Today is Australia Day! As people revel in the celebrations, Hugo lists 5 reasons why it’s awesome to be in Australia.

1. The Sydney Opera House

It’s hard to go past the world-famous Opera House, which took more than 14 years to construct. One of the 20th century’s most distinctive buildings, it serves as an icon for a city, a country and an entire continent! (Photo: Ng Kok Kai)

2. You can send mail from the Great Barrier Reef.

That’s right, there’s a post box somewhere over the longest reef in the world! You can send a postcard which will be postmarked with the world’s only Great Barrier Reef stamp – makes for a really special souvenir.

3. Most livable country in the world

According to The Economist, Melbourne (3rd), Sydney (7th), Perth (8th) and Adelaide (9th) are among the top 10 most livable cities in the world. No other country has as many of its cities listed! (Photo: chylle)

4. The mystique of Uluru

Uluru (or Ayers Rock) is the most enchanting at sunrise or sunset, times when you can witness the rock formation change from orange to a fiery red. In caves and shelters around the area, one can find well preserved ancient Aboriginal paintings – portals to Australia’s past. (Photo: Mark Laricchia/Corbis)

5. Beaches!

No part of Australia is more than 1000km from the ocean and a beach, for good reason too – some of the best beaches in the world are right here! From the world-famous Bondi to the Gold Coast to Surfer’s Point, there’s a beach for everyone, everywhere.

What do you love most about Australia?