Welcome to the incredible land down under (and its many, many neighbors)

Australia and New Zealand may shine the brightest, but several other fantastic destinations fall under the Oceania umbrella, too. Sprinkled like confetti over the South Pacific Ocean are faraway islands like Fiji, Guam and the Solomon Islands, each a tropical gem with their own unique culture.

Oceania is split into four regions with Australasia (which includes Australia and New Zealand) being the most popular to travel to. Adventurers and Middle Earth seekers flock to New Zealand, while Australia appeals to nature lovers, urban explorers and active travelers. Many travelers who visit eventually become expats, having come for the beaches and adventure but ultimately staying for the laid back lifestyle. With impressive scenery around every corner, it’s easy to see why.

Thousands of small islands make up Micronesia, the northwest region of Oceania, most of which are so far flung that they are rarely visited. Popular islands include Guam and the Marshall Islands. Melanesia is the southwestern region (north of Australia) and includes culturally-rich countries like New Guinea, Fiji and Vanuatu. Polynesia is the most remote of them all and holds some of the finest tropical beaches in the world. With its crystal clear waters and postcard-perfect palm trees, honeymooners and divers alike swoon over locales like Bora Bora, Tahiti and Samoa.

start Exploring:

New Zealand

when to visit

Australia

Winter is the prime time to visit as the weather is most pleasant. To avoid the crowds and higher rates, opt for April, May or September.

New Zealand

New Zealand is lovely year-round so it really depends on your preferred activities. Generally, summer (December to March), is the busiest time when the mountains are ripe for hiking and biking and you have a lower chance of encountering rain. September, October, April and May are good shoulder season options.

South Pacific Islands

It is toasty year round and it’s hard to pick a bad time to visit. April to November is considered to be high season. The other half of the year sees slightly more rain, but nothing consequential.

Average Costs

Flying to and from this part of the world is inevitably expensive. Hotels, food and activities is expensive. When in doubt, bet on it being expensive.

Budget | $50-$70 usd per day

This is based on staying in hostels (or a camper van that doubles as your home and transportation), cooking your own meals, and doing a select few activities.

Moderate | $80-$120 usd per day

This is based on staying in Airbnbs or cheap hotels, eating out for most meals, and doing tours and several activities.

Splurge | $150-$200 usd per day

This is based on being a “yes” traveler and staying in nice places, doing all the activities, renting a car, eating all the food and drinking the wine.