Archive for the ‘Australia’ Category

Queensland

Friday, February 26th, 2010

The northeastern area of the mainland of Australia is home to the state Queensland. It borders with the states Northern Territory, South Australia and New South Wales. Queensland has many world heritage sites, landscapes, vibrant cities, golden beaches, clear blue waters and warm temperatures. The state is named in honor of Queen Victoria. Its nickname is the Sunshine State.

The capital city is Brisbane, which has a lively atmosphere. Other cities are the popular Cairns in the north, Mount Isa, Charleville, Townsville, Port Douglas, Bundaberg, Caloundra, Noosa, Mackay, Hervey Bay, Gladstone and Rockhampton. Each city and town in Queensland has its own atmosphere but you will always enjoy real hospitality from the citizens. To the south of Brisbane lies the Gold Coast, a popular tourist area with beaches and resorts. To the north of the capital city lies Sunshine Coast, an area with many different cities.

Queensland has many amazing landscapes and natural treasures. You can visit the Great Barrier Reef, one of the great wonders of the world. It is home to more than tens of thousands of species, including colorful fish, coral, dolphins, whales and turtles. Another great site is the Daintree National Park with rain forest, swamps, beaches and mangroves. You can follow walking tracks to see this nature. In the southeast of Queensland lies Gondwana Rainforest, an extensive area of rain-forests. Bloodjamulla Lawn Hill National Park also has many rain-forests.

Other great national parks are Fraser Island off the Hervey Bay coast, Bunya Mountains National Park and Carnarvon National Park. You can also visit the Great Dividing Range with waterfalls and picnic areas, the Glass House Mountains, Cape York Peninsula, the white sandy beaches of Whitsunday Islands and Hinchinbrook Island.

The state of Queensland offers everything for every tourist. It has the most beautiful nature of the world, including rain forests, lakes and beaches. The people are friendly and most of the time laid-back. The climate offers warm temperatures with a subtropical to tropical climate in the east and arid climate to the west. The north has a wet season. The best time to visit Queensland depends on your destination.

Travelers to Queensland need a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Launceston

Friday, January 22nd, 2010

Launceston is the second largest city in Tasmania after its state capital Hobart. It’s situated at the juncture of the North Esk, South Esk and Tamar rivers. The city was settled by Europe in 1806, and is nowadays one of the oldest cities in Australia, and home to the largest selection of 19th century buildings. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 110 thousand people.

The city of Launceston can be easily reached with approximately 50 minutes flight from Melbourne, flights from Sydney and Brisban are available also, or by car through the highway system in Northern Tasmania. Once you arrived in the city, it’s best to proceed by rental car or taxi depending on the length of your stay. For budget travelers the Metro bus service or bicycle rentals are additional options.

Launceston sightseeing can be entertaining and yet relaxing, a few major tourist attractions include the Launceston City Park for a laid back atmosphere, pick nicks and enjoyment. The city offers several historic and cultural buildings as well housings such as the Macquarie House, Franklin House, Entally House, Clarendon House and the “Old Umbrella Shop”. A handful of museums are spread over the town which can be visited at anytime, for a relaxing day trip head over to the Tamar Valley for wine tasting and watching, learning how wine is being made.

Travelers to Launceston need a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Canberra

Sunday, January 3rd, 2010

Most travelers don’t know this fact unless they’ve been there, Canberra is the capital city of Australia located in the Australian Capital Territory being surrounded by the state of New South Wales and southwest of Australia’s largest city Sydney. It’s the largest inland city and the eight largest Australian city overall. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 345 thousand people.

Since 1901 the capital of Australia has been established in Canberra, although most foreigners think that Sydney or Melbourne is the capital city. Australia’s national parliament, federal government, the High Court of Australia, the Australian War Memorial along with several other important institutions are all located in Canberra.

Canberra has five large town centers; Central Canberra, Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong and Queanbeyan which lie in the valleys of the Canberra region. The most popular destination among travelers is Central Canberra which has several areas of interests. Historical and cultural sightseeing go alone with a modern city center where shopping, accommodation and dining facilities are widely available. Canberra is different than the most Australian cities, first of all it’s relatively young as it’s been established in 1927 and secondly it’s expanding rapidly with new developments. A strange but true fact is that city hall has excluded any building plans over 15 stories high. It makes the skyline a lot less appealing, unlike the modern cities. But don’t be turned off by the skyline, you will realize soon enough that Canberra is a great place to explore, relax, enjoy and learn about Australian lifestyle, culture and history.

Travelers to Canberra need a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Great Barrier Reef

Saturday, October 31st, 2009

Great Barrier Reef is the globe’s largest coral reef which composes over 2900 individual reefs and 900 islands located in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Queensland in north east Australia. The great barrier reef can be seen from space as the globe’s largest single structure made by living organisms, the reef is built by billions of tiny organisms known as coral polyps.

The Great Barrier Reef is a site of remarkable variety of life and beauty and therefore is a World Heritage Site since 1981. By known latest known measurements the great barrier reefs counts 400 types of coral, 1500 species of fish and 400 types of molluscs. Also, the great barrier reef has been labeled as one of the 7 natural world wonders on this globe. The Great Barrier Reefs hold an important note in scientific knowledge, latest research include the habitat species of dugong “sea cow” and chelonia mydas “green turtle”.

The most convenient way to reach Great Barrier Reef is through Townsville and Marinepark, it consist out of hundreds uninhabited islands with bounty sand white beaches where you can stay and explore the reef by snorkeling or diving. As accommodation (when available) is rather expensive, most travelers choose to camp on the beaches. Make sure to bring a local tour guide that’s booked through a certificate company. The Long Island is the reef’s most visited island, the reasoning is that it’s close to the shore and excellently suited for a day trip. From there, it’s easy to navigate towards Whitesunday Islands, Molle Islands, Hamilton Island, Hook Island, Daydream Island and any of the other 900 plus islands located in the reef. There’s several national parks in the reef including Tyron, Lady Musgrave and North West which are excellent for relaxation and perfection.

Travelers to the Great Barrier Reef are recommended to get an accommodation in Queensland, Australia mostly Townsville. For entrance an valid passport and visa need to be shown at immigration. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Cairns

Monday, September 14th, 2009

Cairns is a popular tourist city in the province Far North Queensland in Australia. For many tourists is the best place to start their travel around Queensland. The city is located on the east coast on a coastal strip and it is surrounded by rain forest. It is a major port for the export of goods. There are two rivers flow thing through the city’s boundary, the Mulgrave River and the Barron River. Cairns has a population of approximately 130 thousand people.

Cairns has a lot of accommodations for all budgets and many drinking establishments and restaurant catering. The city has a handful of museums and an old wharf area. In the center a swimming lagoon is located with adjoining barbecue areas. Cairns is home to many sports, including basketball, amateur rugby and international cricket. The city is close to the sea, mountains and rain forest, so this gives you plenty of choices for activities, including swimming, fishing and walking. The area is popular for spotting a huge variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles. You can learn more about the Australian wildlife in wildlife exhibit Cairns Wildlife Dome. This exhibit has a replicated tropical rain forest.

While Cairns itself does have much to offer, most travelers come to the place to visit sights nearby. In less than an hour you are at the Great Barrier Reef. Experiencing a tropical rain forest is possible in the Daintree National Park and the Cape Tribulation. There are tours to the Atherton Tabelands, Port Douglas and Copperlode Dam. Or you could enjoy exploring other places such as Cooktown and Cape York Peninsula. There are plenty of organized tours that depart from Cairns to different destinations.

Travelers to Cairns are required a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit. You’ll soon discover that Cairns is a popular place to hook up with fellow travelers.

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Adelaide

Thursday, August 20th, 2009

Adelaide is the capital of the state of South Australia and is the fifth largest city in the country. It is a coastal city  situated on the eastern shores of Gulf St. Vincent. Its population is over 1 million people. This lively city was founded in 1836 and is now the government and commercial center of South Australia.

Adelaide offers so many options for travelers. There are beach fronts with sandy swimming beaches, beautiful architecture, boutique shops, a sparkling nightlife, fine multicultural dining and fabulous art events. The city has an attracting and relaxed atmosphere. You can walk over The North Terrace Boulevard or have a picnic in the nearby Park Lands. Or, if you like the outdoors, visit the Adelaide Hill Wildlife Parks or other national parks. Relaxing is easy in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. Surrounding Adelaide are many famous wine districts worth checking out.

The city is home to many festivals and sporting events. Locals and tourists come to Festival of Arts, Fringe Festival, Comedy Festival, WOMA Delaide, Bay to Birdwood with vintage vehicles, the V8 super car race Clipsal 500, and so much more. Adelaide is home to teams that play Australian rules (AFL) football, Association football and cricket. There are plenty of museums around, such as the Art Gallery, the South Australian Museum, the Migration Museum and The South Australian Maritime Museum. There are also plenty of statues and memorials.

Travelers to Adelaide need a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Melbourne

Thursday, August 20th, 2009

Melbourne is the capital and largest city of the southeastern state of Victoria. It is also the second largest city in Australia. It has a population of approximately 3.9 million people, who are multicultural and sports-mad as well. The city is located at the head of the Port Philip Bay. Melbourne is often regarded as the cultural capital of Australia.

Melbourne has everything on the area of arts, commerce, education, industry, sports and tourism. It features Victorian and contemporary architecture, expansive parks and gardens, extensive shopping, museums, galleries and theaters. The soap Neighbors is filmed in this city. The multicultural society offers a great diversity. They share a common love for sports, as the city is home to Aussie Rules (AFL) Football, the Australian Tennis Open, the Australian Formula One Grand Prix and the Melbourne Cup and the national horse event Spring Racing Carnival. This last event evens stops the whole nation.

The city center is of most interest for tourists. It offers bars, cafes, boutiques and department stores. Nice green parks are around to flee the busy life. You can’t miss the Eureka Tower, Rialto Towers, Parliament House of Victoria, the prominent Southgate with its lively restaurants and bars and the Queen Victoria Market. Almost everything in the center is accessible by foot. Other interesting activities are visits to the Comic’s Lounge, the St Francis Church, Grampians National Park, The Great Ocean Road and Philip Island.

Travelers to Melbourne are required a valid passport and visa. Citizens of America, Canada and Europe will automatically after application receive a tourist visa that is valid for 12 months. It permits multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit. As for the weather, Melbourne is known for changing weather conditions.

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Sydney

Thursday, February 26th, 2009

Sydney is the capital city of the south eastern Australian state of New South Wales. The city has a population of 4 million people, and covers almost 700 square miles. Many travelers may think Sydney is the capital of Australia but its not, the capital of Australia of Canberra.

Sydney is Australia’s oldest, largest and most diverse city, with its outrageously superb looking harbor. There’s no way to describe the Sydney experience, it’s physical. Drunk yourself on the Bondi and Manly surf situated north and south of Sydney Heads, sail on gigantic yacht through the harbor or ride through Centennial Park on a horseback. Australians love to be outside, on warm days the beaches, cafes and terrace are packed with locals and tourist enjoying a cold Foster Lager.

It’s easy to move around in this remarkable city, an excellent public train, bus and ferry service connects all districts and areas. Regardless, most of the tourist attractions are within the central city area and the harbor. Suggested is to spend time walking around the CBD (Central Business District) area, visiting The Rocks and relaxing a day in the harbor on a sunny, with a clear blue sky day.

Travelers to Australia are required a valid passport and visa. Citizens from US, Europe and Canada automatically receive a ETA (Electronic Travel Authority) visa, as long the stay does not extend 1 year (or until the passport expires, whichever comes first) and permit multiple entries into Australia for a stay of up to 3 months on each visit.

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Hobart

Wednesday, January 28th, 2009

Hobart is the capital city of Australia’s southernmost state of Tasmania. It is also Tasmania’s most populous city and Australia’s second oldest city. Hobart has a small town charm but it also possesses the ingredients that make up a thriving city. This means that you can enjoy casinos, theaters, restaurants, and the works while still enjoying a laid back atmosphere and just joke around with the locals. It is home to over 200 thousand people.

Just as Hobart is able to combine the relaxed attitude of a small town with the modernized look of a city, some of the city’s attractions are known for their old-world charm. It is home to the second oldest botanical gardens in Australia, The Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens. Hobart is also a popular stop for the yacht-sailing crowd. Locals and tourists can mingle at the port during the festival appropriately named “Taste of Tasmania” because of the variety of International dishes available.

To visit Tasmania, you need to book a flight to another Australian state. From there you can fly via Qantas airlines to the southernmost state. Other airline options are Jetstar and Virgin Blue. Within Hobart, you can get around by bus, tram, or taxi. Taxis have metered fares and are highly available along busy tourist areas. If you want to drive yourself around, you can rent a car or even a motorcycle. When you rent a vehicle, you can already ask about parking rates within areas you are interested in. Hobart experiences extreme temperatures. So, choose whether you want to experience the hot or the cold side of the city. Very hot days can mean a temperature as high as 104 degree Fahrenheit and cold days can mean a below zero temperature.

You need a valid passport for the duration of your stay in Hobart, Tasmania. Instead of a visa, you will be given an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA), which is an electronically verified visa. An ETA allows the holder to stay in Australia for three months.

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