Destination Singapore. A fine city for all the right reasons.

You may have heard the saying ??Singapore is a fine city.?? You get fined for this, fined for that?? ... - Matthew Lawson

21 Lanzarote Attractions - Timanfaya

Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote - A great day out - John Plumb

Preparing for Your African Safari

There are numerous preparations you should make before you leave for your African safari vacation. I ... - Eyes On Africa

Good Things to Know About Singapore

Singapore is the perfect destination for tourists in search of relaxation, peace and quiet. - Streetdirectory.com

Things To Do While Visiting Dublin

There is plenty to do in Dublin if you are on vacation or sightseeing. - Niall Cinneide

Main Page » Tour & Travel » Vacation Places

An Overview of Australia for Travelers

Australia is a very diverse country geographically and a hot spot for tourism. If you are thinking about heading down under, here is some information on Australia.

An Overview of Australia for Travelers

Australia is its own continent, the only country in the world that can say as much. It covers roughly 3 million square miles and is about the size of the continental United States. The capital is Canberra, but Sydney is the biggest city with 4.2 million people. The climate of Australia is extremely dry inland with more temperate conditions along the coast. The population centers are primarily along the coast due to soaring temperatures inland.

Australia was originally inhabited by Aboriginal tribes. In 1770, Captain Cook claimed the land for Great Britain. In 1788, the first colony was established in New South Wales. Most of the colonists were convicted criminals from Great Britain. Gold was discovered soon thereafter and Australia became a destination for immigrants seeking fortune and a new start in life.

On the far northern coast, Australia is home to one of the amazing sites in the world. The great barrier reef is a water enthusiasts dream. With incredible plant life, the reef is world renowned as a diver's paradise. A watchful eye is advised given the presence of the Great White Shark in the area.

Australia is a Commonwealth. The federal powers are mapped somewhat after those in the United States, but no bill of rights exists. Unlike the U.S., the individual territories retain significant authority over their own affairs.

People in Australia are called 'Australians.' The country has a population of just over 20 million, and the population is growing at a rate of 1.1 percent a year. Australians ethnicity is 92 percent European, 6 percent Asian and 2 percent Aboriginal. No religion dominates, but 27 percent of Australians considered themselves Roman Catholics. Life expectancy for males is 78 years while females live to 83 on average. Literacy rates are a surprisingly low 85 percent.

Australia was often considered the forgotten country. Long distance transportation changed that designation. Now it is one of the hottest tourist destinations year in and year out.

Author: Richard Monk

Author Bio:

Richard Monk is with FactsMonk.com - a site with facts about everything.

This article can be searched using: An Overview of Australia for Travelers, Tour & Travel, Vacation Places

Bahamas Vacation: Playground Of The Rich & Famous

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia: Rich in History and Beauty

Mexican Steet Walking

Island of Majorca

An American Journey: Disasters On Vacation

Discovering Deluxe Martinique Vacation Destinations

Get the Taos Experience with a Full July of Visitor Activities

Lake Como, Italy - My View Of The Lake

Caveat Emptor: Let the Renter Beware

Awesome Ways to Get Outdoors!



Tour & Travel

Self Healing

Fashion & Relationships

Realty & Property

Culture & Art

Automobiles

Fitness & Health

Online & Indoor Games

Software & Networking

Recreation & Entertainment

Shopping Online

Healthcare & Medicine

Careers & Employment

Sports

Business & Commerce

Events & News

Children

Finance & Investment

Government & Politics

Eating & Drinking

Garden & Home

Education & Reference

Science & Research

Society & Communities

Main Page -> Privacy Policy -> Terms & Conditions

An Overview of Australia for Travelers

Related Articles