Escape Down Under

Sydney, New South Wales

Sydney is Australia's most popular tourist hotspot, luring
millions of holidaymakers every year with the promise of sun, sand,
merry-making and culture. It is slick and smart, the streets are
clean, the parks sublime, the water in the huge harbour bright
blue, and the landmark buildings breathtaking. Sydney's population
is approaching five million, but it is easy to leave the frenetic
urban pace behind with just a simple ferry ride to the North Shore
for a bush walk, or a stroll along the harbour beaches, or any one
of a number of daytrips to explore the 'real' Australia on the
city's doorstep.

Just like its characteristic white-sailed Opera House, Sydney
seems to cruise effortlessly through nights and days filled with
myriad entertainment opportunities, sophisticated shopping,
memorable museums, and strings of beautiful beaches. It can be
exhausting to take it all in, even though the tourist precinct
where most of the interesting attractions are to be found is
concentrated in quite a small area around the downtown waterfront
and harbour.

The fact that Sydney is a thriving seaport and industrial city
has been cleverly concealed behind attractive pleasure and leisure
grounds and residential suburbs, making full use of the scenic,
watery geographical location. The harbour area is dominated by the
span of one of the world's largest arched bridges, backed by
towering skyscrapers.

Another plus for visitors is that, compared to most big cities,
Sydney offers excellent reasonably priced food, accommodation and
public transport. The city also has an efficient suburban rail
network, with its hub at Circular Quay in the city centre, while
full use is made of the waterways with ferries and passenger jet
boats plying to and from various points.

To the north of Sydney is the Pacific Coastal route, which
passes beautiful coastal scenery, laid back seaside communities
like Byron Bay, and excellent surf, with nearly 249 miles (400km)
of beaches to explore. Whale watching is popular in season and the
region is also dotted with numerous national parks and nature
reserves that offer plenty of hiking trails and kayaking in the
Myall Lakes. The Waterfall Way, which winds up to the New England
Tablelands, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, taking
in the vineyards of the famed Hunter Valley. To the south of Sydney
is Australia's only alpine habitat in the Snowy Mountains, where
winter skiing is the main attraction. In summer, the mountains
become a playground for whitewater rafters, fishermen, kayakers and
hikers, making Sydney a great travel hub.

Cruising the Tasman Sea

Brisbane, Queensland

Australia's third largest city has a relaxed, easy-going
ambience that is well suited to its moniker: 'The City of Sundays'.
As the capital of the state of Queensland, however, it has a
serious side too, and despite it's laid-back aura it is filled with
the cosmopolitan hustle and bustle of a major urban hub. Brisbane
has several interesting districts, a good selection of street
cafes, a wonderful riverside park, a very full cultural calendar,
and a vibrant nightlife. Culture vultures should head for the South
Bank, home to the Queensland Museum with its interactive displays;
the Queensland Art Gallery with its magnificent collection; and the
Performing Arts Centre, where international theatre companies and
performing artists take to the stage.

There is plenty to keep shopaholics busy too, with the designer
boutiques and department stores of Queens Street Mall ready to
welcome visitors and numerous bustling markets dotted around the
city. Sport fanatics, as always the case in Australia, are well
catered for thanks to the Gabba sports ground and Suncorp Stadium,
where the Wallabies often take on the world at rugby. The city is
generally easy to explore on foot, and provides the perfect base
from which to make daytrips to popular surrounding areas.

Situated on Australia's fabled Gold Coast, a holiday in Brisbane
means fun in the sun, providing easy access to Australia's east
coast resorts and theme parks on the Pacific Motorway. A
sub-tropical climate ensures that a holiday in Brisbane will be a
sunny experience no matter what time of year is chosen. Most of the
rain falls in summer, but not enough to deter holidaymakers. Most
of those who travel to Brisbane come for leisure and pleasure. It
is an ideal destination for a family holiday, a surfing holiday, or
as a good base for anyone wanting to visit the nearby National
Parks.

Willis Island, Queensland

While modern-day Australia might have started life as a British prison colony, it has evolved into one of the world's premier tourist destinations. Visitors to Australia will delight in its exciting, cosmopolitan cities, fantastic weather and famously beautiful coastline, as well as the friendly nature of the locals who they encounter.

Australia - a country and continent in one - is the world's sixth-largest nation by land area, and has a wealth of natural attractions begging to be explored. The country is politically divided into six states and two territories, each one offering a different experience for the traveller. There is the drama of the remote 'Outback', the colourful spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef and its coral islands, the excitement of the big, efficient cities, the sun and surf at some of the best beaches in the world, and the tropical rainforests of Western Australia. The list is endless in this diverse land of adventure, which boasts about 2,000 national parks and 14 World Heritage-listed areas, along with more than 7,000 beaches.

For those who prefer to keep their holidays urban, Australia's cities will certainly not disappoint. Clean, cosmopolitan and youthful, Australia's urban centres (including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne) are world class. Famous cultural attractions in Australia include the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the Australian Museum and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Australia also boasts an impressive and fast-moving restaurant culture, guaranteed to satisfy even the fussiest gastronomes.

Australia is a land of character too, with its melting pot of cultures. For more than 50,000 years the Aboriginal people lived and thrived in the continent's unique environment. It is believed the Aboriginals are one of the world's oldest surviving civilisations, and recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in keeping the Aboriginal culture alive and flourishing in Australia.

Whether you schedule a lot of sightseeing in Australia, or plan to spend most of your time relaxing on the great beaches and sampling some of the local beer, you are bound to have a splendid time in the Land Down Under.

Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is a coastal locality in the Whitsunday Region of Queensland and is a popular area to access the Great Barrier Reef. A popular location for cruise ships Airlie Beach is a popular location not only because of the fantastic lagoon and many wonderful traditional Australian pastimes, but also its perfect location for access to both the Whitsunday Islands as well as the Great Barrier Reef.

Townsville, Queensland

With a magnetic charm and dozens of fabulous attractions and
golden sandy beaches, this laid-back little town oozes with
character and takes pride in being the unofficial capital of
Queensland. Townsville is located on the shores of Cleveland Bay
and with views of the picturesque and idyllic Magnetic Island in
the distance it's not hard to see why people are so strongly drawn
here.

Townsville played an active role in World War II, when American
and Australian troops were stationed here during the Pacific
campaign. Japanese bombs were even dropped in the harbour in 1942,
but thankfully there was very little damage to the coastal city.
Today an army of local and international tourists visit, drawn to
the year-round good weather and varied attractions to suit any
inclination.

Take a trip to the magnificent Magnetic Island to explore the
National Park, or take the plunge and do some reef diving to
discover the famous Yongala Wreck or Great Barrier Reef to the
east. Back on land go on a 4x4 trip into the Outback to the west,
marvel at the magnificently verdant tropical rainforests dotted
with waterfalls to the north, or visit the mango and sugar cane
farms to the south.

With numerous restaurants and bars, wonderful shopping
opportunities and a quiet cosmopolitan feel, Townsville has
something for everyone, though it should be noted that saltwater
crocodiles are present in all swimming locations here, including
the beach, so caution should be exercised in the water.

Willis Island, Queensland

While modern-day Australia might have started life as a British prison colony, it has evolved into one of the world's premier tourist destinations. Visitors to Australia will delight in its exciting, cosmopolitan cities, fantastic weather and famously beautiful coastline, as well as the friendly nature of the locals who they encounter.

Australia - a country and continent in one - is the world's sixth-largest nation by land area, and has a wealth of natural attractions begging to be explored. The country is politically divided into six states and two territories, each one offering a different experience for the traveller. There is the drama of the remote 'Outback', the colourful spectacle of the Great Barrier Reef and its coral islands, the excitement of the big, efficient cities, the sun and surf at some of the best beaches in the world, and the tropical rainforests of Western Australia. The list is endless in this diverse land of adventure, which boasts about 2,000 national parks and 14 World Heritage-listed areas, along with more than 7,000 beaches.

For those who prefer to keep their holidays urban, Australia's cities will certainly not disappoint. Clean, cosmopolitan and youthful, Australia's urban centres (including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne) are world class. Famous cultural attractions in Australia include the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the Australian Museum and the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA). Australia also boasts an impressive and fast-moving restaurant culture, guaranteed to satisfy even the fussiest gastronomes.

Australia is a land of character too, with its melting pot of cultures. For more than 50,000 years the Aboriginal people lived and thrived in the continent's unique environment. It is believed the Aboriginals are one of the world's oldest surviving civilisations, and recent years have seen a resurgence of interest in keeping the Aboriginal culture alive and flourishing in Australia.

Whether you schedule a lot of sightseeing in Australia, or plan to spend most of your time relaxing on the great beaches and sampling some of the local beer, you are bound to have a splendid time in the Land Down Under.

Cruising the Coral Sea

Thursday Island, Queensland

Thursday Island, also known as TI, is a picturesque and culturally diverse island located in the Torres Strait, off the coast of Cape York Peninsula in Australia. It is an important hub for the Torres Strait Islands and serves as the administrative center of the Torres Strait Region. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant community, Thursday Island offers visitors a unique and memorable experience.

One of the highlights of Thursday Island is its cultural diversity. The island is home to a vibrant mix of Torres Strait Islander and mainland Australian communities, creating a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and customs. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in this unique cultural experience by participating in art workshops, dance performances, and traditional ceremonies.

The history of Thursday Island can be traced back to the early 1870s when it became an important port for the pearling industry. At its peak, Thursday Island was one of the largest pearling centers in the world and attracted a diverse range of people from around the globe. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the pearling era, including the Japanese Cemetery and the Torres Strait Heritage Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the island's history.

For nature lovers, Thursday Island offers stunning landscapes and breathtaking scenery. The island is surrounded by crystal clear waters teeming with marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Maclear's Beacon, the highest point on the island, provides panoramic views of the Torres Strait and the neighboring islands. Visitors can also take a boat tour to explore the nearby uninhabited islands or try their hand at fishing, kayaking, or bird-watching.

The town of Thursday Island itself is charming and quaint, with colorful buildings and a relaxed island atmosphere. There are several cafes and restaurants where visitors can sample local seafood dishes, such as mud crab and barramundi, or indulge in Asian-inspired cuisine influenced by the island's multicultural heritage. The local markets are also a must-visit, offering a wide range of fresh produce, handmade crafts, and artwork.

Getting to Thursday Island is fairly straightforward. Visitors can fly directly from Cairns or Horn Island, which is connected to the mainland by regular flights. Alternatively, there are ferry services available from Seisia and Bamaga on the Cape York Peninsula.

Accommodation options on Thursday Island are varied, ranging from boutique hotels to self-contained apartments and guesthouses. Visitors can choose to stay in the heart of town or in more secluded locations with ocean views. It is advisable to book accommodation well in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.

In conclusion, Thursday Island offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors. From its rich cultural heritage and fascinating history to its stunning natural beauty and warm island hospitality, there is something for everyone to explore and enjoy on this tropical paradise. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the beauty of the Torres Strait, or simply relaxing and taking in the laid-back island atmosphere, Thursday Island is a destination not to be missed.

Cruising the Coral Sea

Cooktown, Queensland

Cooktown is a charming and historical town located in the northeast region of Australia, specifically in the stunning state of Queensland. Situated at the mouth of the Endeavour River, Cooktown is known for its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene.

Founded in 1873, Cooktown has a fascinating history that dates back to Captain James Cook's visit to the area in 1770. The town played a crucial role in the exploration and settlement of Australia, serving as a crucial supply depot for goldfields in the late 1800s. Today, visitors can explore the town's historical sites and gain an insight into its colonial past.

One of the highlights of visiting Cooktown is the chance to explore the stunning natural landscapes that surround the town. The region is home to the diverse ecosystems of the Wet Tropics and the Great Barrier Reef, making it an ideal base for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the area's diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, wallabies, and a wide range of bird species.

A must-visit attraction in Cooktown is the James Cook Museum. Housed in a charming 19th-century convent, the museum showcases an array of artifacts and exhibits relating to Captain Cook's historic voyage and the local Aboriginal culture. The museum provides fascinating insights into the region's history and its Indigenous heritage.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Cooktown offers a range of options. Nature enthusiasts can embark on scenic hikes through the tropical rainforest or go fishing in the pristine waters of the Endeavour River. Given its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can also explore the vibrant marine life and stunning coral reefs that lie just off the coast. The nearby Black Mountain National Park is also a popular destination for both locals and tourists, with its picturesque scenery and challenging hiking trails.

Cooktown is also renowned for its thriving arts and cultural scene. The town hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Cooktown Discovery Festival and the Cooktown Orchid Festival, which showcase the region's unique culture and heritage. Visitors can browse through local art galleries, visit craft shops, and enjoy performances by local artists.

In terms of accommodation and dining, Cooktown offers a range of options to suit every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from charming bed and breakfasts, self-contained apartments, and luxury resorts. The town's restaurants and cafes serve a diverse range of cuisine, including fresh seafood, Australian bush tucker, and international dishes.

Getting to Cooktown is relatively easy, with regular flights operating from major cities such as Cairns. Alternatively, visitors can embark on a scenic drive along the iconic Captain Cook Highway, enjoying breathtaking views of the coastline and rainforest along the way.

In conclusion, Cooktown is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Queensland, offering visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant arts scene, Cooktown is the perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Australian adventure.

Cairns, Queensland

The cosmopolitan, colourful city of Cairns, in far north
Queensland, is a tourist hub and the gateway to two of the world's
most awesome World Heritage Sites, the Great Barrier Reef and the
110-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest.

Cairns started life as a small fishing encampment, which
received an injection of prosperity in the 19th century when gold
was discovered to the north and tin and timber began to be
exploited in the nearby Atherton Tablelands. The harbour and
fishing operations increased in importance, and tourism arrived in
the early 20th century when marlin fishing became popular, and the
world discovered the delights of exploring the Great Barrier
Reef.

Aided by its pleasant, warm climate, the relaxed tropical town
has now become a frenzied international tourism centre, flooded
with visitors most of the year, its streets lined with souvenir
stores, eateries and some first class hotels. The harbour is
clogged with streamlined pleasure boats, and the offshore islands
bristle with resorts. To cater for tourists the city fathers have
even created a man-made salt-water lagoon and sandy beach on the
Esplanade to replace the original muddy swamp that crowned Trinity
Bay.

To holiday in Cairns is to holiday in a city that has a mission
to make tourists as happy as possible. Facilities and fun
recreation opportunities are excellent, and the city is a
relatively inexpensive destination. Anyone who enjoys a sunny beach
holiday should travel to Cairns, where the magnificent man-made
lagoon offers safe swimming all year round, the sunshine guarantees
a suntan, and there are plenty of shops, restaurants and nightclubs
to indulge in. A Cairns holiday is also popular among young
adventure tourists, with pursuits like scuba diving, skydiving, and
ballooning on offer. And, of course, the Great Barrier Reef is just
a hop and a skip away.