Blessed with picturesque mountains and beaches, Australia and New Zealand, without any doubts, are overflowing with natural wonders. The countries’ magnificent scenery offer photographers and painters the opportunity to expand their portfolios of landscape images. Artists can turn raw materials like opal, jade and paua shells from the grounds of Oceania into spectacular jewelry. The wealth of information on Aboriginal and Maori histories is available in museums throughout both countries.
Heading across the Pacific Ocean to Australia and New Zealand from the U.S. on Australia’s mammoth airplane, Qantas, is a seemingly endless journey. However, once you arrive, the long trip becomes well worth it. Airfares from Qantas (www.Qantas.com.au) can be purchased for as low as $560 roundtrip from Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Because Australia and New Zealand are located in the Southern Hemisphere, travelers from the Northern Hemisphere should keep the seasonal differences in mind when packing clothing. The weather there is pleasurable from November to January, with temperatures warm enough for people to flock Sydney’s popular Bondi Beach.
The U.S. dollar value is strong against the Australian and New Zealand dollars, so traveling there is much cheaper than Europe. As of June 24, the U.S. dollar is equal to $1.26 AUD and $1.56 NZD. Incredible deals are everywhere. For example, a10-inch pizza with a few toppings goes for about $4 AUD during lunchtime at Bimbos, located at 376 Brunswick St. in Melbourne. With their school ID card, students can get discounted admission to Art Gallery of New South Wales, an art museum in Sydney that includes collections of Australian and Asian art.
Breathtaking landscapes to photograph
The Great Ocean Road
Waves of scintillating water that glides over the sand, soothing breezes and deep cliffs rich in limestone can be found along the coast of the Great Ocean Road, located about 62 miles from Melbourne. Take a one-day tour of the Great Ocean Road with Go West! (www.gowest.com.au) to view these astonishing wonders. Be sure to pack extra batteries for your camera.
Fox Glacier
Take a guided hike and marvel the beauty of Fox Glacier in New Zealand. The hues of blue and white and the curves of the glacier are astonishing. Tours are offered by Fox Glacier Guiding (www.foxguides.co.nz)..
Arts and Entertainment
Sydney Opera House
There is no question that the most iconic symbol of Australia is the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Opera House, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, does not only offer a wealth of shows to enjoy, but also a tour of the house and its incredible design by Danish architect Jørn Utzon. Make reservations to see the shows and tour the building at www.sydneyoperahouse.com/ .
Auckland Museum
Koru, carved jade that symbolize growth, harmony and new beginnings; and Hei Tiki, animal-shaped woodcarvings that symbolize fertility and good luck, can both be found found at the Auckland Museum. This museum displays Maori art, clothing, jewelry and tools and a vast amount of literature on Maori culture. The museum also boasts a natural history collection of 1.5 million specimen accumulated over the past 150 years.
Hot spot to stay overnight
Flock Hill Lodge
Flock Hill Lodge, located on the Great Alpine Highway in South Island, is the place to witness the life of sheep and herders. Sheep are raised and shaved for their merino wool on location. The wool, mainly used to make clothing, is a major natural resources in New Zealand. In fact, sheep outnumber humans there. Sheep running across the field surrounded by stunning mountains also offer an exciting photographic opportunity at Flock Hill Lodge. Make reservations at www.flockhill.co.nz/.