Australia is both a country and a continent. While it is most famous for it's wilderness and stunning natural beauty, it is also one of the world's most developed and economically thriving countries. Perhaps one of the most famous areas in Australia is the "outback" but other national parks and the Great Barrier Reef all have much to offer adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers.

But Australia has far more to offer than just adventure sports and outdoor settings. There are countless cosmopolitan cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Beach lovers can take their pick as well, and foodies will find many international and local restaurants that receive rave reviews.

For many, Australia seems like a far off destination. It takes an entire day to fly to Australia from North America. It's in the southern hemisphere, so July is cold and Christmas is hot. It's a country that looks strikingly like any other westernized country, but it has animals and vegetation that are uniquely its own. It's these familiarities, yet sharp differences that make Australia a favorite travel destination for the young and old alike.

The days of budget travel to Australia are long gone. Not only is it an expensive plane flight from most of the world, but the cost of living has skyrocketed in the area. Simple meals, hostel style accommodation, and transportation all cost more than you would expect. Despite the increasing cost of travel in Australia, there are some tips you can follow to keep your budget in check. Probably the best cost saving tip is to cook your own meals. Restaurants are not cheap and you can easily save a lot of money by stocking up on groceries and preparing your own food. If you're renting a vehicle, find other travelers to split the cost. Most people will want to rent a car at some point during their trip to Australia. Coordinate with others and you'll easily cut the transportation costs in half.

The Great Barrier Reef: Perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers alike, this natural wonder is awe inspiring and beautiful. Many divers come to Australia specifically for the Great Barrier Reef, which is the largest continuous coral reef in the world.
Sydney Harbor: The most famous landmark in Sydney, this area is a beautiful natural harbor that is home to both the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge. It's probably the most photographed area in Sydney.
Ayers Rock: Uluru is of religious significance to the Aborigines. It's an amazing sight, particularly at sunrise and sunset and is one of the most popular natural landmarks in Australia. The easiest way to travel to Ayers Rock is by plane.

Meat Pie: A popular lunch dish in Australia is a simple, small meat filled pie. It's usually made from pastry and stuffed with minced meat and gravy. You can find any number of variations and some include cheese or mushrooms. Meat pies are available in cafe style restaurants and are often a cheap meal option.
Fish and Chips: Similar to their British counterpart, Australian fish and chips are made with battered and deep fried fish. They are often served with chips (french fries). This is a greasy but cheap meal option that is available in most towns and cities.
Barbeque: An Australian tradition, barbeque in this country includes a variety of meat types, anything from fish to steak. It's prepared outdoors on a grill and typically eaten outdoors as well. Many hostels will host a barbeque once a week which offers a great way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a filling meal.