When it comes to iconic Australian cities, Sydney's Opera House and Melbourne's bustling laneways often steal the international spotlight. However, a recent survey has turned the tables, revealing that Perth and Brisbane are the new darlings of global travelers, leaving Sydney to trail at a respectable but distant 15th place.


The survey, conducted by Flight Centre, gathered insights from over 170,000 customer responses in the past year. Travelers were asked to rate their likelihood of recommending their recent travel destinations as must-visit places. The results were eye-opening, with Perth and Brisbane emerging as the top two cities in the world to visit, according to these global wanderers.


Perth, known for its laid-back vibe and sun-soaked beaches, achieved a remarkable satisfaction rating of 96 percent. Not far behind, Brisbane, with its vibrant arts scene and proximity to stunning natural wonders, secured a 94 percent approval rating, tying with the adventure capital of the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown, New Zealand.


Australia's overall charm was undeniable, with the country ranking in the top three most loved destinations, boasting a 92 percent rating. This placed it just behind the idyllic Cook Islands and the culturally rich Portugal.

Andrew Stark, Flight Centre's global managing director, shared his insights on the findings. 'The survey results are a testament to Australia's incredible tourism industry and the unique experiences our country offers,' he said. 'While Sydney and Melbourne are often the go-to cities for many international visitors, it's Brisbane and Perth that have truly captured their hearts.'

Melbourne still held its own, with 91 percent of people willing to recommend it after a visit, and Sydney, despite its 15th place, had an 89 percent recommendation rate. However, Perth's near-perfect score and Brisbane's strong showing suggest that travelers are seeking something beyond the usual tourist trail.


'Even iconic cities like Paris, New York, and Tokyo didn't measure up to Perth and Brisbane in this survey,' Stark added, highlighting the global appeal of these Australian cities.

New Zealand also shone brightly, with Queenstown and Christchurch securing spots in the top 10 cities list. As for the highest-rated countries, Portugal's historic charm and the Cook Islands' pristine beaches and friendly locals were hard to beat.

Steph Underwood, acting managing director of Tourism WA, expressed her delight at seeing Perth top the list. 'Western Australia offers a unique mix of city life, beautiful beaches, and extraordinary natural landscapes,' she said. With over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually, Perth holds the title of Australia's sunniest capital city, adding to its allure for visitors seeking warmth and light.


Underwood's invitation to travelers is clear: 'For those who haven't yet discovered our dreamlike state, we encourage them to visit soon.' With such high praise from global travelers, it's clear that Perth and Brisbane are not just Australian treasures but world-class destinations in their own right.
So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, have you had the pleasure of visiting Perth or Brisbane recently? Or perhaps you're a proud resident of one of these top-rated cities? Share your experiences and thoughts on what makes these places so special. And for those who've yet to explore these Australian gems, maybe it's time to consider a trip to see what all the fuss is about. Let us know in the comments below – we love hearing from you!