Oceania
There are a total of 14 countries that are within Oceania. These 14 countries include Australia, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand, Fiji, the Solomon Islands, Federated States Of Micronesia, Vanuatu, Samoa, Kiribati, Tonga, the Marshall Islands, Palau, Tuvalu, and Nauru.
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Oceania then, in its most restricted meaning, includes more than 10,000 islands, with a total land area (excluding Australia, but including Papua New Guinea and New Zealand) of approximately 317,700 square miles (822,800 square km).
Australia and New Zealand
A flight from Calgary to Australia or New Zealand will range anywhere from 17 to 23 hours long, including two or more stops along the way.
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Australia's climate varies greatly throughout the eight states and territories; there are four seasons across most of the country and a wet and dry season in the tropical north.
Australia's seasons are at opposite times to those in the northern hemisphere. December to February is summer; March to May is autumn; June to August is winter; and September to November is spring.
Sandra rafting down the Daintree River in Australia
Aerial View of the Great Barrier Reef, taken by Sandra
I toured Australia in the spring of 2024 and a highlight for me was snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. I toured the Queensland region of the country, which includes diverse areas such as the reef, rainforest, vibrant cities, and beautiful mountains and coastline.
Breathtaking Islands
There are 10,000 islands that make up Oceania, and have a combined population of approximately 690,000 (2020 Census). The top 5 most populated islands in the region of Polynesia are French Polynesia, Samoa, Tonga, American Samoa and Cook Islands.
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If a long flight worries you, there are wonderful cruise options from Vancouver to Melbourne costing slightly more than a flight. Wood Travel would love to send you to these fabulous islands!