The Great Barrier Reef is world’s largest coral reef. Getty Images Fiji Airways In a major win for globetrotters, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is now easier to reach than ever. As of April 10, Fiji Airways has launched a new direct route from Nadi, Fiji to Cairns in Queensland, Australia, positioning Cairns as a new international gateway to Australia and shaving nearly three hours off typical travel time from North America. Cairns is known as the “gateway to the Great Barrier Reef” due to its proximity to the Coral Sea. Fiji Airways shortened travel time to the Great Barrier Reef. Getty Images For travelers departing from Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), or Vancouver (YVR), the new route offers a seamless South Pacific connection. Instead of transiting through busier hubs like Sydney or Brisbane, passengers can now island-hop via Nadi and arrive directly in the heart of Tropical North Queensland. The new service operates three times weekly, year-round, offering consistent access to one of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. And with this launch, a dream itinerary becomes reality. Lounge on Fiji’s idyllic beaches before diving into the coral kingdoms of the Great Barrier Reef, all in a single, streamlined trip. The Great Barrier Reef can be seen from space. AFP via Getty Images Great Barrier Reef One of Australia’s most remarkable natural gifts, the Great Barrier Reef is blessed with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest coral reef. Comprised of over 3,000 individual reef systems and coral cays and literally hundreds of picturesque tropical islands with some of the worlds most beautiful sun-soaked, golden beaches, the Great Barrier Reef has become one of the worlds most sought after tourist destinations. The marine park stretches over 3000km (1800 miles) almost parallel to the Queensland coast, from near the southern coastal town of Bundaberg, the central reef, and up past the northern tip of Cape York. It’s so big it is visible from space. A closer encounter with the Great Barrier Reef’s impressive coral gardens reveals many astounding underwater attractions including the world’s largest collection of corals (in fact, more than 400 different kinds of coral), coral sponges, molluscs, rays, dolphins, over 1500 species of tropical fish, more than 200 types of birds, around 20 types of reptiles including sea turtles and giant clams over 120 years old. a World Heritage Site, the Great Barrier Reef is important for its immense biodiversity, economic value and cultural significance. Scuba divers from around the world flock to the Reef. Getty Images Visitors to the Great Barrier Reef can enjoy many experiences including snorkelling, scuba diving, aircraft or helicopter tours, bare boats (self-sail), glass-bottomed boat viewing, semi-submersibles and educational trips, cruise ship tours, whale watching and swimming with dolphins. One of the seven wonders of the natural world, it is larger than the Great Wall of China. Great Barrier Reef has over 100 islands, from unique and exotic islands to the Whitsundays and the remarkable Northern Islands. Cairns is the perfect destination from which to explore the many wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. The unspoiled islands and beaches, spectacular wildlife and the pristine scenery of the surrounding tropical rainforests are all accessible from Cairns. Cairns has many great hotels and resorts to suit any budget. The Daintree Rainforest is the oldest rainforest in the world. Getty Images Daintree Rainforest Beyond the reef, Cairns is a vibrant base for exploring the Daintree Rainforest, engaging in Indigenous cultural experiences, and accessing luxury island escapes across the Coral Sea. The Daintree Rainforest, located in Tropical North Queensland, Australia is over 135 million years old, making it the oldest rainforest in the world. The largest rainforest in Australia, the Daintree Rainforest is over 1,200 square kilometers and home to many animal and plant species not found anywhere else in the world. The Daintree Rainforest is a popular day trip destination from Cairns and Port Douglas. Visit Mossman gorge, experience a croc cruise on the Daintree River, cross the river on the Ferry and travel to Cape Tribulation. The Daintree Rainforest is a popular day trip from Cairns. Getty Images With the Fiji Airways new flight path, North Americans are now just one stop away from two South Pacific icons and an entirely new way to experience Australia. ForbesExperience The Elation Of Southern Hemisphere Skiing At Valle NevadoBy Roger SandsForbesUpscale Accommodations Await Discerning Travelers In Los CabosBy Roger Sands Follow me on LinkedIn. Editorial StandardsForbes Accolades