Although winter has been mild so far this year, we know the snow and cold are coming. And while February's blizzards and snow shoveling seem like a ways off, it's a good idea to plan your winter break now, to have something warm to look forward to!

If you're looking for both warmth and diversity, heading to Australia is pure genius. It's a trip that will astound you - and create memories that will last a lifetime. You can visit the Outback, or the Great Barrier Reef, or explore any of these five spectacular areas of the country - it all depends on what you want to do with your holiday.

Here are my top 5 things to do in Australia:

1. Visit Sydney. You can do so much in this exciting, vibrant town, including a plethora of museums, the iconic Sydney Opera House, the national Maritime Museum, Sydney Bridge (did you know you could climb it?!), art galleries, shopping, the Sydney Aquarium, and more. If you'd like a little beach time, the famous Bondi Beach is your destination.

2. Visit Melbourne. It's the sporting capital of Australia (Australian Open!). But there's also plenty of shopping in beautiful arcades, plenty of aboriginal and global art, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and Philip Island (penguins!).

The French Renaissance Flinders Street Station circa 1910, and Federation Square

3. Visit Ayers Rock. Known by its aboriginal name, Uluru, Ayers Rock is located in the southern part of the Northern Territory in a national Park. Ayers Rock rises majestically from the desert landscape, and is one of the most beautiful natural features in the world. Uluru is also a World Heritage Site - make sure to view the aboriginal rock paintings in the area.

4. Visit Perth. Perth is justly named one of the most beautiful cities in Australia. There are more than a dozen white sand beaches, both clean and uncrowded. You can find plenty of gourmet restaurants and places to shop. If you like the animal kingdom, visit the Aquarium or the Perth Zoo. If you're more into art, well, there's plenty of art (and science) museums around. Take a short trip out of the city to see the numerous vineyards (and sample some wine!).

5. Visit the Gold Coast. Ah, you knew this was coming.  Surfer's Paradise! You've got sandy beaches, wildlife parks, shopping, theme parks (Sea World, Dream World, Warner Bros Movie World), water parks, and nature (McPherson Range, and Lamington National Park). But if you just want to soak in the sun and swim (or surf), this is the place for you.

Where will you go first, when you visit Australia?