When American travel blogger Gracie Cheng landed in Australia, she expected magic — golden beaches, vibrant cities, and adventure. But after two weeks, her honest verdict stunned her followers: “It was just… bland.”

Having visited 36 countries, Cheng spent May exploring Melbourne, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, and Sydney. Yet, she said none truly stood out. “If I’m being honest, the cities weren’t that interesting. Maybe it was my itinerary — but the beaches and city life felt mediocre.”

She admitted the distance and travel time made Australia “a hassle,” noting it took over 24 hours just to arrive. Still, there were bright spots — she praised the food scene, describing every meal as “impressively good,” and said the trip was easier thanks to no language barrier.

Her video quickly divided the internet. Some defended Australia fiercely — “Mediocre beaches? Show me a place with better surf!” — while others quietly agreed that Aussie cities can feel slow compared to global hubs.

In the end, Cheng softened her tone. “It wouldn’t be fair to judge the whole country. I know there’s so much I missed,” she said, asking fans for recommendations for a second visit.

Sometimes, even the most seasoned travelers discover that beauty depends on where — and how — you look.