay light house to treat yourself with panoramic views of the coastline. Walk the streets of Byron and watch the sun set over the beach with a coldie at Beach Hotel. If the weather is against you head to Circus Arts to have a go at indoor rock climbing or take a flying trapeze class while the rain dies off.

EAT
Love coffee? Who doesn’t! Check out Twisted Sista Cafe. They make a mean mocha and have lots of home made goodies to snack on. For a great quality pub meal at affordable prices I couldn’t recommend more highly the Byron Bay Brewery. Lunch and Dinner specials are available during the week for $9.50. The 200g rump steak, chips and salad I was severed up on Monday night was worth writing home about! While at Byron Bay Brewery be sure to sample good old Aussie beer! $18 will score you a taste of all 6 beers brewed here daily. 

STAY
When visiting Byron Bay you have 3 main options for accommodation; Camping, Hostels and Hotels. 

CAMPING
Prices start from $40 per night
I would recommend a stay at the First Sun Holiday Park. Situated on the Belongil Beach front you can forgive the humble site sizes when you can fall asleep to the sound of the ocean. On a side note I found most people seemed to have decked out vans which might explain why I was the only one actually camping here! Clarkes Beach is a little more secluded and would be a great spot for families with kids. Prices here start at around $65 per night during school holidays. 

HOSTEL
Prices start from $30 per night
For a central location you can’t go past Nomad’s Byron Bay. Modern and clean facilities all within the heart of Byron. They even have Jacuzzis! I opted to stay at the Arts Factory Lodge due to their special on private rooms. A large, buzzing hostel with a tour desk, smoothie booth and entertainment galore. This property has the typical hippy Byron feel. The camping section looks worse then I’d imagine an African refugee camp to look like. However, if you’re all for the vibe and don’t mind slumming it the camp ground section could be for you. The best news? Free shuttle buses run into town until 4am so whether you are hitting the surf or hitting the town you don’t have to worry about finding your own way home. 

HOTEL
Prices start from $99 per night
When you go to Byron the last thing you’ll be doing is hauling up in your hotel room. This is what made camping and hostels an ideal choice for me. However, if you have a bit of extra cash up your sleeve there are several hotels available to suit your needs. Simply drive down the main strip into Byron and you’ll be spoilt for choice!

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
COST - For a 3 day, 2 night stay I spent around $300 AUD including fuel, accommodation, meals and activities
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES - Just remember no matter how hippy the vibe in Byron may be, marijuana is still illegal throughout all of Australia

Welcome to the cultural hub of Australia. Located on the scenic east coast of Australia, Sydney is the most populous city in the Oceania region. Overcrowded and buzzing with tourists, try to look past this to discover what this vibrant city has to offer!

1. OPERA HOUSE
Perhaps the most photographed Australian icon, The Sydney Opera house is a performing arts centre and musical hub.

2. HARBOUR BRIDGE
When I think of Sydney this is what pops into mind. If you're an adrenaline junkie climb the bridge or if you're faint hearted don't miss the spectacular firework display on NY's Eve!

3. TARONGA ZOO
Home to a world renowned chimpanzee family, giraffe encounters and playful meerkats. Get up close and personal with some of the world's most incredible creatures!

4. SYDNEY AQUARIUM
Explore life under the sea! Gaze at incredible fish, sharks and one of my personal favourites, the blue spotted ray! 

5. LUNA PARK
A place where both kids and adults alike can play. Climb aboard the Ferris Wheel providing 360 degree views over the city, Wild Mouse roller coaster for an adrenaline rush or Hair Raiser drop if you aren't afraid of heights!

6. OPERA BAR
In my opinion this is the ultimate weekend hotspot when travelling to Sydney. Enjoy spectacular views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge while sipping away on a cold one in the Australian heat. Don't forget to indulge in a mouth watering gourmet pizza!

7. DARLING HARBOUR
Particularly stunning at night, Darling Harbour is alive any day of the week. An abundance of restaurants, shops and attractions makes Darling Harbour the perfect spot all day round.

8. THE ROCKS
A cool trendy vibe! There are plenty of activities on offer at The Rocks. If you are like me and enjoy a leisurely stroll, wander through the markets to enjoy talented local buskers such as Mark Wilkinson who was playing during my trip here in 2011.

9. BONDI BEACH
White sandy beach, killer waves and home to some of Australia's best bodies. Need I say more? Oh and if you're a fan of reality TV, Bondi Rescue and Bondi Vet are both based here!

10. AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM
Located in Darling Harbour, this Museum displays historical vessels such as HMAS Onslow and James Cook's replica HMB.