What makes Australia one of the top 10 tourism hot spots? Many whom have been there will tell you that the wildlife was the reason for their choice in destination. Travel Agencies are covered in posters or brochures calling out the Crocodile Dun Dee in all of us. With such a vast species of wildlife in Australia, the largest group called the marsupials claims most of land. This wondrous group of animals includes the wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils, as well as the beloved Kangaroos and Koalas.

Those young and young at heart always seem to enjoy the ever popular marsupials as they dine on their eucalyptus. These adorable koalas are nocturnal making their lazy day behavior that much more cuddly and cute to all who have the chance to see them. We often hear the term koala bears when in fact; they are not bears at all. Rather they are related to the kangaroo. These adorable creatures can to live up to 17 years if it weren’t for the fact that they are in danger of extinction. Yes, extinction. This is due to their natural habitat being destroyed all around them.

Like the beloved koala, kangaroos are just as amazing with 40 wonderfully different species. These kangaroos are enormous and are the world’s largest marsupial. Many kangaroos are taller than the average human. One amazing fact is that kangaroos are not able to walk backwards. Hence, they are often used as the symbol of Australia signifying moving forward and never moving back.

One of the rarest animals in Australia is the bandicoot. These insect and plants eating creatures are very small when in comparison to the great kangaroo. The Looney Toon cartoon character that we all loved and adored called the Tasmanian Devil, was responsible for the popularity the real animal was rewarded. Despite all the popularity, these animals live alone only coming out at night to feast.

Snakes cover much of the land in Australia with about 140 species. Thank goodness only ten percent are actually poisonous. If you’re looking for danger, you’ll find it in the thick Australian rainforest. This is you’ll find some of the deadliest and most poisons snakes in the entire world. If you would like a piece of danger from afar, be sure to listen out for the Dingo dog. Although a dog, you won’t hear it bark. You will however, hear howls from many miles away similar to that of a wolf. These wild dogs feast on our beloved kangaroos and wallabies.

Let’s not forget about the aquatic animals of Australia. You won’t find these animals anywhere else in the world thus adding to Australia’s uniqueness. Why are there so many amazing and exotic animals in Australia? This is greatly due the fact that Antarctica and Australia were once connected. The continent of Australia drifted away about 55 million years ago. Once Australia was out there on its own, nature took its course and an evolutionary process begun. This process alone brought about the vast variety and diverse number of animal species.

As much as Australia is known for all these wonderful and amazing species, many are in danger of extinction due to the increasingly degrading forest and rise in population. This is why so many advocates of animal welfare are working with the Australian government. Their goal is to hold fast and preserves these treasures. For, they are not only treasures to their native land of Australia. They are now considered to be national treasures as well.

Australia, the great continent and country, has a great number of outdoor adventures just waiting for you. This is an experience you can’t resist. Take the first step and excitement will follow. You can run, hike, dive or swim. Take your pick and enchant yourself of the adventure you never thought possible. The Australian outdoors’ are calling your name.

Australian outdoor fun means surfing, scuba diving, or simply lying on the sand with your suntan lotion and a good book. Australia has plenty of beaches for both tourists and locals alike. While there you might even water ski—big waves and clear warm water makes for the perfect environment. In Sydney, the famous Bondi beach challenges visitor to conquer its gorgeous stretch of shoreline. Surfing at Bondi can be an adventure for both veterans and beginners. Bells beach in Victoria is another must see for wave lovers and scuba divers. Underwater adventures are ones you will remember forever when you explore the colorful marine life and the world famous Australian reefs. If you like to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling is good way to enjoy life at sea.

Taking a trip to the country is a great way to experience Australia. You can hike your way all the way up the mountain ridges of Australian outback. Be impressed by strange and interesting rock formations, or better still be amazed by the famous Wave Rock at Farmstay Country. Delight in the colors and smells of blossoming wildflowers a long the way, or the sight of leaping kangaroos entertaining their young. A day in the Australian outback will be a day you hope will never end, and it will keep you coming back for more. Thankfully, the outback is bigger than you could possibly imagine.

For those who love the city life, Australia will not disappoint. There are plenty of shopping centers, department stores and giant malls. And if city culture is what you want, you might explore the many city libraries and national museums. After a long day on your feet in the city of your choice, a satisfying meal may be found in any of the countless restaurants that line the streets. Australians like their meals with wine and cheese, but you can leave the beret.

An Australian vacation will be an unforgettable journey which will create lifelong memories places seen, people met and activities enjoyed. All you have to do is book the trip. Australia is waiting.