Sydney to Singapore

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.

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.

Airlie Beach

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.

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.

Darwin, Northern Territory

The city of Darwin, capital of the Northern Territory, presides
loftily over the top end of Australia. Set on a rocky peninsula
that stretches into one of the most beautiful natural harbours on
the north Australian coast, the city is surrounded by water on
three sides, which allows it to be fanned by cool breezes that
temper the tropical heat and humidity of its climate.

Darwin has survived destruction three times: the city was hit by
a cyclone in 1893; it was then bombed by the Japanese in 1942
during World War II; and more recently, in 1974, Cyclone Tracy
levelled the city on Christmas Eve. It is a tribute to the
pioneering spirit of its cosmopolitan population of 87,000 that it
has not only overcome these calamities, but gone on to thrive.

The city is compact, and the areas of most interest to tourists
are easy to explore on foot. The tropical climate encourages
outdoor living and simply strolling through the leafy streets,
browsing art galleries and enjoying refreshments at sidewalk cafes,
is a pleasure for visitors. Shady parks can be found behind busy
shopping streets and are a delight with exotic flowering trees like
frangipani, banyan and tamarind.

Darwin is a youthful, tropical city, small enough to feel
friendly and relaxed, and a great travel hub for exploring the
incredible natural wonders on the city's doorstep.

Komba Island

On the approach to Pulau Komodo, a tiny island just 36 km (22 miles) long and 16 km (9 miles) across at its widest point, it's hard to imagine that this is the home of the fearsome dragons described by late-19th-century explorers. The island, in the Indonesian region of Nusa Tenggara, lies between the islands of Sumbawa and Flores at the heart of the Komodo National Park, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the New7Wonders of Nature. At first look, steep hillsides of parched, golden grasses slide down into topaz bays covered in glass-clear waters, and white-sand beaches hem quiet shorelines. But then you remember that this innocent-looking island is inhabited by 13-foot-long, 220-pound ora, as Komodo dragons are known locally. Don't be frightened: Although stories of people disappearing run rampant, a trip here is quite safe—as long as you stay with a park guide.While Komodo dragons are the main attraction, several other large species also reside here. Dark-brown deer and small buffalo nibble the grasses of the high plains, macaques peer through the trees, and wild pigs crash through the underbrush. More than 150 types of birds also inhabit the island, including cockatoos, imperial pigeons, sea eagles, and mound-building megapodes. Offshore in the marine reserve, you might spot dolphins, dugong (a relative of the manatee), sea turtles, manta rays, and even whales, as well as more than 1,000 species of fish.Lodging on Pulau Komodo was nonexistent until 2012, when a modest, eco-friendly resort and diving club opened, providing a rare opportunity for scuba divers and snorkelers to explore this pristine habitat's extensive coral reefs and extraordinary marine life. Travelers can also find comfortable lodging and a convenient base from which to explore the many natural wonders of the Komodo National Park in Labuan Bajo, on the island of Flores (East Nusa Tenggara).

Benoa, Bali

Benoa, also known as Tanjung Benoa, is a picturesque village located on the southeastern coast of the island of Bali, Indonesia. This coastal paradise is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for beach lovers and water enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Benoa is its stunning beaches that offer a wide range of water sports activities. Whether you are a novice or an experienced water sports enthusiast, there is something for everyone here. From jet skiing and parasailing to banana boat rides and flyboarding, Benoa guarantees an adrenaline-filled adventure. Snorkeling and diving are also highly recommended here, as the coral reefs are teeming with colorful marine life. You can take a boat trip to nearby Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan islands for a more immersive underwater experience.

Benoa is also famous for its excellent surfing conditions. The nearby beaches of Nusa Dua and Jimbaran offer consistent waves that attract surfers from all over the world. If you're a beginner, there are several surf schools in the area where you can take lessons and learn the art of riding the waves. Experienced surfers will find plenty of challenging breaks to test their skills.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Benoa offers a range of luxurious resorts and spa retreats. Many of these resorts have their own private beaches, offering an exclusive and tranquil atmosphere for guests. Pamper yourself with a traditional Balinese massage or indulge in a spa treatment that combines ancient healing rituals with modern techniques. Benoa is the perfect place to unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Benoa is also a gateway to some of Bali's cultural and historical attractions. Just a short drive away, you'll find the culturally-rich town of Ubud, known for its art galleries, traditional crafts, and sacred temples. The famous Uluwatu Temple, perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, is another must-visit destination. Witness a mesmerizing sunset while watching the traditional Kecak dance performance, a unique cultural experience that shouldn't be missed.

When it comes to dining, Benoa offers a variety of culinary options. From upscale beachfront restaurants to local warungs (small eateries), you'll find something to satisfy every palate. Seafood lovers will delight in the fresh catches of the day, while those craving international cuisine will find a range of choices, including Italian, Indian, and Japanese.

Benoa's proximity to Ngurah Rai International Airport makes it easily accessible for travelers. It is also well-connected to other popular tourist areas such as Seminyak and Kuta, which are just a short drive away. Additionally, Benoa serves as a hub for boat trips to the nearby islands of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, where you can explore hidden beaches, cliffs, and breathtaking viewpoints.

In summary, Benoa is a beach lover's paradise that offers a combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. With its stunning beaches, water sports activities, luxurious resorts, and proximity to cultural attractions, it is no wonder that Benoa attracts visitors from all over the world. No matter what you're seeking in a vacation, Benoa has something to offer everyone.

Singapore

Beguiling Singapore is a modern city-state embracing economic
progress against the backdrop of age-old tradition. Many business
people and holidaymakers travel to Singapore on their way to the
Far East, or as a stop-off between Australia and Europe, and are
eager to see and experience this legendary hi-tech Asian city,
which combines traditional enclaves with the towering steel and
cement of a cosmopolitan international power-house. The customs
that underpin community life emerge out of a cultural mix that
includes predominantly Chinese, Indian and Malay ethnic groups.

Singapore is an island off the southern tip of Malaysia, linked
to it by a causeway. It evolved from a sleepy fishing village in
the early 1900s to become one of Asia's economic tigers. Sir Thomas
Stamford Raffles landed on Singapore's northern bank in 1819,
quickly identifying a strategic trading location. Singapore's rural
landscape was transformed by British colonial rule, Japanese
occupation, Communist insurrection and finally, independence. Since
becoming a republic in 1965 the island has experienced increased
prosperity and exponential economic growth. Shimmering skyscrapers
tower above the slick financial districts and elegant colonial
buildings preserve a lingering old-world charm.

Singapore's full calendar of events showcases a spectrum of
cultural celebrations and shopping activities. The early summer
months bustle in anticipation of the Singapore Sale - a time when
tourists can cash in on the competitive prices of electronic
equipment, jewellery and other merchandise. The business activity
thrives amid the celebration of Chinese, Hindu and Muslim festivals
that punctuate the year with their colourful representations. These
include the Chinese New Year, Ramadan, Hari Raya Puasa, Vesak Day,
the Dragon Boat Festival, Festival of the Hungry Ghosts and
Thaipusam.

The core of downtown Singapore is formed by the Colonial
District, embellished by cathedrals and cricket lawns. The notable
sites of the area include the Empress Place Building and the
luxurious Raffles Hotel. Although most of old Singapore has been
demolished to make way for the modern city, many major landmarks
within the Colonial District have been preserved. The surrounding
ethnic enclaves of Little India, Chinatown and the Arab Quarter
also provide glimpses into the traditions that have sustained their
respective communities through the centuries.