It’s Not Just The Weather That’s Warm In South Australia
- By Michael Shaw
- Published 6th July, 2011
- Travel
- Unrated
Michael Shaw
Mike grew up in Zimbabwe most of his life and then moved to New Zealand. He now has the travel bug instilled in him and loves visiting Australia.
View all articles by Michael ShawIt’s Not Just The Weather That’s Warm In South Australia
It’s Not Just The Weather That’s Warm In South Australia
South Australians are said to be some of the friendliest people in Australia. There is no doubting their good nature and warm welcome, and it’s easy to make friends, even in just one afternoon. And with all South Australia has to offer, it’s not hard to see why they are so cheerful!
Australia is a truly vast country, and even the state of South Australia is enormous, so the best way to get around is by car. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent cheap hotels to help keep travel costs down.
With so much to see and do, it’s hard to know where to go first. If in doubt, your best bet is the state capital, Adelaide. A vibrant city with wide, elegant boulevards, Adelaide has something for everyone. Perhaps not as cosmopolitan as Melbourne or Sydney, Adelaide has a relaxed appeal and if you know where to look, you can find a party going on.
No trip to Australia is complete without a visit to the 'Outback'. Not to be taken lightly, the Outback is a harsh but beautiful environment that offers a stark contrast to the bustle of city life. The ever-friendly locals will be happy to give you tips and advice about your adventure and it is wise to listen carefully to what they have to say. Although the Flinders Ranges are some of Australia’s most accessible Outback areas, getting lost is easily done. In such a huge expanse, the chances of running into anyone else are extremely slim, so you need to be careful.
If you’re more inclined to recline, then South Australia’s beaches are excellent. Wide and long sandy strips border deep blue oceans with nothing between you and the Antarctic. Although, it certainly doesn’t feel like it as the temperature is always warm to hot.
One thing that you have to do when you’re there is take the coast road to Melbourne. On the map it doesn’t look too far from Adelaide, but never underestimate the size of Australia. The drive takes at least twelve hours, so you’ll need to stop in one of the few towns along the way. Luckily, the drive is one of the best anywhere in the world and there's little chance you'll get bored. The Great Ocean Road makes up part of the journey, with views so spectacular you have to stop and get out of the car - do look for The Twelve Apostles. Arriving in Melbourne, you’ll discover a beautiful city with traditional architecture and very lively nightlife.
South Australia’s most famous export is undoubtedly wine. Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are just two of the many wine-growing areas in the state. For those partial to a tipple, a tour of the wineries is the perfect way to spend a day. Top it off with a great night’s sleep in one of the numerous campsites close by.
At every turn you’ll be greeted with smiles and the famous Australian good humour; both set the state apart and make for a truly fantastic trip.

