Sydney

Sydney - one of the most sought-after travel destinations on the planet.And no wonder, Sydney has it all, a spectacular ocean-side location, a wonderful climate, a lively and unique cultural and entertainment scene, and a variety of charming character-filled neighbourhoods. Although Sydney is a teeming metropolis of over four million people, it still retains a small town intimacy and friendliness.


Climate:

Summer runs from late October through to late March/early April.Winter in Sydney is often better than summer in many northern countries and some would prefer the winter months to the oppressive humidity and sweltering sun that are prevalent from the middle of December to the end of February. The spring months of September and October are sunny and bright. Fall is similar, April is usually wet, but May tends to be pleasant and relatively dry.


Attractions:

Sydney Harbour Bridge
Sydney Harbour Bridge was the longest single span arch in the world.Below the Harbour Bridge is the phenomenally fascinating area known as The Rocks. This was formed out of the rocky spur that was the site of the original European settlement of Sydney.

Cadman's Cottage
Sydney's oldest house. The highpoint of the Rocks though is the ambience; just strolling through the streets here is a wonderful experience.

Sydney Opera House
The name Opera House is somewhat misleading, perhaps Centre for the Performing Arts would be more appropriate - as a plethora of musical and stage events take place here. There are five performance venues within, as well as restaurants and bars.

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
Sydney has a large gay and lesbian community and the city is host to the biggest gay festival in the world. his is held in February and consists of gay-oriented arts and exhibitions. he festival culminates in one of the biggest street parades in the world.

Darwin

Darwin - In the far north of Australia's Northern Territory lies Darwin, the smallest of the country's regional capitals. It is a place full of history, recreational opportunities, and numerous interesting activities. It is relatively secluded, but there are few places that provide such an opportunity for viewing wildlife and Australia's unique outdoors.For beach lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts, Darwin is worth a visit.


Climate:

Regardless the time of year, Darwin maintains a consistent temperature of about 30 to 33 Degrees Celsius (86 to 91 Degrees Fahrenheit). The 'Wet Season' runs from October to March.

Attractions:

Indo-Pacific Marine
Indo-Pacific Marine is a unique aquarium that houses a variety of sea-life, including coral. The Marine is filled with small tanks, and each of these represents a separate ecosystem. A full living coral reef is one of the most impressive displays here.

Darwin Crocodile Farm
Located 30 minutes outside Darwin in Noonambah is the Darwin Crocodile Farm. Over 8, 000 crocodiles and alligators reside at the farm, and they are kept in as natural a habitat as is possible. Snowy Mcarthur, the world's largest white saltwater crocodile at over 4 metres long, resides here.

Beaches
Darwin is surrounded by numerous beaches, but it is important to note that between October and May swimming is out of the question. This is due to the large amounts of extremely dangerous box jellyfish in the waters. Throughout the rest of the year, swimming in Darwin is great, and there is no shortage of beaches to pick from: Mindil, Vestey's and Mandorah are just a few. The area also provides some excellent scuba diving opportunities.

Howard Springs Nature Park
Howard Springs Nature Park was the first Reserve in the Northern Territory. It is 283 hectares, featuring an impressive diversity of habitats, including monsoon forests, riverine areas, and extensive swamp systems. Crocodile-free swimming is offered here, and the swimming hole is located in a scenic area of the park that is surrounded by a lush forest.

Brisbane

Brisbane - riverside parks, a cosmopolitan attitude, a city of beauty and warmth divinely placed between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Encompassed by the sun this city of 1.6 million people offers locals and tourists the convenience of a metropolitan centre with the natural beauty of the east coast of Australia. The city's character - past, present and future - is entangled with the twisty Brisbane River, the river whose banks the city is built upon. As well as adding to the cities charm and beauty the snaking river also provides the city with a waterway that is utilized as a transport system.


Climate:

The hot sunny summers and the mild winters give Brisbane an ideal climate. Brisbane is less humid in the tourist high season, the winter months of July, August and September.


Attractions:


Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
The Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a memorable destination. Opened in 1927 Lone Pine is the largest koala sanctuary in the world - featuring 130 of the loveable creatures. Set on the river, the sanctuary is also home to several species of Australian flora and fauna. Visitors can see kangaroos, possums, wombats, emus and other species of birds. This 50 acre park also has some wonderful areas for hikers and picnickers to explore. Educational presentations on the flora and fauna are held throughout the day.

Mt Coot-tha Reserve
In the parkland just outside Brisbane the scenic lookout of Mt Coot-tha beckons. Brisbane lies at the foot of the mountain with the city center resting in a curve of the river. On a clear day Moreton and Stradbroke Islands can be seen in the distance. The Aboriginal Art Trail, one of the many hiking trails in the area, takes visitors past eight sites of aboriginal art. The Brisbane Botanical Garden, with 52 hectares of garden, features flora from the tropics, rain forests and arid environments as well as a Japanese garden.

Brisbane Forest Park
This popular recreational area is well used by the city residents. Many of the trails throughout the area are best accessed by car however there is some bus access to the park. Hiking, horseback riding, camping and cycling are all activities that take place in the reserve. At the entrance of the park there is an information centre with trail, camping and area data. Near the information center is Walk-About Creek, a centre that features a close up view of creatures including the platypus, fish, turtles, pythons, and lizards.

South Bank Parklands
South Bank Parklands was the site of the 1988 World Expo. The Park is still vital and lovely as it has been redeveloped and rejuvenated over the years. Visitors can spend some time exploring Pauls Breaka Beach, this popular attraction is an artificial beach that is built to look like a tropical lagoon. A part of Stanley Street, an historic area, has been revitalized and holds cafes, shops and restaurants. Nearby the Imax theater showcases a variety of films. This entire area is within walking distance from the city centre.

Adelaide

Adelaide - is a gracious city. The city is set amongst the slopes of the Mount Lofty Ranges and along the winding River Torrens. The Adelaide Hills surround the city, putting it near many opportunities for recreation and exploration. As the capital of South Australia, Adelaide is also home to several state attractions including the Art Galley, Museum and Library.

Adelaide is considered the "festival capital of Australia." More festivals and major events are hosted here than any other city in Australia,
making it a culturally diverse and exciting visitor location.


Climate:

As with all of Australia, Adelaide experiences its summer season between the months of December and February. Because the seasons are opposite, this is the ideal time for travellers from the northern hemisphere. Adelaide enjoys a climate similar to the Mediterranean. The summers are hot and dry.
Winter in Adelaide, between June and August, tends to be mild. It is often said the best
time to visit Adelaide is during the "in between" seasons of spring and autumn when a more moderate climate can be enjoyed. Although spring brings the most rain to the area, South Australia receives less rainfall in comparison to other Australian states.


Attractions:

North Terrace
North Terrace is quite possibly one of the most beautiful boulevards in the state of South Australia.The pathways along North Terrace are lit with antique-style gas lamps, which were donated in 1988 to commemorate the country's bicentenary. Several of the buildings situated along North Terrace Boulevard date back more than 160 years.

Holy Trinity Anglican Church
Holy Trinity Anglican Church was built in 1838, shortly after European settlers arrived. Government House, one of the oldest buildings in Adelaide, serves as the residence for the Governor of South Australia.

Ayers Historic House
Built in the 1860s, was once the home of Sir Henry Ayers (a former South Australian premier). This exquisite bluestone house, which is a fine example of Regency Architecture, now exists as a museum and restaurant.

Adelaide Botanic Garden
One of the most popular attractions along North Terrace is the Adelaide Botanic Garden. It is bordered by the River Torrens and filled with lush greenery, a colourful array of flowers, artificial lakes, a tropical rainforest conservatory, a Victorian Glass House and more.

Adelaide Hills
The Adelaide Hills area, part of the Mount Lofty Ranges, has plenty to offer visitors. The Hills are a wonderful day trip from Adelaide. Historic townships, natural areas of bushland, bushwalking trails, gardens, vineyards and wildlife parks are key elements of the area.

Mount Lofty Summit
The Mount Lofty Summit has been dubbed the "Window to South Australia." From the top of the 727 metre (795 yard) summit, it is possible to see Hahndorf, Glenelg and other towns in the Adelaide Hills. Geographical highlights such as Piccadilly Valley, the Murray River and the coastline are also visible.

Cleland Wildlife Park
Cleland Wildlife Park is home to many species of native Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, koalas, dingos, wombats and more.

Warrawong Earth Sanctuary
The Warrawong Earth Sanctuary provides refuge for many endangered species.

Belair National Park
Belair National Park is an urban park that lies in the Adelaide Hills region. It was dedicated as the first National Park in South Australia in 1891. An array of geographical and geological diversity can be found within the park, as well as unique plant-life, mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians. The park also features a golf course, tennis courts, picnic areas, sporting ovals and other facilities.