Travel blog

Many of Australia’s most famous animals could certainly be considered “quirky.” Their unique adaptations make them perfect for surviving on the isolated land mass, and the opportunity to see them in person is well worth the long flight.

The giant jumping kangaroo, the cantankerous Tasmanian devil, and the monstrous saltwater crocodile are just a few of the fascinating creatures to look for in the Land Down Under. Whether at the zoo or in the wild, keep your eyes peeled for these ten exotic animals on your Australian adventure.

New Zealanders—Kiwis for those in the know—are famous for speaking in their own unique dialect. Not convinced? Just listen to any local conversation. Fast and sometimes quite thickly accented, the regional speech is packed with Kiwi slang that often requires a translator.

Despite its relatively small size, and reputation as little sister to glamorous Sydney, Melbourne is a robust, dynamic place to visit—especially when you’re hungry. Known as the most European of Australia’s major cities, Melbourne is a cultural melting pot with a wide variety of delicious restaurants to try. Whether you’re looking for glitzy fine dining, down-to-earth Aussie specialties, or the best ethnic food you can find outside of the motherland itself, you’re sure to have some of the most flavorful meals of your life in Marvelous Melbourne.

Culturally robust, historically fascinating, generously dotted with lush green spaces, and surrounded by a ruggedly beautiful coastline, Sydney, Australia has earned its place at the very top of many travelers’ Bucket Lists.

Sydney is the capital of New South Wales, which was was originally established in 1788 by the English as a penal colony, providing a rough and tumble beginning to what is today one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations.

Modern Sydney has everything that travelers want: great dining and entertainment, excellent public transportation (definitely the best way to get around), gorgeous architecture, ample public gardens, and over 100 beaches.

The ideal time for Australia and New Zealand tours is during their summer months of January and February. The days are long and sunny with highs around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while the evenings are mild with temperatures in the 60s and 70s. Consistent weather means your packing list will be relatively straightforward. Here is a list of must-pack items for your summer land and cruise tour travels to New Zealand and Australia, whether you plan to stroll through the city, visit subtropical islands, or explore picturesque towns:

Those of us in the Western world are familiar with the richly flavored coffees of Columbia, the Andes, and other South American regions. But did you know that Australian coffee has a following too?

New Zealand is home to 3 million people and a whole lot of sheep. In fact, it’s estimated there are 10 sheep for every person, giving this tiny island country the highest sheep density in the world. Far from just part of the pastoral landscape, sheep are a vital part of the economy. They were first introduced by Captain Cook in 1773 when herds were used to feed local whalers. As a source of meat and wool, they were soon exported, and mutton became a preferred protein on London dinner tables.

Sheep aren’t the only animals you’ll discover in New Zealand. This lush landscape is also home to yellow-eyed penguins and the royal albatross, Hector’s dolphins and fur seals. It’s a rugged wilderness straight out of the Lord of the Rings. Take a cable car to see the surging waters of the Cook Strait or wander through a historic settlement in search of art and a slower pace of life. Enjoy the flavors of world-renowned vineyards or sail through a cluster of 150 undeveloped islands. It’s all here in this tranquil green landscape where sheep still heavily pepper the hillside.

You can experience New Zealand for yourself on the Highlights of Australia & New Zealand Cruise & Tour or the Discover Australia & New Zealand Cruise and Tour. These land and sea journeys take you to the other side of the world, where you’ll see the Sydney Opera House, the fjords of the Milford sound, and tiny penguins… perhaps even a wild wallaby! For more information on these itineraries, or to book a seat, call your travel professional or YMT Vacations at 1-888-756-9072.