The 2,000 km long Great Barrier Reef is 18 million years old and one of the world's natural wonders. Usually reached from the city of Cairns, it is home to more than 400 different types of coral. A carefully protected phenomenon, its parts live, breathe and die underwater, leaving behind skeletons as splendid shelters for marine life.

Known as Australia's Sunshine State, Queensland's beaches have been cultivated to encourage fun-in-the-sun. The Gold Coast includes Surfer's Paradise, where neon lights illuminate the streets and partying is almost ritualistic. The Sunshine Coast is more subdued, with towns like Noosa hosting the rich and famous on private holidays. Inland hinterlands culture vineyards and fruit farms where backpackers often find temporary employment. The hearty take on bush safaris through the tropical Cape York Peninsula, and, located deep in the outback, Birdsville is one of the continent's most remote cities. In contrast, the capital city of Brisbane attracts art lovers and offers several restaurants for dining al fresco, a simple and truly pleasurable Australian tradition.