For a royal trip around the world, these current Commonwealth nations provide tourists with unique insight
into their history, culture and social trends.
With Canada and the United Kingdom comprising two of the 16 Commonwealth realms the Queen oversees, the royal
histories of the following six countries are sometimes overlooked. Once part of the British Empire, these
countries have since broken away and now act as their own separate entities.
Australia
It was 1926 when the official change of power took place and the governor general became solely the
representative of the Sovereign, instead of the United Kingdom’s government as well. Today, Australia is one
of the leading tourist attractions in the world. With its vivid wildlife, adventure, arts and culture, the
country exhibits a diversity of sightseeing and historical landmarks. With hopes of hosting the Commonwealth
Games in 2018, Australia continues to prove that it can hold its own on the world stage.
Culture — Australia’s arts and culture scene provides visitors with an array of social
activities. Visit the Sydney Opera House in one of the country’s most popular cities, or check out the
National Gallery of Australia in Canberra, the country’s capital. In the fast-paced region of Melbourne, dive
into its glamorous nightlife. Meanwhile, the Australian Zoo in Queensland provides a closer look at iconic
Australian wildlife, such as the koala bear, kangaroo and crocodile.
Flavours — Discover where the phrase “cooking on the ‘barbie’” comes from and indulge in
some of the country’s delectable dishes, including some classic barbecue-grilled foods, the meat pie or
lamingtons, a sweet sponge cake. Some visitors may even decide to take a walk on the wild side and give
kangaroo or crocodile meat a try!
Style — Aside from making its footprint on the North American style scene with the Ugg-style
boot made of sheepskin, the country is known for its laid-back and casual style. The country hosts a
semi-annual Australian Fashion Week to showcase seasonal collections from Australian as well as Asia-Pacific
designers. Australian style is modern, adopting many trends from the North American style of dress. However,
unlike Canada, the country’s climate keeps heavier, layered clothing to a minimum.
Wellbeing — Australian health and wellness is a major trend, with many mineral springs and
spas found in Victoria, the country’s second most populated state.
New Zealand
As part of the Constitution Act in 1986, the Queen became the head of state of New Zealand, and the governor
general (as appointed by the Queen) became her representative. Today, the island country remains heavily
dependent on economic trade, with exports of fish, lamb and wool comprising much of the country’s
revenue-producing efforts. As for its status as a tourist getaway, New Zealand is famous for its breathtaking
landscapes, ranging from forests and mountains to glaciers.
Culture — To learn about New Zealand’s cultural heritage, a visit to some of the country’s
many art museums and galleries can educate visitors about the ancient history of the Maori, the indigenous
population descended from Polynesian explorers.
Flavours — Benefiting from its array of seasonal and local ingredients, New Zealand cuisine
is heavily enriched by the country’s strong historical background. With Maori influences, pork,
dumplings and kumara (sweet potatoes) are some foods that remain favourites in the country today. However,
over the years, New Zealand has modernized its gastronomic fare by adopting trends from American, Asian and
Indian cuisine. The country has even been making waves in the winemaking business, with 10 major
wine-producing regions. Notably, New Zealand produces a Sauvignon Blanc wine that ranks highly amongst wine
critics, and has rivalled many of the best wine producers in the world.
Style — New Zealand’s style of dress has modernized over the years, with a contemporary look
that mirrors the North American and European fashion trends. New Zealand Fashion Week is held annually in
Auckland to showcase the season’s upcoming trends and remains a growing tourist event.
Wellbeing — In addition to the variety of spas and wellness centres, medical tourism is a
field that the country has become known for worldwide. Since New Zealand is a predominantly English-speaking
country, the appeal of medical tourism for North Americans is strong, combined with the lower costs of the
medical procedures available. Add to that the availability of direct flights and luxury accommodations, and
New Zealand continues to build up a solid reputation for medical tourism.
Belize
Since 1981, Belize has been independent from the British Empire as a Commonwealth realm. The Queen remains
the head of state but, as in other Commonwealth nations, the country elects its own prime minister. Today,
the Central American country is still part of what is known as the British West Indies. Belize is a tourist
attraction renowned for providing a tranquil escape and is popular for honeymoons and other romantic
getaways.
Culture — Belize is famous for its tropical rainforests and world-famous coral reefs. With
the country’s emphasis on ecology, the islands’ nature and wildlife are major contributors to the country’s
tourism industry.
Flavours — In a fusion of Spanish and Caribbean cooking styles, Belizean cuisine includes
foods such as flour tortillas, tamales, panades and cassava bread.
Style — Although a strict dress code is not enforced for tourists, it is recommended that
visitors wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing due to the sub-tropical climate. Dresses for women and
loose T-shirts for men are popular choices, as well as a hat with a brim to shield the sun’s rays.
Wellbeing — As a popular vacation destination, Belize has a variety of natural spas and
health and wellness centres to allow visitors to indulge in rest and relaxation. Yoga retreats are often
frequented by travellers who may be looking for some inner peace in addition to improving their overall
health.
Papua New Guinea
This South Pacific country gained its independence from Australia in 1975 and was admitted to membership in
the United Nations the same year. Today Papua New Guinea maintains close ties with the Land Down Under and
remains a realm of Queen Elizabeth II. Located just north of Australia, the country has glorious mountain
arcs that spread from Asia through Indonesia and onwards into the South Pacific. Papua New Guinea’s four
regions consist of 19 provinces and the National Capital District, each with their own unique character.
Culture — The country’s native culture inspires many of Papua New Guinea’s tourist
attractions. Traditional tribal costumes are worn during some of the country’s musical activities, such as
singing and dancing. Festivals are held sporadically from May to November, allowing visitors to get a glimpse
of the country’s illustrious historical background. For a more citizenry approach to touring the country,
Papua New Guinea’s various markets allow visitors the experience of roaming through stalls for local finds in
foods, arts and crafts.
Flavours — The foods of Papua New Guinea reflect the country’s tropical location. Coconuts,
bananas, papayas and other fruits are frequently used in the country’s cuisine. Staple-food ingredients
include rice, kau kau and sago, which are often served with meat such as chicken, pork or seafood. A
traditional Papua New Guinean dish is mumu, which is a pork dish served with potatoes, rice and
vegetables.
Motion — The tropical climate in Papua New Guinea makes outdoor activities easily
accessible. Tourists can dive into the waters to take part in surfing, diving, kayaking or snorkelling, to
name a few. The national pride in these outdoor activities has been demonstrated by the country’s active
participation in the Commonwealth Games.
Green — The Green Islands comprise a small set of islands in Papua New Guinea, with Nissan
being the largest of the group. This elliptically shaped island, which surrounds a stunning lagoon about 13
kilometres long and five kilometres wide, is host to a thick jungle and numerous coconut plantations.
Grenada
A Crown Colony since 1877, Grenada became an associate state within the British Commonwealth in 1967, before
gaining independence in 1974. Despite a long history of British rule, the island possesses a strong French
heritage (both colonial and revolutionary), which is evident in its place names, buildings and predominance
of Catholicism. Grenada is now considered one of the world’s great gateways to an idyllic escape, with its
tropical climate and adventurous recreation.
Culture — Grenada’s physical beauty is further enhanced by its rich history and colourful
heritage. Festivals, fairs and markets are a key part of Grenadian life. Centuries-old plantations and
distilleries are said to still be run using traditional methods, ensuring quality is maintained.
Flavours — It comes as little surprise that Grenada is referred to as “the spice of the
Caribbean,” with its vast sources of nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cinnamon and cocoa. Producing approximately
one-third of the world’s nutmeg, one may also find the shape of the kernel donning the island’s flag.
Green — Great care has been taken to protect the island’s stunning natural environment,
underscored by the unveiling of several national parks. Protection of the rainforest and coral reefs is also
of high priority. The country’s national bird, the Grenada Dove, is in critical risk of becoming
endangered.
Motion — An adventure enthusiast’s haven awaits upon arrival to Grenada. Hiking, diving and
swimming in idyllic ocean waters are just a few options to ignite that adrenaline rush. One such example is
the dive site at Moliniere Bay, which also doubles as a natural art gallery. Under the water, coral and
statues combine, creating masterpieces. Or join the sea turtles at Anse La Roche, a hidden beach on
Carriacou. In the Grand Etang rainforest, hike amid the wildlife and vast landscape underneath towering
mahogany trees.
The Bahamas
Regaining its independence as a self-governing member of the Commonwealth in 1973, the Bahamas have a
constitutional monarchy, with the Queen possessing a ceremonial and symbolic role in the country. Stretching
off the east coast of Florida, the Bahamas are rightly described as a close-to-home paradise. Like many other
Commonwealth nations, the Bahamas (consisting of 29 islands) is brimming with rich history and culture.
Culture — The islands have a strong arts and crafts background, with local citizens
mastering the art of handicrafts. With the use of straw and other natural materials, local shops sell these
goods to visitors who are looking to take a piece of the islands home with them.
Flavours — The style of cuisine in the Bahamas is diverse, with some foods unique to the
islands. Local seafood favourites include conch, a large mollusk that is similar to an oyster. Boiled fish
and grits make up a popular breakfast meal.
Motion — Providing visitors with access to some of the world’s most renowned beaches, there
are various activities in and out of the water that tourists can delve into. Recreational sailing, fishing,
scuba diving and other aquatic sports are just some of the activities that can be enjoyed on the ocean
waters.
Green — Bahamians have maintained a strong sense of protecting and preserving their
environment, which is evident by the upkeeping of 12 exceptional, nationally funded parks. Existing on
several different islands, each park fosters a wide range of habitats, from hardwood forests and sand dunes
to dense mangrove flats.
Photo Credits
Australia Photo by Chris Kapa
New Zealand Photo by Ian Trafford
Belize Photo by Tony Rath Photography
Papua New Guinea (none, istock)
Grenada Photo courtesy Grenada Board of Tourism
The Bahamas Photo courtesy The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism •
