These experiences are increasingly being packaged into more personalized independent holiday itineraries rather than organized group travel.

Sydney and Melbourne remain popular among Chinese travelers. But they're also warming up to a few other scenic spots, including Cairns, the Great Barrier Reef and the Northern Territory.

Cairns is renowned for its relaxed, tropical climate and laid-back ambience. It boasts some of the best of Australia's tropics, with islands, rainforests and reefs.

Visitors can swim, snorkel, dive and sail at the Great Barrier Reef-a UNESCO World Heritage Site-and hike the forest.

They can also hop aboard the scenic railway to the tranquil, butterfly-filled village of Kuranda and cruise among colorful parrots, platypuses and freshwater crocodiles.