Bucket list-worthy places in Australia

Picture this - a giant coat hanger and an opera house that looks like a stack of dishes gone wrong. But don't let my Aussie humor fool you.

The famous Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge are two of the reasons why Sydney has earned a spot on this list. But don't stop there folks. If you're feeling a bit adventurous, why not try climbing the Harbour Bridge? Or perhaps a ferry ride to Manly Beach for some fun in the sun? Sydney is best visited during the spring months (September to November) are your best bets.

If you're looking for a slice of wilderness without straying too far from Sydney, Blue Mountains National Park is your answer. With its rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and eucalyptus forests that stretch as far as the eye can see, it's like stepping into a postcard. The Blue Mountains National Park offers jaw-dropping views and numerous hiking trails. Don't forget to check out the Three Sisters rock formation while you're there.

While it's beautiful all year round, it's particularly breathtaking in spring (September to November) when the wildflowers are in bloom.

Down south, we've got Melbourne. If Sydney's the popular kid in school, Melbourne's the cool, artsy one. From street art to galleries, Melbourne is one giant canvas. It's got laneways filled with graffiti that you'd actually want to take a picture of and coffee that'll ruin all other coffee for you, and a sports culture that makes the Olympics look like a backyard cricket match.

And while Melbourne's weather is as unpredictable as a kangaroo on a trampoline, the months between March and May or September and November are usually safe bets.

With its relaxed vibe, beautiful beaches and charming wine region of Swan Valley, it's a place that can make even the most stressed-out person feel chilled out. Perth, on the other hand, is like that quiet kid who turned out to be really interesting once you got to know them. With its stunning beaches, booming food scene, and one of the largest inner-city parks in the world (take that, Central Park), it's definitely worth a visit.

The best time to drop by? Summer (December to February) if you're a sun-seeker, or spring (September to November) if you prefer milder weather.

Adelaide, it's like the shy sibling of Sydney and Melbourne but don't underestimate it. It's got a charm of its own with top-notch wine regions, festivals that'll keep your social calendar full, as I like to call it "the city that loves festivals", and beaches that are as pretty as a picture. Whether it's music, arts or food, there's always something happening here.

And if you're into wine (who isn't?), the nearby Barossa Valley is a must-visit. The best time to visit Adelaide is during autumn or spring when the weather is comfortable, and the city is alive with festivals.

Brisbane, or 'Brissie' as locals call it, is all about outdoor activities. From rock climbing at Kangaroo Point to cuddling koalas at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, it's hard to get bored here. Brisbane is best visited in autumn (March to May), when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor adventures.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - it's a bit of a mouthful but it's worth every syllable. This place is like Mother Nature's art gallery. With ancient rock formations that change colour with the sun and Aboriginal culture that dates back thousands of years, it's nothing short of spectacular. To avoid the scorching heat, plan your visit between May and September.

Cairns is your gateway to Mother Nature's underwater wonderland - the Great Barrier Reef. Whether you're diving, snorkeling or taking a scenic flight, it's an experience that will make you go "Wow!" It's best visited during winter (June to August) when the weather is dry and perfect for exploring the reef.

Fraser Island is like an episode of Survivor - only better. It's got dingoes, shipwrecks, rainforests, and lakes that'll make you question your eyesight. And the best part? You can experience all of this in a 4WD adventure that'll make regular road trips feel like a walk in the park. To enjoy Fraser Island in all its glory, visit during the cooler months between April and October.

Lastly, we've got Kakadu National Park - Australia's largest national park. It's like stepping into The Land Before Time - minus the dinosaurs, of course. With its ancient rock art, thundering waterfalls, and an array of wildlife that'll make you feel like you're on an episode of National Geographic, it's an adventure you won't forget in a hurry. The best time to visit? Dry season (May to October) when all areas of the park are accessible.

So there you have it - ten reasons why Australia should be on your travel bucket list. But don't take my word for it. Come down under and see for yourself!