Finding myself in your situation back in 2022 with two of my friends, our starting point was decided by the same criteria that many will have used to decide since; where is the best nightlife!? Melbourne of course! 

Though you can be certain that the nightlife will not disappoint, there is so much more to this sociable, culturally diverse and coffee-mad metropolis. If you are a sports-mad man like me, be sure to visit the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to catch an Aussie Rules game, just make sure you give yourself a few minutes to understand the rules! 

For those aspiring artists who are looking to immerse themselves into Melbourne culture, be sure to visit one of the many brilliant boutique art galleries and museums Melbourne has to offer. After a night partying or exploring Melbourne’s buzzing city centre and awesome dining spots, there really is no better way to start your morning than with a latte from one of Melbourne’s many creative cafés, which have rightly given the city a world-famous coffee scene to get you ready to do it all over again!

You know that road trip you have always fantasised about with your friends? Look no further than the Great Ocean Road. With jaw-dropping views hidden round bends and iconic landmarks littered throughout, this coastal road from Melbourne to Adelaide is a must-do for any backpacker itinerary. With scenery that you’ll struggle to believe is real, you’ll want to give yourself a few days to stop, stare and marvel. The lucky ones will see humpback whales swimming in the background as they gaze out across incredible natural landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Sound fun?  Then get the music ready and the snacks sorted and immerse yourself in one of the world’s most beautiful drives.

Once you feel you have experienced all Melbourne has to offer (you may never want to leave), Sydney lies in store. Those TikToks you’ve seen of the Sydney Opera House at sunset now become reality. Undoubtedly Australia’s hotspot for iconic landmarks and an Instagrammer’s dream, your bucket list will be a few items lighter after you have explored this versatile, sun-kissed utopia. 

Wow your family back home with your new-found surfing skills acquired after a trip to the buzzing Bondi Beach before securing that Instagram post you have always imagined on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take in unparalleled ocean scenery, picturesque parks and amazing vibes with your friends on the Bondi to Coogee Walk before rewarding yourself with a freshly made smoothie at the end!

Undoubtedly my highlight of my year down under, Byron Bay! If a place could encapsulate everything you have been dreaming of when planning your backpacking trip across the world, you are now in that place! The fact that two years later I still dream of my time there should say it all! Boasting beautiful breakfast spots, a sensational surfing scene and an amazing, laid-back, life-loving community, memories made here are those you will struggle to shake!

Should Byron Bay not whet the appetite enough for breathtaking beaches, a trip north up the coast and into Queensland is guaranteed to do the trick! For those looking to soak up the sun’s rays and kick back for a while, you are quite literally spoilt for choice. For a relaxed, sociable and buzzing beach town vibe, Noosa is your spot. If you are not already wowed by the turquoise waters that you have been splashing about in (you will be), then friendly Hastings Street will be sure to make this feel like your home away from home. With fro-yo spots providing a cool climax after a dreamy, slow-paced beach day and beautiful dining spots ensuring a perfect finale to an awesome day, this a destination you are guaranteed to tell all your friends back home about.

Looking for a brand-new lock-screen image or profile picture? Look no further than Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsundays. Many people you meet will tell you that this is the best beach in the world, but I will tell you that they’re only telling half the story. With scenery that you would not believe real if it wasn’t staring you in the face, the pictures you take here are those that you will cherish for a lifetime! 

Sleep overnight on a boat surrounded by your best friends and those you have met on your travels in your very own slice of paradise and make lifelong memories in one of the world’s most picturesque locations as you step on top of sand so white, you’ll barely believe you aren’t dreaming!

Now I know what you’re thinking: what about the adrenaline-packed and thrill-filled activities I have heard tales about from friends and family alike? Well, the fun is only just getting started! Venture further north into Queensland and you’ll reach Cairns, the bustling backpacker gateway to the glorious Great Barrier Reef. Live out your Finding Nemo fantasy as you submerse yourself into the crystal-clear waters on a scuba-diving experience in search of colourful coral. In a year packed with life-changing memories, this was undoubtedly my highlight. With marine life that will take your breath away, this truly is an experience that cannot be missed! 

Should a swim in the reef not get your heartbeat going, a skydive in Cairns or Mission Beach spent taking in the reef views from above certainly will. With the latter voted a top-ten place to skydive in the world, what are you waiting for?

While the east coast of Australia offers the iconic experiences that draw you in, it is the wonderful, white beaches of the west coast that will capture your heart. Want the beautiful beaches of Sydney and the marvellous museums and culture of Melbourne and can’t be in two places at once? Western Australia is your place! 

Swim with the wonderful whale sharks as you head north and take a ferry over to Rottnest Island to get a selfie with the adorable quokkas in a Western Australian rite of passage that you will never tire of reminiscing on.

Ever heard the term Australian Outback and wondered what it meant? Be sure to see for yourself with a trip to Uluru. While it is an astonishing natural landmark that will be etched into your memory from the moment you see it, it is also sacred to indigenous Australians and is an incredible eye-opening peek into the indigenous culture.

Still reading and wondering why you haven’t embarked on the most unforgettable year of your life yet? Me too! Whether you’re travelling solo or with lifelong friends, the land Down Under is waiting for you!