If you’re a cricket enthusiast, you’re probably looking forward to the ICC Cricket World Cup, which begins next month in cricket crazy Australia (with some matches in New Zealand). If you’re lucky enough to be heading over for the duration of the cup, you will be visiting some prime locations, where team India is scheduled to show its talent, so don’t forget to sightsee! Here’s a little guide to accompany your fill of cricket matches.

VENUE #1: Adelaide, Australia

Your first stop on your World Cup journey this year is Adelaide, where India will be facing their nemesis, Pakistan at the Adelaide Oval, which is a tourist attraction in itself. There’s so much to see and do in this historical city that we’re only going to choose a few that we think are must-see places:

1. Dolphin sights

As a sports fan, you’ve probably got your adrenaline pumping, which makes this a great activity for you. Visit the shore of Glenelg, where you can enrol at a tour either just to sightsee or even swim up to the dolphins. Try and pick a place that offers a refund if the dolphins decide to take a day off!

2. Monarto zoo

Even if you’re not a big animal lover, you will really appreciate seeing the pandas, birds, reptiles and animals at Monarto, which is the largest open range zoo in Adelaide. It’s a little way off the regular city course so make sure you give yourself at least half a day to do this.

3.Barossa Valley

When you’re in Adelaide, you must sip on their famous wine. Head over to the wine tasting at Barossa Valley, one of the most famous wine regions in the country.

4. West Terrace

If you’re looking for a little piece of history, heading over to the West Terrace Cemetery is a great idea. Built way back in 1837, it’s a beautiful attraction with several interesting stories. Take a night tour for the best experience.

5. Port Adelaide

If you’re not satisfied with the history you learn at the cemetery, head over to Port Adelaide and spend some time walking through the museums there. From the Aviation Museum to the National Railway Museum and the Maritime Museum, there’s a lot to see.

VENUE #2: Melbourne, Australia

After soaking up a little of the Melbourne cricket ground during the matches that kick off with one against South Africa, prep yourself for these sights:

1. Shrine of Remembrance 

World War enthusiasts and casual tourists alike will love the war memorial in Melbourne. It’s a famous landmark, so be sure to head over to witness the ceremonies as well as the view from the bay.

2. Royal Botanic Gardens

While most cities have botanical gardens, those at Melbourne are definitely a must-see. There are over 50,000 types of plants and the entire area is beautiful, especially if you walk from end-to-end and soak in the atmosphere.

3. City Circle Tram

If you’re not spending too much time in Melbourne, this is a great way to see most of the city – and did we mention that it’s for free? It drives past the aquarium, Gaol, Federation Square and even tells you about some famous sights.

4. Lightning Ridge Opal Mines 

Did you know that opal was Australia’s national gemstone? Now that you do, it makes perfect sense to visit this attraction, where you can see beautiful opal jewellery and learn about the stone.

5. Olympic Parks

You can’t visit the sporting capital of Australia and not make a trip to the Melbourne and Olympic Parks. You can see the Olympic pool and witness more sporting events. The place is home to the Grand Prix, Moto GP, AFL Grand Final and several football, tennis and cycling events as well.

VENUE #3: Perth, Australia

Since you’re there for cricket, you’re probably now making your way over to Perth to watch India face the West Indies. When you’re there, do make time for the following:

1. Barrack Street Jetty

If you’re a fan of natural surroundings and want a little activity thrown in, visit this attraction. You can walk, climb (the Swan Bell Tower is a popular climbing spot) and eat some delicious Australian food at the restaurants around the riverfront.

2. Perth beaches

If all you want to do is catch your breath between all the sightseeing and cricket matches, you should head over to any of the beaches that dot Perth. From Scarborough and Leighton to Cottesloe, you’ve got to lie out on one of the beaches – but don’t forget to visit a nearby pub to get into a true beach spirit with the locals!

3. Penguin Island

How can you visit Perth and miss out on the penguins?! We love Penguin Island and we’re sure so will you. The nature reserve is filled with penguin colonies and is also a great place for adventure enthusiasts to indulge in some snorkelling.

4. Perth Concert Hall

If you’re lucky, you can catch a show at the Perth Concert Hall. But, even if you aren’t, a visit to this area is definitely a must; it’s a beautiful structure with a lot of history.

5. NIB Stadium

If you haven’t yet got your fill of sporting events, catch a local game of football at the NIB Stadium. It’s a gorgeous stadium so even if you aren’t the biggest football fan – it’s really worth the experience!

VENUE #4: Hamilton, New Zeland

After (or before) India’s match against Ireland at Seddon Park, take some time out to see these sights at Hamilton:

1. Great Barrier Reef

Since Hamilton is more of an island, one of the best things to do here is check out the reef. You can snorkel, dive or take a helicopter flight around the island to check it out.

2. Banjo Patterson

This is a yacht that you can take a cruise on, to really enjoy the Whitsundays water around the reef. It’s beautiful, and you can eat and drink in luxury on the yacht itself.

3. Parasailing

There’s a lot to do on this island, including parasailing which is a great way to spend a couple of hours in between matches.

4. Pool bar

Nothing is more relaxing than sipping on a drink at a bar – and what if the bar is in a pool? Visit the Hamilton Island pool bar to get a real taste of island life.

5. The Chapel

If you do want some dose of spectacular sights, the Chapel is the perfect place (if you catch an island wedding, you’re even luckier). There’re great views from the Chapel along with some peace and quiet.

VENUE #5: Auckland, New Zealand

After catching India and Zimbabwe at Eden Park, Auckland, give yourself ample time to see this gorgeous place. Here are some of our favourites:

1. SkyTower

Auckland is perfect for adrenaline junkies and the highest jump here – at 192 meters is really a great experience. It only takes a few seconds to hit the bottom but it’s an experience you will remember for a lifetime.

2. Rangitoto

You must visit this island, if only to see the youngest volcano and take in some scenic sights. You will have to get there by ferry during the day.

3. The Civic-theatre

You can’t miss a visit here. It’s one of the few amphitheatres left in the world, and is definitely worth checking out. The architecture is breathtaking and if you can catch a concert, you’ve had a trip worthy of it. Remember to get a tour that explains its history.

4. Viaduct Harbour

Don’t miss out on visiting this area, famous for its restaurants and bars. It’s also filled with yachts, sculptures, sights and sounds.

5. Stardome Observatory

Love looking at the stars? Visit this observatory to check out the shows that take place on most weekdays. They have a few days off in a week so call to check before traipsing over.

Nicole

A poet with a penchant for prose and the itch to travel, Nicole Reed is an assistant editor and features writer for a daily newspaper, struggling to find a way out of the concrete mess by dreaming of one day living and breathing off words in an idyllic country setting somewhere. Having been editor of her college magazine, written for a number of publications including Shamiana’s short film newsletter and as a current student of Literature from the University of London, Nicole sees writing like travel - an adventure – a journey to find her place, to define and redefine who she is over and over again and to live and learn through the process.

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