3-Nights Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort, Gold Coast from $320

Australia's Gold Coast, a popular tourist playground stretching about 45 mi/72 km from Labrador and Southport south to Coolangatta in the southeastern corner of Queensland, has been a mecca for visitors from all corners of the world for many years. The strip of development strip continues on the New South Wales side of the border, where it morphs into Tweed Heads.

A long expanse of beaches, the promise of sunny days (nearly 300 per year) and a variety of theme parks and other attractions, combined with ease of access and an excellent choice of hotels and resorts, makes the Gold Coast a perfect place to relax and forget about the cares of the world.

The Gold Coast is Australia's most popular beachside destination, appealing to Australians from down south and an increasing number of international travelers who can now fly directly into the Gold Coast International Airport.

It takes on a Miami-like appearance with most tourist expectations met. Solitude is not one of them so if you want to get away from the crowds, you would be better advised to visit a secluded island on the Great Barrier Reef.