The Eight Remarkable States and Regions Of Australia

One of the most exotic travel destinations in the world is Australia, or more officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia. It is also known as the Land Down Under, separated from the rest of the world by the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It has one of the driest and least fertile soils, yet despite of this, it is considered a megadiverse country for its large collection of endemic species of plants and animals.

The continent is divided into six states and two major territories. The states being New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria while the two territories are the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The states and territories are self-governing although each is still subject to the certain powers of the Commonwealth as specified by the Constitution.

1. New South Wales - Located in the southeast of the country, New South Wales is the oldest and most populous metropolis. It has more than 780 reserves and national parks which range from lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, craggy bushes, awesome marine sites, and the incredible Australian outback as well as World Heritage sites.

2. South Australia - As the name implies, Southern Australia is found in the south central part and has some of the most arid areas of the country. If you are the food and wine enthusiast, then South Australia is your destination. Indulge in the gourmet specialties and seafood gastronomical delights and finish your meal with a bottle of Riesling in the Clare Valley or Shiraz from Barossa.

3. Western Australia - This is the largest Australian state, occupying the western third of the continent and covering an area of 2.5 million square kilometers. The region used to have a lush temperate forest and is one of the most diverse terrestrial habitats in the world. It is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, with at least 15 identified endemic species of birds and more than 9000 species of plant species.

4. Queensland - At the northeastern region of the continent lies the state of Queensland and was named in honor of Her Royal Highness Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. Aptly named as Australia’s Sunshine State, its climate is indeed full of sunshine for most of the year, perfect for basking in the spectacular beaches as well as exploring the surrounding sites and sceneries. These include the biggest sand island in the world, Fraser Island, and of course, the longest coral reef in the world, stretching an awesome 2.3 kilometers, the Great Barrier Reef.

5. Tasmania - Divided by 240 kilometers by the Bass Strait, Tasmania is an island with a unique culture and heritage. A little more than a third of the island is part of the Australian National Parks and World Heritage Sites. Unlike the mainland cities and destinations, your Tasmanian experience is relaxing with less crowded beaches, coastal towns, and historic villages.

6. Victoria - Although Victoria is the smallest mainland state, it is the most heavily populated and urbanized. The distinctive blend of modern innovation and the natural wonders offer tourists an unmatched experience. Pamper yourself to the great selection of cuisines, shop and enjoy the latest fashion and cultural extravaganza, or take part or be a spectator of the numerous major sporting events.

7. Northern Territory - It is a federal territory of Australia and one of the least populated regions of the world. However, it offers an unparalleled adventure to those who dare venture into this sprawling land of luxuriant wetlands, red deserts and extraordinary rock formations as well as a connection to Australia’s aboriginal culture.

8. Australian Capital Territory - Welcome to the country’s capital territory, the Australian Capital Territory or simply the ACT. It is the location of many of Australia’s important landmarks and attractions.

So you’d better go to the nearest Australian embassy and apply for a travel visa. Better yet, to save yourself the bother of paperwork, apply for an Electronic Travel Visa online.

Jo is a writer for ‘Australian Travel Visas Ltd’ (http://www.australiantravelvisas.co.uk), specialists in Australia tourist visas, Australia business visas and Australia working holiday visas. If you are going to take a trip and apply for an Australian tourist visa or you are uncertain which Australian travel visa is most appropriate for you then you ought to check out Australian Travel Visas Ltd.