Canberra was devised in 1913 to become Australia's capital city, and as such has a highly structured and purposeful feel to it.

It is home to the seat of parliament, the Australian administration, Australia's foremost university and myriad cultural must-sees.

The city is divided by Lake Burley Griffin. To the north of the lake is the area known as Civic, where the commercial, shopping and recreational areas are, while to the south are the embassies, parliament and other governmental offices. Given its nature as a designed-from-scratch city, it is very easy to get around, roads are in good condition and many areas of the city are pedestrian-friendly.

Canberra enjoys the same summer heat as the rest of Australia but proximity to the mountains means cooler nights in summer and cold, dry winters.