Reduce your carbon footprint this holiday season.

So you’ve packed your bags and you’re looking forward to your holiday of a lifetime in Australia. All you have to do now is get a taxi to the airport, a plane to Dubai and then catch your transfer to Australia, then another taxi to your hotel.

You then wonder what that does to your carbon footprint score. It can’t be good. With Copenhagen thrashing out a deal to save the world from global warming, you can’t help but feel that you ought to be doing something to help, oh but you have always wanted to go to Australia….what do you do?

Well now you can combine a holiday in the sun with saving the world! No really! Right now there are a number of eco-tourism projects you can get involved with in South Australia that allow you to mix saving the world with pleasure. So if you want a holiday with a clean conscience and don’t mind getting your hands dirty, read on for our ultimate guide to eco-tourism in Australia.

It’s a common myth that eco-tourism is just for students on a gap year, or young eco warriors. Nowadays it’s aimed at everyone from 8 to 80 and you can do as much, or as little as you like. And it’s not just a clean conscience you’ll have at the end of it, you also take away with you the experiences and the friendships that you’ve built up over your holiday. It may not change your life, but it will change the way you holiday and give you a sense of satisfaction that you just can’t get from lying on a beach all day.

If you love getting your hands dirty and want to play an active part in eco-tourism, then ‘Voluntourist’ holidays may be just what you need. These holidays require a certain level of fitness from tourists and a burning desire to be involved.

Families

Earthwatch is now the world’s oldest and largest organisation in the eco-tourist industry. Holidaymakers here can mix science with sambrinis as they take part in scientific field research. You can choose to go on a climate change expedition in Australia’s rainforest, study the turtles of Kimberley or do a Reef Survey on Ningaloo Reef.

Earthwatch caters for all ages.

An example expedition is the Vanishing Frogs Weekend which is suitable for all the family. Assess the status of critically endangered frogs in the rainforests of eastern Australia by collecting data and analyzing results. In the past teams of volunteers have discovered four new species of frog – will you be the one to discover a fifth?

You’ll be sleeping under the stars in the State Forest, experiencing nature first hand and setting off on night expeditions. If you want to get close to nature, then this may be the holiday for you. All meals will be traditional camp-fire meals that you’ll be able to help prepare and serve. You’ll come away from this trip knowing more about the rainforests fragile eco-system and a greater awareness of how to protect these unique creatures. To find out more about this holiday and others like it, visit Earthwatch.

Youths and the Young at Heart

Conservation Volunteers Australia is a practical conservation organisation that has won awards for the quality of their work and the dedication of volunteers. They run holidays that allow you to enjoy the beauty of the Australian environment whilst working to preserve that environment for future generations to enjoy.

Be prepared to muck in and get your hands dirty!

Teams of 6 to 10 volunteers are assembled and the kinds of activities you may be involved in include: tree planting, erosion and salinity control, seed collection, construction and maintenance of walking tracks, endangered flora and fauna surveys and monitoring, weed control, habitat restoration and heritage protection. You can choose from weekend projects, overnight projects or a single day (some of the single day projects are free to join!). All your meals, accommodation and travel to and from the projects are included.

It’s a great way to meet others from all walks of life and this really is a hands-on experience. Your hands may be dirty but at least your conscience will be clean!

The Older Generation

For those who want to learn about the environment and it’s treasures but who are perhaps a little too creaky to be digging about in the mud and skinning up trees, then why not get involved in a camel safari with a difference?

Save the planet in style by going camelback.

Explore the Outback Camel Safaris is Australia’s leading nature-based educational camel safari operator. For 6 months of the year, every year, they take their camels deep into the Australian deserts to conduct vital research and exploration and now they have opened their doors to allow tourists to join them in preserving the desert’s natural and cultural heritage.

On these 4 – 8 day expeditions you’ll be trekking across the desert on camelback and participating in flora and fauna survey and identification as well as general exploration and historical research. Many desert plants and animals are inaccessible on conventional tours, you’ll get the chance to study these in detail as well as getting up close and personal to some rather friendly camels. You will also be able to test out your navigational skills.

Along the way you’ll also get the chance to see the historic tin hotel at William Creek, witness some spectacular natural artesian spring flows (and quite possibly the most famous spring, the “Bubbler”) and stop off at Strangways or Peake ruins, Australia’s first repeater stations for the historic Overland Telegraph Line.

Whilst you won’t be required to do any strenuous physical exercise, you will need to be fit enough to spend nights camping out in the desert and to manage around 30mins of walking each day. Professionally trained staff will be on hand throughout the day and night for the safety and comfort of all participants. You’ll come away from this holiday with a knowledge of desert life and camels that you can bore your friends with down the pub for years to come!

The Restful Types

Ok, so maybe you’re getting on a bit and want nothing more than a restful holiday, or perhaps you’d like a romantic retreat but without the carbon footprint. What contribution could you possibly make whilst on such a holiday? Well you can stay in Saunders Gorge Sanctuary located in a 1364ha of private conservation area on the rugged eastern slopes of the Mount Lofty Ranges or Adelaide Hills. Right in the secluded outback yet only a 90min drive from Adelaide itself.

Stay in their eco-friendly and snug lodges.

You can choose to stay in a hideaway cottage or one of their nature lodges, all with spectacular views of the valley and hills beyond and as close to nature as you can get. The Sanctuary is eco-certified by the Ecotourism board and has won 3 green stars for its environmentally friendly practices, including the use of underfloor heating for the accommodation and solar powered energy where possible.

You can meet with the owners and find out about their conservation projects including the removal of a large patch of pepper and olive trees to be replaced with native grassland and vegetation and the owners do everything possible to protect and care for the native wildlife around them. There are many trails you can walk on to fully appreciate the spectacular surroundings, and for those who find it difficult to get around on foot, the owners will even take you on a 4 wheel drive tour of the countryside, stopping at the most scenic spots to allow you to fully take in and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the many gorges and valleys. And if you wish you get involved in some of the conservation projects you are welcome to do so.

Wildlife Lovers

Arid Recovery is an ecosystem restoration initiative dedicated to restoring Australia’s arid land. It’s located 25km north of Roxby Downs in South Australia’s Outback and is focused on eliminating non-native pest species such as rabbits, cats and foxes and reintroducing many of the native wildlife instead. Four species of locally extinct mammals have been reintroduced into the area since Arid Recovery started in 1997. They are often on the lookout for volunteers to help with research and monitoring, so if you are interested in working with them, log onto their website.

Scarlet chested parrots at the Gluepot Reserve.

Birds Australia Gluepot Reserve is one of Australia’s largest community owned conservation reserves dedicated to protecting endangered bird species. Located in the semi-arid South Australian mallee, it comprises of 50,000 ha of land, home to 6 nationally endangered bird species, 17 regionally threatened species, 190 other recorded species and native flora and fauna. They run annual activities that require volunteer help, such as re-vegetation and surveys. Look on their website for volunteering opportunities if you want to help.

So there you have it, eco-tourism to suit everyone! And what’s more, you’ll have much more to show for your holidays than a tacky souvenir and a nice tan, you’ll have left your mark on Australia’s unique environment that will help preserve it for future generations. That’s got to be better than a kangaroo postcard!

If you want to know more about eco-tourism, visit the South Australia tourist board.

As we Brits contemplate hibernation to get away from the wet and windy British winter, the Aussies are getting ready to come out and play as the country hots up for the summer!

What better way to cast off those winter blues than to exchange your hot mug of chocolate for a chilled lager, your slippers for sandals, winter woolies for bikinis and hotpot for a barbie? So throw away those hot water bottles and let Australia get your temperature soaring!

Think of the golden sandy beaches, the clear blue seas, the cloudless skies, I mean, where else can you holiday this winter that’ll require you to pack your suncream? And if you’re already dreading the chores of Christmas and the usual arguments of whether to invite Uncle Wilf with his wind problem, or the sister who doesn’t speak to anyone, you can solve those problems by escaping to the sun!

And sunshine is practically guaranteed with average temperatures ranging from a high of 36°C in Alice Springs, 22°C in Hobart and 25°C in Darwin in January.

As the UK battens down the hatches, Australia really does come to life and there is an eclectic mix of things to do down under, as our calendar guide shows you:

December

Thursday nights are market nights with a difference! The famous St Kilda Beach Night Markets pitch up their stalls every Thursday night from 3 December through until 25 February.

Experience the magical atmosphere of the Beach Night Market.

Forget the UK markets on a damp drizzly day, with a few stalls offering towels, veg and pet food, this is market day Aussie style! Set on the beach at St Kilda there are over 80 stalls offering a wide variety of produce from all over the world. If you’re fashion conscious then you’re bound to find something among the vintage, retro, boho and ethnic styles available.

If clothes aren’t your thing, you might find a little treasure amongst the antique and curio stalls, or handmade gifts to appease the in-laws who are sat at home watching repeats on TV. Once you’ve done with shopping, grab a bite to eat from one of the global cuisine stalls, then sit under a palm tree and picnic to the afro grooves and bongo beats. This isn’t just any old market day, this is St Kilda beach night market and you won’t forget it in a hurry!

Alice Springs Christmas Carnival provides a family friendly atmosphere to bring about a little Christmas cheer! Live entertainment will line the streets along with magicians, circus performers, balloon twisters and buskers. Children will kept busy in the Universal Solar Garden whilst you browse around the numerous market stalls offering a wide range of arts and crafts, global foods and tastings, jewellry, books and so on. It’s your final chance to do that last-minute Christmas shopping so you might as well make the most of it and be entertained whilst you shop! The carnival is on the 11 December.

The explosion of fireworks over Sydney Harbour Bridge. Image courtesy of Tourism Australia.

Whatever you do, don’t miss the world famous New Year’s Eve Firework Display in Sydney! With the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as a backdrop, there really is no other display to top it. This is the largest annual firework display in the world and whilst millions of people will be tuning in to watch it on TV, you could be there having the experience of a lifetime, what a way to start 2010!

January

This is festival month and the largest and most famous festival of all is the Sydney Festival. Brimming with local talent the city is taken over by performers, artists, comedians and musicians.

The weird and the wonderful bring the city to life in a blaze of colour, music and sheer mayhem! Al Green is just one of the headline acts that include Circus Oz, Grizzly Bear, Fractured and Trevor Jackson.

Do not miss the first night where the streets are taken over by theatre, music and dance. In the daytime families can learn to juggle or watch circus performances and romantics can stroll along Hyde Park whilst listening to the soothing melodies of jazz and blues whilst the sun goes down. Then at night it’s time to party with the likes of Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and their guests. And the great thing about this first night party is that it’s all FREE!

The festival starts on the 9 January until the 30^th and whatever your taste, with performers from the theatre, music, dance, family, visual arts and even lectures, the Sydney Festival will have you begging for seconds!

26 January is Australia Day when cities all over Australia will be celebrating national pride. From tall ships in Sydney Harbour to concerts in Melbourne, cities and towns everywhere will be buzzing with music, street performances, city parades and even the odd thong throwing contest! So join in this outburst of national pride and discover the hidden Aussie within!

Join in the celebrations of Australia Day!

And if you head northwest of New South Wales you might come across the small town of Tamworth, population of just 40,000. This friendly, easy-going town undergoes a bit of a transformation come Australia Day as the locals and visitors alike go country music mad! Around 50,000 country music lovers descend upon this small town for the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Australian Country Music Awards. It lasts for 10 days, covering Australia Day and literally the whole town is turned into a huge arena showcasing the very best of Australian country music. From concert halls to shopping malls, pubs to clubs there is not a square inch of this town that isn’t jiving and whooping along to the beat. Catch your favourite performers as bands and vocalists arrive to find out who has won the coveted Golden Guitar Awards. Yee Ha!

February

Perth explodes onto the scene in February with the annual Perth Festival. Running for four weeks Perth celebrates the arts, theatre, food, film and creative flair! It’s the oldest and largest multi-arts festival in the country and offers a diverse range of attractions. There are Sri-Lankan theatre productions of Shakespeare, extensive dance and music programmes for the party-lover, street art, literature and community events. Its imaginative territory knows no bounds, which is why for the locals of Perth, summer isn’t summer without the festival!

The colourful spectacle of the Sydney Mardi Gras. Image courtesy of Tourism Australia.

We’re back in Sydney once more for the annual Sydney Mardi Gras. It is the world’s premier gay and lesbian arts festival and includes the world famous nighttime parade through the very heart of Sydney, ending with the enormous harbour party. The festival kicks off on the 21^st February and lasts two weeks. With the organisers promising the  biggest and best Mardi Gras yet, there’s every reason not to miss this event!

Flights

Now spending Christmas in Australia might sound like a lovely idea, but it also sounds expensive, so here’s our tips for getting the cheapest flights available.

First of all, book now! The earlier you book the more you’ll save, don’t expect any late cheap deals, December to February is full tourist season so the airlines won’t be giving anything away. Same with hotels, leave it too long and it’ll be a case of taking whatever you can get.

Choose your dates carefully. Avoid booking flights too close to Christmas. For instance Emirates flying from London Heathrow to Sydney is £963.80 between the 9th and 28th of December, enabling you to be in Oz for Christmas, but book with the same airline between 19th December – 3 January and it’ll cost you £1,461.79. So just by being flexible with your dates and avoiding known busy periods, you can save up to £800.

Shop around. Competition is high so choose a few search engines such as skyscanner and travelsupermarket and compare prices. If you’re willing to be flexible with dates, you can usually find a bargain. Keep an eye on our flights to Australia page too, where we search the airlines every month to find the latest special offers and great deals.

So do something different this winter, spend it in the sun!

Got a little extra cash to splash? Read on for our ultimate luxury guide to staying and playing in Australia. 

ADELAIDE 

Adelaide is the home of the national food and wine festival; Tasting Australia which showcases the regions long history of wine production. For those with the discerning pallet this is the place to go. 

Live out your fairytale fantasies in this fabulous luxury hotel.

Thorngrove Manor Hotel, located 17 minutes from Adelaide is a stunning 5 star getaway ideal for couples or the individual interested in the local wine selection. The Manor is secluded with far reaching views and boasts baroque towers and fantastical turrets that will transport you to another world. Each suite has its own character and unique location within the Manor from the Queens Chamber through to the Observatory Suite. Each room comes with wireless broadband so you can enjoy the fantasy of medieval surroundings without being cut off from the real world beyond.   

If you prefer to be in the city, an alternative is The Sebel Playford. Situated in the attractive North Terrace area this is a luxury hotel in the heart of the city. For total opulence, go for the New York style split level loft suite which features a spa bath and views out over the city. 

When in Adelaide, one of the oldest wine producing regions in Australia there is no excuse for not visiting Bridge Water Mill where you can tour the vineyards and taste the wines produced there. Bridge Water Mill also has an award winning restaurant that offers the perfect marriage of contemporary French cuisine and fresh Australian produce paired perfectly with its own wines and prepared by Le Tu Thai, one of Australia’s most respected chefs.  

Alternatively, if you like to eat in the city there is the Top of the World. Offering exceptional seafood and international cuisine, this revolving restaurant is different to any other in the city. Book an evening meal and watch the stars come out above and below.   

Now, for the ultimate shopping experience, take a trip across to Rundle Mall. This is by far the largest shopping centres in the city with over 600 shops, 3 department stores and 15 arcades. If you prefer your shopping a little more exclusive, head on over to King William Road at Hyde Park where you will find all the big name boutiques and designer fashion stores.  

Now if you’ve had enough hustle and bustle you can take the short trip out to Glenelg beach. Just half an hour from Adelaide’s central business district by tram, this is a quiet beautiful retreat where you can enjoy the water sports or simply soak up the sun.    

SYDNEY 

Sydney is known for its glamour thanks largely to the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge and it is now officially more expensive to live in than New York City.  

Here you are spoilt for choice; there are a number of hotels throughout the city offering sumptuous suites with breathtaking views. Despite this abundance of luxury there are two hotels which stand out as being superior. Both the Park Hyatt and the Shangri-La have views out over the harbour, making them the perfect place for business or to simply relax in style.

The Premier Grand Harbour View Room boasts stunning views of the Harbour.

The Shangri-La Hotel, Sydney offers some of the most luxurious guest rooms and suites available. The Premier Grand Harbour View room has a 270 degree view of the harbour including unparalleled views over the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

 

 The Park Hyatt also has commanding views over the harbour and particularly over the Opera House. The rooms are luxurious but contemporary and all have the latest mod-cons. The Governor Suite looks out directly at the Opera House and has an astonishing six balconies and mineral water on request. The Governor suite starts from $815 per night.  

Now that you’ve made yourself at home, let’s go get something to eat. Tetsuya’s, one of the most exclusive restaurants in Sydney uses classic French techniques to bring you stunning Japanese cuisine. If you like your food luxurious then this is the place for you, the waiting list for a table is often more than a month.

The menu changes frequently so you can never be sure what will be on offer but it doesn’t really matter because with one of the best chefs in the world at the helm, every dish is superb. You will struggle to find this standard of food anywhere else.  

Sydney is also fantastic for shopping, take a trip to Bondi Markets and check out Australian design at its freshest. You will be able to see clothing and jewellery from up and coming designers as well as second hand and retro pieces. This is a must for anyone interested in fashion off the beaten track.  

If you feel more comfortable on the high street take a trip down to Elizabeth Street where you will find David Jones; the oldest department store in the world. For Australian and international designers as well as chic boutiques and a whole host of taste experiences move across to No1 Martin Place. The Galleries Victoria is your best bet for art and also hosts the largest book store in Sydney. 

For the ultimate way to experience Sydney why not climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Go for the twilight climb and you will find yourself reaching the summit a full 134 metres above the harbour as the sun sets, making it an experience you will never forget. What better way to experience one of the most famous cities on Earth. 

BRISBANE 

Brisbane is the third largest city in Australia with a population of 1.6 million but feels like a large town, you might get a bit lost but in Brisbane it is more likely to lead to discovery than panic.  

The Sofitel Brisbane is one of the most luxurious city centre hotels in the city, making it the ideal base for a city break. For absolute indulgence book the Club Opera Suite and enjoy panoramic city views as well as access to the Club Sofitel Lounge.

 While there, book yourself into the spa for a full pampering including a full range of massages and treatments including a jet lag detoxification treatment, ideal for getting over that long flight. 

If you like your accommodation a little more palatial there is the Conrad Treasury Hotel. Book a suite for an unforgettable stay in this heritage listed building where you can enjoy 18foot ceilings and a private balcony. On site there is a casino, 6 restaurants, 5 bars and constantly changing entertainment. It is hard to find a hotel this grand anywhere and the price reflects this.  

Dine in style in this romantic restaurant.

Okay, rested? Feel ready to get a bite to eat? Siggi’s is perhaps the most luxurious restaurant in Brisbane with a long history of fine dining. It is located in the old Port Office which was completed in 1880 and has now been Brisbane’s premier fine dining restaurant for twenty years. Here you will find exquisite food and unrivalled service from the professionals.

If you prefer your service a little more relaxed head on down to the Brisbane River where you will find Alchemy; arguably one of the best restaurants in the city. The head chef, Brad Jolly has won numerous awards and has worked with Marco Pierre White and Jamie Oliver. The menu is fresh and exciting, taking inspiration from local produce and the views out over the river. 

Brisbane is a place built on culture and architecture. While in the city you can see the work of renowned Australian artists in the Queensland Art Gallery. If you like your art more kinetic, pay a visit to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre where you can catch the ballet, opera or orchestra. There is always something going on.  

For shopping there is no better place than the Queen Street Mall. There are over 500 shops including the Wintergarden shopping Complex which is home to designer fashion, footwear and jewellery from both Australian and international designers. At the top of the mall is The Myers Centre, Brisbane’s largest shopping precinct.  

While in Brisbane take a catamaran out to Moreton Island, one of the world’s largest sand islands. There you can toboggan down the worlds largest sand dune, snorkel with rainbow fish and swim with water birds. You can even camp for the night and sleep out beneath the stars.

There are numerous tours that offer everything from treks, quad biking through to three day long camping holidays where you can explore the whole island. 
  

PERTH 

Perth is the perfect destination for any sun lover; the city enjoys more hours of sunshine than any other in the country and has the world’s largest inner city park to enjoy it in. 

Unwind in the generously sized rooms of the intercontinental hotel.

One of the best hotels in the city is the Perth Burswood, located within the Burswood Entertainment Complex you will have 5 restaurants, 6 bars, 2 pools, a spa, an 18 hole golf course and a casino to play with. All the rooms are contemporary and light with great views.

If you prefer to stay in the heart of the city then book a room at the Sheraton. The Presidential Suite, situated on the top floor, offers stunning views of the Perth skyline and the Swan River. The suite boasts a separate office, marble en-suite and two private balconies.  

Now for a bite to eat, and not just any bite: Jackson’s, a contemporary Australian restaurant is widely regarded as the best in Perth. Neal Jackson, the head chef, serves up the finest Australian lamb and an inspired vegetarian selection as well as a formidable selection of Australian wines. If you appreciate good food then this is a must.     

For your cultural needs head on over to the Perth Concert Hall, a massive 1,729 seat purpose built hall that often hosts acoustic music events. Alternatively His Majesty’s Theatre is the premium performing arts venue in Perth, the theatre forms part of a hotel with two resident companies; the West Australian Opera and West Australian Ballet. At His Majesty’s Theatre you will be able to see local, national and international companies performing.  

For shopping in Perth wander through London Court, an Elizabethan style arcade that is crammed full of little independent shops. Take a look around Raine Square Shopping Plaza, Forest Chase and for all the best boutiques visit King Street.

If you like your fashion with a label, go to Subiaco, a trendy area that hosts gourmet food stores and designer outlets.

Perth is a tourist friendly city, while it has gleaming multi story buildings and traffic jams this is on a smaller scale than most other cities. It is a city that can be negotiated for the most part on foot. There is the Swan River where sailing is popular and numerous parks to picnic in or simply relax and enjoy the weather.  

Being the sun capital of the world, Perth has plenty to offer in terms of beaches. Whether you like sunbathing, surfing, playing volleyball or watching the pros battle it out there is something for you. 
   

MELBOURNE 

Melbourne’s most successful export is Neighbours but don’t let that fool you, there is far more to it than Ramsey Street. 

The Crown Towers dominates the Melbourne skyline.

The Crown Towers is without a doubt the most luxurious hotel in Melbourne, it towers above the South Bank district, dominating the skyline. Book a Deluxe Suite for unparalleled luxury, located on floors 16 to 28. Each Suite has floor to ceiling windows that give a 180 degree view of either the city or Port Phillip Bay. You will not be disappointed by the views or the two; yes that’s two, 42 inch plasma TVs.

Guests have access to the Crown Spa, more than 40 restaurants, bars and cafés, luxury shopping including Prada, Burberry and Louis Vuitton, the Crown Entertainment Complex featuring cinemas, nightclubs, an indoor theme park and casino.  

If you want to venture out from your cocoon of opulence then head on over to Quaff, a modern restaurant that offers sumptuous Australian and European Cuisine. Head Chef John Psanis, the talent behind other successful Melbourne restaurants has created a fresh modern menu combined with an extensive wine list.  

If you want to immerse yourself in the local and national culture The National Gallery of Victoria hosts a range of exhibitions from fashion to prints right through to video and is home to the largest stain glass ceiling in the world. Melbourne is also filled with street art including sculpture, aboriginal art, murals, stencils and performance which can be found all over the city.   

For shopping Melbourne Central is the place to go with over 300 stores and an abundance of bars, restaurants and cafes in a modern architectural environment. Shot Tower Square houses a number of stores including the Metropolitan Museum of Arts Shop and the Shot Tower Museum.

In Albert Coates Lane you will find designer fashion labels from around the globe and world famous boutiques that bring fashion straight from the fashion capitals of Milan and Paris. If you prefer your fashion a bit more close to home take a look at Lonsdale St Building where local designers are showcased. 

And don’t forget that Melbourne, like everywhere else in Australia has plenty of beaches to keep the sun worshippers happy. 

Make the most of your year out!

Thinking of taking a gap year? If so then there is a whole host of things you can do to fill your time. You could bum around, play video games and get drunk, you could try to get a job (good luck) or you could take the opportunity to do something that might just change your life.

Taking a gap year abroad is an increasingly popular way to expand your horizons and gain those vital life skills that employers are looking for. There is no better place to do this than Australia; the home of Neighbours, Kylie Minogue and approximately 2900 species of spider.   

The Visa 

If you are between the ages of 18 and 30 you can apply for a Working Holiday Visa. This allows you to live and work in Australia for up to 365 days, that’s a stonking 8760 hours in a country where rain is the exception, not the rule. The visa costs £115 and there are a few rules; you must have £2500 of personal finance, be willing to undergo character checks and be in possession of a return ticket. For the complete lowdown on working visas visit our Australia visa guide. Fit the criteria? Good. Still interested? Of course you are. 

Getting There 

Once you have your visa there is the task of getting there. There are dozens of airlines offering a wide range of deals, the trick is to either book far in advance or try your luck with a last minute deal (you can often save yourself hundreds of pounds). A quick internet search will show return flights from Heathrow to Darwin via Singapore from £590 which, for a twenty two hour journey each way is a bargain. Check out our cheap flights to Australia section too where we scour the internet every month to find the best flight deals to Australia so you don’t have to!

There are alternatives such as the Oz Bus; this coach will take you all the way from the UK to Sydney, passing through 17 countries over 92 days. The trip costs £3999, slightly more than your average flight but on your way you will see some of the most beautiful sights in the world and have the opportunity to go on numerous day trips.

When travelling to Australia always remember to check what you can and cannot take into the country and obtain permits if necessary otherwise any prohibited items will be seized on arrival.  

On The Move 

As you must know by this point Australia is a big place, around 3 million square miles in fact so if you intend to see some of it, planning your route is important. Taking an internal flight is the quickest way to get from A to B but if you want to see more of the country there is an extensive rail network. The Ghan will take you from Darwin to Adelaide, stopping at Alice Springs along the way.

The Greyhound bus offers a cheap way to travel around Australia.

The Greyhound bus network covers Australia like a spider’s web and tickets can be bought based either on distance (ranging from 500km to 20,000km) or a specific route.

If you don’t quite feel up to finding your own way across the country there are numerous tour companies that will take you to see the sights. These are more expensive but remove the hassle of planning and potentially getting lost. As with everything else it’s best to shop around and do your research, you will quickly find who has a good reputation.

However you intend to get around, don’t be tempted to hitchhike, it is extremely dangerous and illegal in some areas; no one wants to be one of those statistics.   

Accommodation  

In Sydney alone there are around 100 hostels and this level of competition keeps prices low and standards fairly high which seems to be the case in every major city. For a shared room expect to pay in the region of 25 dollars per night or from 50 dollars for a private room. Chains include Nomad, Base Backpackers, VIP and YHA.

If you want your stay a little more comfortable Discovery Holiday Parks are similar to our Centre Parks, they will be more expensive than hostels but have activities to keep you entertained.

There are alternatives such as short stay apartments which can be rented from 2 weeks up to 3 months. The average price is around 750 dollars per week and the price goes down the longer you stay.

Working In Oz 

Unless you already know someone down under or are going as part of an exchange programme it is likely that you will need to find temporary work. The classic backpacker work of fruit picking is always available but the work is hard and poorly paid, there are other options though. Those with experience or skills will find work slightly easier than most but there are still plenty of jobs around. For bar or restaurant jobs just ask around or drop in your CV, you could also check for adverts on hostel notice boards. There are specialist backpacker agency websites such as www.seasonalwork.com.au and www.momentumconsulting.com.au.

One thing you do need to do as soon as you arrive is apply for a Tax File Number. Without it you will be taxed around 50 percent on your earnings.  

What To Do 

One thing on your to do list should be climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, this costs nearly 200 dollars if you are going during the day but is an experience you will never forget. The climb is done in teams of 14 and takes 3.5 hours. At the summit you will be 134 metres above the harbour and have spectacular 360 degree views including an unrivalled view of the Sydney Opera House.

The world famous Bondi Beach.

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world including the famous Bondi beach. Other top beaches include Bells Beach in Victoria, Hyams in New South Wales, Whitehaven in Queensland and Wineglass Bay in Tasmania. Whether you want to surf, play volley ball or just take in the sun there is a beach for you.

The Great Barrier Reef is another destination that should be on your list. This World Heritage Site is larger than the whole of the UK and home to over 2900 reefs, 1500 species of fish and 215 species of birds. 

Alternatively there is the Ningaloo Reef on the west coast, this is not as well known and less crowded than some of the main tourist areas around the GBR. At the Ningaloo Reef you can swim, snorkel and kayak.

Uluru (Ayres Rock), a World Heritage Sight and one of the most famous landmarks in the world is around 280 miles from Alice Springs. There is a frequent bus service which is often busy and best booked in advance. There is the option of climbing the 350 meter monolith but it is requested by the Aboriginal community that visitors do not. If you do decide to you should be in good health as the climb is steep and long. While there you can learn all about Dreamtime, the Aboriginal creation story.

Other geological wonders include Kings Canyon and Mt Olga. 

Are you ready to visit the country that brought us Skippy, Dame Edna and of course Steve Irwin? If so there is just one thing left to do – get up and get looking. The rest of your life is out there. 

For more information check out our guide to the best places to visit in Australia. Take a gander through our travel section for flight deals and accommodation ideas and sign up to our vibrant community section to ask questions of our experts and chat to other like-minded souls.

So just where do you choose to go when you visit Australia? It’s a vast and beautiful country with so many delights and wonders that many tourists simply don’t know where to start. So in order to do justice to this great country, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to visit in Australia, well we think they are the best places to visit anyway! There’s something for everyone in this list, from the adventurous explorer, to the shopaholic; from the car lover to the culture craver. So sit back and let us give you a brief glimpse of the best places Australia has to offer. And if this whets your appetite, check out our guide on getting to Australia which includes the best flight deals to Australia on offer at the moment. See how well we look after you!

1. Great Barrier Reef

Diving is just one way to explore this enchanting underwater world.

The Great Barrier Reef, situated in the Coral Sea off the coast of Queensland, is the largest coral reel in the world, encompassing 900 islands and stretching over a huge 2,600 kilometres. It’s so vast that it can even be seen from outer space!

The reef is now a World Heritage Site and home to a diverse range of life including whales, dolphins, porpoises, turtles, sea snakes, stingray, sharks and saltwater crocodiles, I’ve not even mentioned the numerous species of fish, frog or plant life either!

The present reef is thought to be around 6 to 8 thousand years old, but the reefs beginnings can be dated back to around 20,000 years ago.

The waters surrounding the reef are some of the clearest in the world, making it a popular destination for divers. Many cities along the Queensland coast offer daily boat trips to the reef and passengers who don’t fancy getting their feet wet can view the reef from one of many glass-bottomed boats or underwater observatories that cruise the seas.

Best times to go are April through to November.

2. Sydney Harbour

New Years Eve fireworks across Sydney Harbour.

Sydney was the location of the first European settlement in Australia and we’ve loved it ever since! This natural harbour is where you can find the iconic Sydney Opera House and magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The best time of year to visit is New Year when you can witness the breathtaking sight of the world famous and spectacular New Years Eve Fireworks.

Sydney Opera House is easily accessed on Bennelong Point, Sydney Harbour and has become one of the classic symbols of Australia. Its structure won the architect Jorn Utzon architecture’s highest honour of the Pritzker Prize. He described the Opera House as “a symbol for not only a city, but a whole country and continent.�

The Opera House consists of one concert hall, two theatres, a playhouse, a studio, the Utzon room and the Forecourt as well as a restaurant, a café and a bar. Tours are given daily between 9am and 5pm.

Sydney Harbour Bridge spans the central business unit of Sydney and the North Shore. It’s an impressive steel arch structure nicknamed ‘The Coathanger’ and was designed and built in Northumberland! It carries 7 lanes of traffic, 2 railway tracks, 1 footpath and 1 cycle lane.

Whilst you can drive across the bridge, there is a toll so beware! However what better way to see the bridge up close and personal than by walking across it? Signs direct pedestrians to a flight of steps on which the bridge can be accessed, there is also a lift from the Botanic Gardens or the Circular Quay.

3. Tasmania

One of Tasmania's breaktakingly stunning backdrops.

Tasmania is an island on the southernmost tip of Australia, separated from the mainland by the Bass Strait. It has been nicknamed the ‘Island of Inspiration’ because of the natural, unspoilt beauty it encompasses.

The island is 364 km long by 306 km wide and has a population of 500,000. Many natural wonders can be seen on the island, including the columns known as the ‘organ pipes’ on Mount Wellington and the quartzite formed ridges such as those on Frenchman’s Cap. Rare rock formations can also been seen, as well as continental granites and magnificent caves.

Tasmania is the most mountaineous region of Australia and its tallest mountain, Mount Ossa, can be found in the world famous Cradle Mountain range. Other parts of Tasmania are heavily forested and are home to some of the world’s last temperate rain forests in the Southern Hemisphere. It’s also dotted with beautiful waterfalls and flowing rivers.

It is here where you will find the Great Oyster Bay, boasting a magnificent view of the surrounding peninsulas. Of its wildlife you will no doubt have heard of the great Tasmanian Tiger, now sadly extinct although there have been unconfirmed sightings in Tasmania so you never know, it’s worth taking your camcorder just in case! The Tasmanian Devil might be easier to find, however do take care, these little devils pack a an evil bite! Birds are frogs are also in great abundance on the island, making it a wildlife spotter’s paradise!

Best time to visit is November through to March to avoid the heat of the summer.

4. Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia's cosmopolitan hub.

Melbourne is the largest city in the state of Victoria and the second most populated city in Australia. It’s characterised by many grand civic buildings including Parliament House, Old Melbourne Gaol, the State Library, Melbourne Town Hall and many others, all funded by the Victoria gold rush in the 1850s.

Recently Melbourne has become famous for its street art which began as graffiti in the 1970s and has now become big business with many art galleries bidding to display photos and stencil art by the young artists. So popular has it become that there is now a Melbourne Stencil Festival every year. Some of the best places to see original street art are in the areas of Abbotsford, Brunswick, Richmond, South Yarra and Collingwood among others. See the Stencil Fest for more information.

Melbourne is not known as the country’s shopping capital for nothing, from budget shoppers to designer addicts, there is something here for everyone! The Arts Centre in the Southbank holds a Sunday Market that showcases over 150 stalls of the finest artisans, here you really will find a gift for that someone who has everything. Queen Victoria Markets are a must for fresh fruit and veg as well as bargain clothing and bags and the atmosphere of the market is just not to be missed! For something more classy and upmarket, head for the Royal Arcade, Melbourne’s oldest shopping arcade or the Block Arcade which is based on those of Paris, London and Milan and practically oozes elegance! Chinatown is always buzzing with life and is home to the very best Chinese restaurants as well as Chinese cinema and a museum and it hosts many events.

In the middle of all these shops you’ll find numerous parks and gardens in which you can rest and put your feet up whilst marveling at the tree-lined avenues and landscaped vistas.

Best time to visit is said to be March when the evenings are still warm.

 5. Barossa

Barossa is the wine growing region of Australia.

Barossa is one of the major wine producing regions of Australia. It benefits from the hot climate of  South Australia, being only 60km northeast of Adelaide. It also has a very diverse history that is reflected in its three major towns.

Tanunda is regarded as the most German influenced as it was first populated by German settlers in the 1840s and the city still retains many German traits. Angaston, by contrast, is typically English, first being populated by Cornish miners. Nuriootpa was influenced by both Britain and Germany and is regarded as the most vibrant of the three.

The area is characterized by the fields of vines and viticulture is the main employment and income of the area. A fact that is celebrated in the yearly Vintage Festival held every April for a week. The event is marked with carnivals, bands, dancing, food and wine tasting, making April the best time of year to visit this area!

Many big name wine brands come from this region including Wolf Blass, Yalumba, Orlando and others. The area boasts some of the oldest Shiraz vines in the world but other varities include Riesling, Semillion, Grenache and Cabernet Sauvignon. Many wineries are open for tastings and there are organized tours that operate out of Adelaide 

As well as sampling the wine, the food is also excellent, being a combination of traditional German heritage food and food made with fresh, local produce. After all that wining and dining, why not take in some of the areas many antique shops and art galleries too.

6. Uluru

Uluru is one of the iconic symbols of Australia.

Formerly Ayres Rock, this has to be one of the best known sights of Australia! Uluru is situated in the so called Red Centre in Northern Australia and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Uluru measures a staggering 348 metres from top to bottom and has a circumference of 9.4 km. It also extends approximately 1.5 miles underground and this is the heart of what the Aborigines call their ‘dreamtime’ and is what makes this site so sacred to them. They believe that the space underneath Uluru is actually hollow and contains the spirits of their ancestors.

Its structure is a single monolith, one of the biggest of its kind (disputes are ongoing as to whether it is Uluru that can claim the biggest monolith or Mount Augustus). It’s made of sandstone which changes its colour from orange, to blue, violet or red during sunset and sunrise. There is a sunrise viewing point on the road around Uluru and also a sunset viewing point.

Climbing Uluru is frowned upon and there are signs discouraging visitors from doing so, but you can walk around the base which takes from 2 to 4 hours. There are numerous other walks you can do around Kata Tjuta, including the Valley of the Winds walk, a spectacular looped walk from two lookouts in Kata Tjura.

The best time to visit is July, August and September when the weather offers a more temperate climate.

7. The Great Ocean Road

One of the most exhilarating drives of your life!

This road runs along the southern coast of Australia. 250km by length it runs from the Bellarine Peninsula to Warrnambool.

Built in 1930 in memory of fallen soldiers it takes in some of the most magnificent scenery in Australia. It is a car drivers dream, with its winding cliff top roads being featured in many films and television programmes, including many car advertisements. If you love driving, you’ll love this! One of the most scenic parts of the road is the section in Port Cambell National Park where you can view some of the major rock formations, the famous of which are the Twelve Apostles.

There are many walks just off the road where you can get out and enjoy the surrounding countryside, including the Surf Coast Walk and the Great Ocean Walk.

If you don’t fancy doing it by car, or you don’t trust the driver(!) there are many bus tours that run from Apollo Bay and Warrnambool. You can even see the road from the air with one of the many helicopter tours from the visitors centre at the Twelve Apostles near Port Campbell.

You can drive the route in a day, but you’d be wise to allow two so that you can make a few stops along the way. There are passing places for slower vehicles to pull into and allow the faster cars to overtake, so if you notice a queue forming behind you, do pull over and let them get ahead!

Best time to go, probably spring and autumn when the scenery is at its best.

8. Fraser Island

The white sandy beaches of Fraser Island.

Fraser Island is the biggest sand island in world at 122 km long and the only place where sand and rain forest live in harmony. It is a World Heritage Site, making it a precious part of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.

Imagine long stretches of interrupted white beaches, clear blue lakes, ancient rainforests and striking sand cliffs. It is also home to many endangered and rare animal and plant species including dugongs, turtles, curlews, ferns, mangrove colonies etc. Its wetlands have been listed by the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance and are highly protected. Pure bred dingoes are also on the island, though visitors are advised not to feed them as they are highly dangerous.

Lake McKenzie is one of the most famous of the lakes on the island. It has crystal blue waters and perfect white sands. However with fame comes popularity and it can get crowded in the middle of the day during peak season.

Bird lovers will be in paradise as Fraser Island is home to over 300 species of bird, including many rare coastal birds such as brahminy kites and pied oyster catchers. The ground parrot also resides here along with honey-eaters and cockatoos.

The whale spotters might catch a glimpse of humpback whales migrating from Antartica between July and August or the occasional Tiger Shark which makes the inviting seas not so inviting for bathers!

One of the best things to do is hire your own 4WD and explore the island at your leisure. You can pitch up a camping place on the beach, although you will need a permit. Alternatively you could choose the Youth Hostel or one of the many lodges.

9. Daintree Rain Forest and Cape Tribulation

Cape Tribulation, where rainforest meets sandy beaches.

Daintree National Park is about 3 hours north of Cairns. Within the park you’ll find one of the oldest rain forests in world, a mere 135 million years old! It ends at Cape Tribulation where the Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef meet.

Cape Tribulation, so called by Captain Cook because of all the troubles he encountered there, is now a popular destination for student travellers and backpackers and there is plenty of adventure still to be had here, whether it’s in the form of kayaking, snorkelling or climbing.

The Daintree Rainforest also contains smatterings of little residential dwellings and some of the inhabitents of these villages make a living by offering tours around their land to visitors. You may be lucky enough to spot a cassowary whilst you are there. If you want to venture out alone, there are many trails throughout the forest, including aerial walkways for the brave!

The Park contains the highest number of plant and animal species that are rare or threatened. You can find out more about them by using one of the interactive rainforest guided walks that are available.

It’s also the ideal place to try many exotic fruits with such curious sounding names as the Lemon Meringue Pie fruit and the Chocolate Pudding fruit. These fruits cannot be transported though because of their fragile states and in any case, it’s best to eat them fresh, straight off the tree!

Riverboat hiring is also popular so that visitors can spot one of the crocodiles on the banks of the Daintree River.

You can get there by car or bus from Cairns and Port Douglas, but for the energetic amongst you there are also cycle trails.

10. Kakadu National Park

The striking beauty that is Kakadu National Park.

Kakadu National Park is the largest national park in Australia and is situated in the north east corner of the Northern Territory. There is something for everyone here, from outback adventure and nature activities to aboriginal culture.

The park is ideal of those wishing to know more about Aboriginal culture as it contains the highest number of aboriginal rock art sites in the world, the most famous of which are at Nourlangie Rock and Ubirr.

The Aboriginal people have occupied this area for at least 40 000 years and there still remains wholly aboriginal land such as Arnhem Land, steeped in aboriginal culture and history and also home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Kakadu Park is certainly a wildlife haven with no less than 68 species of mammal, 120 reptiles, 26 frog species, 10,000 insect species, 290 bird species and 2,000 types of plant. There are still species yet to be discovered.

The popular wetlands provide the most visual attractions, filled with sleepy saltwater crocodiles and colonies of herons. Feral horses, pigs and water buffalo can all be spotted here.

The landscape also has many treats in store, including the spectacular twin falls in Arnhem Lane; Yellow Water, the famous billabong that is literally crammed with wildlife and Gunlow Plunge Pool which combines beautiful waterfalls with a crystal clear and cool plunge pool.

Best time to visit is October to December or April to June when the weather is cooler and the wildlife more abundant.

If you’ve ever visited these sights and want to share your experiences with us, please do so by joining our vibrant community and posting your experiences on your very own blog! You can also comment on this article and add your own recommendations for the top ten places to see in Australia.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Flinders Ranges

If you were asked to list the most famous Australian attractions I’d like to hedge a bet that the Flinders Ranges and Outback wouldn’t make your top 5.  Yet this is one of the world’s oldest landscapes and boasts a wealth of history and natural attractions.  Clear waterholes, thermal springs, abundant bird life, remarkable flora and fauna, incredible fossils all set amongst the backdrop of red desert sands and spectacular gorges make the Flinders Ranges an unmissable part of the Australian experience!

Situated just 3 hours drive north of Adelaide, the Flinders Ranges are described as South Australia’s Gateway to the Outback.  So let us give you a brief tour of this most diverse of regions, taking in many of the sights and wonders as we go along.

History

The Flinders Ranges go back to when Australia was still attached to Antarctica and this region was covered by a huge inland sea dotted with icebergs and teeming with reptilian sea monsters that would put Godzilla to shame!  It was a vast and hostile territory, experiencing freezing conditions and long periods of polar darkness.  The Outback itself was home to sprawling forests dominated by dinosaurs, whilst the sea was patrolled by the plesiosaur, a huge long-necked sea creature that bore an uncanny resemblance to the Loch Ness monster.

It was in this region that scientists, just last year, discovered one of the world’s oldest reefs.  The reef, named Oodnaminta Reef by scientists is 10 times higher than the Great Barrier Reef and 80 million years older than the oldest known reef.  But unlike the Great Barrier Reef, it is not made up of corals, but rather a complex organism system and it now possesses fossil evidence of the earliest examples of primitive life.  Today it remains home to one of the world’s oldest cultures, the Aborigines.

What to see

The Aboriginal Dreaming Tour is a 2 day drive that will take you through Adnyamathanha land to explore 16,000 year old rock carvings and on to Iga Warta where a warm welcome by the people awaits you.  There you will learn about the Aboriginal beliefs and culture.  The tour includes an overnight stay in modern accommodation.

For the environmentally aware tourist there is an eco cruise around the tip of Spencer Gulf on board a luxury pontoon boat.  The cruise takes in the tranquility of the Gulf waters, which is home to an abundance of bird and marine life.  The trip passes through Redbank Cliffs, the historic Old Salt Works and the original Port Augusta wharf and barges.  For more information on the tour visit  Augusta Westside Cruises.

If you prefer dry land then the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden could be just the ticket!  Spread over 200 hectares this conservation area provides an extensive range of walking tracks where the natural flora can be enjoyed against the spectacular backdrop of the Flinders Ranges.  It also has what is possibly the world’s largest garden of desert-loving plants.  Visit Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens.

Wilpena Pound

The staggering natural formation of Wilpena Pound.

A trip to the Flinders Ranges would not be complete without visiting the huge natural rock amphitheatre that is Wilpena Pound.  Amassing a huge 83 square kilometres of rock this magnificent showpiece was formed over 640 million years ago by sedimentary deposits under the sea.  The deposits were folded into mountains whilst millions of years of erosion have resulted in the amazing chiseled formation that can be seen today.

In order to truly appreciate the wonder of this huge natural structure, a trip by air is recommended.  Flights range from 20 minutes to a couple of hours and are available from both Wilpena Pound Resort and Rawnsley Park Station.  However for those wishing to keep their feet firmly on terra firma, there are numerous trails to explore around the site that take in giant red river gums, wild flowers, rocky bluffs, aboriginal rock art sites and sheer quartzite cliffs.

Arkaroola Wildnerness Sanctuary

This award winning sanctuary offers active visitors rugged mountain scenery, towering granite peaks, breathtaking gorges and spectacular waterholes which attract more than 16. varieties of bird life, including the endangered yellow-footed rock wallaby.  To truly appreciate these magnificient surroundings we recommend the Ridgetop Tour, an amazing 4 wheel-drive adventure that takes brave participants along razor-back ridges and across the peaks of Flinders Ranges’ most rugged mountains to the climax at Sillers Lookout.  From here the magnificient views stretch across the white expanse of Lake Frome to the desert beyond.  And should you fancy a bit of star gazing you’re in for a treat, because Arkaroola boasts some of the best conditions for viewing the night skies in the Southern Hemisphere and is home to one of Australia’s largest privately-owned observatories.  Visit Arkaroola for more information.

Coober Pedy

One of the world’s largest supplies of commercial opal comes from the 70 opal fields of Coober Pedy.  Located 846 kms north of Adelaide and 685 kms south of Alice Springs, Coober Pedy has been an opal-mining town since the gems were first discovered there on February 1, 1915.  Today it remains the largest producer of opal in the world and offers visitors a fascinating insight into life in an Outback mining centre.  One of the more unusual features of Coober Pedy are the many underground homes or dugouts, believed to have been introduced by soldiers returning from the trenches of WWI, to escape the searing summer temperatures, dust storms and cold winter nights.  Nearly 60% of its inhabitants still reside in these cave dwellings.

One of the many caves open in Coober Pedy.

Arid Zone Tours offers visitors the chance to see parts of Coober Pedy that are off the tourist map.  You can choose from their Town Tours, that takes the visitor into the town to visit one of the dugouts and an underground church before heading into the ’suburbs’ to get a taste of the real Coober Pedy.   If you have a little more time, the Breakaway Tours heads off to what used to be part of Flinders Ranges but have been broken away by the inland sea that used to cover the area between 60 – 120 million years ago.  So stunning is the landscape here that it is a popular destination for many movie producers.  Painted Desert Tours lets you experience the spell-bindingly colourful natural display of the Painted Desert.   Finally the Lake Eyre Tour takes you through the harsh and unforgiving climate of the Outback to Lake Eyre, the largest dry salt lake in Australia.  Merv Richards from Arid Zone Tours has also offered a 10% discount for anyone booking who quotes this website!  So to take advantage of this offer and for more information on the Arid Zone Tours go to www.cooberpedy.info.

The Old Timers’ Mine and Museum is the town’s most popular tourist attraction, giving visitors the opportunity to see three large opal seams in a mine dating back to 1916.

Tours of Flinders Ranges

Sunsets, Saddles and Shiraz

For the truly adventurous why not try your hand at cattle droving?  This exciting 2 day tour teams you up with expert drovers who will soon have you handling your horse like a pro!  This is a unique opportunity to see the beauty of the Outback on horseback as you explore the desert landscapes and sandy creek beds.  Plus you get to sleep under the stars as a true cattle drover would do!  But unlike most cattle drovers, you get to eat gourmet, with all food and drink provided, plus a one-night stay in the luxurious and award winning Prairie Hotel.  Book your tour now!

Camel Safaris

If you fancy seeing the Flingers Ranges from atop one of our many humped friends, then there are several camel safaris you can book.

Pichi Richi Camel Tours is just one of them.  Located in native bush land between Devil’s Peak and the Dutchman Range escarpment near the town of Quorn.  Their camel safaris are tailor made and can last from half a day to four days.  They also have a romantic “Camel to Candlelight” dinner tour.  www.pichirichicameltours.com.

Camel safaris offer a unique way to see Flinders Ranges

Outback Camel Safaris is a four day trek that takes in the ecology, history and cultural heritage of the Outback.  Local historian and Phil Gee is your tour guide.  Tours depart from William Creek on Thursdays between April and November.  www.austcamel.com.au.

4 WD Tours.

If you prefer a more conventional way of getting around you may prefer some of these tours.  Although be warned, some of the terrain is very rugged, so be prepared for a bumpy ride!

Outback Mail Run allows you to follow the ‘postman’ as he delivers post to Oodnadatta, William Creek and other remote cattle stations.  The 12 hour tour takes you across diverse country including gibber plains, red sand hills and inland sea beds.  The tour starts from the Underground Bookshop in Coober Pedy at 9am every Monday and Thursday.  Book here.

Desert Diversity is a one day tour that takes in the famous Dog Fence, designed to prevent dingoes from travelling between cattle country in the north to sheep country in the south.  It stretches over the treeless moon plains into a spectacular landscape that features exposed layers of sedimentary sandstone.  www.desertdiversity.com.

Flights

There are altogether more smoother ways to get around Flinders Ranges and that’s by air.  Many flights allow you to take in some of the most spectacular sights that can only really be appreciated from the air.

Wrights Air offers a range of scenic flights from just one hour to a full day.  Itineraries include Halligan Point, Belt Bay, Silcrete Island, Warburton Groove, Neales River Delta, Dalhousie Hot Springs, Anna Creek, Painted Hills and more.  Visit www.wrightsair.com.au.

Or if you wish to use your legs, Down ‘N Dirty is a four hour tour that allows visitors into the very heart of Coober Pedy.  Don your hard hats, grab your torches and hand picks and prepare to descend into a working opal mine to see if you can win the challenge to ‘find your fortune’.  www.desertcave.com.au.

Getting Around

Flinders Ranges are easily accessible by road from Adelaide.  Daily coach services also depart from the State Capital to selected towns throughout the region.  Scheduled flights are also available to Coober Pedy by Regional Express whilst Sharp Airlines offers scheduled flights to Port Augusta.  The legendary Ghan train service also runs through Port Augusta and the Outback on its journeys between Adelaide and Darwin.

When to go

The best time to visit the Flinders Ranges is during the Australian Spring (Sept – Nov) when the landscape becomes a spectacular blanket of brightly coloured wildflowers.  Nearly half of all South Australia’s plant species can be found in this rugged and beautiful terrain.  The abundance of wildlife, especially bird life, is also a nature lovers dream.

Where to Stay

Port Augusta

So called the Crossroads of Australia as it has routes joining the state capital to Flinders Ranges, Alice Springs, Perth and Whyalla making it the ideal base from which to explore the treasures of the area.  It also offers a number of attractions of its own including displays on Aboriginal Dreamtime, European settlement, regional geology, mining and lots more.

Rawnsley Park Station

Rawnsley Park Station is located on part of the southern wall of Wilpena Pound and offers accommodation options suitable for every budget, including its 8 award winning eco-villas.  www.rawnsleypark.com.au.

Wilpena Pound Resort

The resort includes a caravan park and a campground for our budget conscious travellers, with all modern conveniences including a swimming pool, bistro, bar and beer garden, licensed restaurant, general store and visitor information centre.  www.wilpenapound.com.au.

Angorichina Station

This charming homestead has been run by Ian and Di Fargher’s family for four generations.  Guests here can expect genuine Outback hospitality with delicious home cooked meals on offer.  There are two guest rooms sleeping up to 2 guests each, giving this homestead a cosy and relaxed atmosphere.  Guests can also take advantage of the many activities on offer, including a 4 wheel drive tour, a guided walk of the Flinders Rangers and spectacular scenic flights.  www.angorichinastation.com.

Arkaba Station

There are five guest bedrooms in this 1850’s homestead, offering guests a taste of classic Australian country hospitality while a few ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ touches ensure comfort, style and a truly memorable experience.    The homestead’s outdoor living areas and the swimming pool boast enviable views of the magnificent Elders Range.  The station has recently undergone complete renovation.  www.arkabastation.com.

North Bundaleer

Hosts Malcolm and Marianne Booth offer indulgent accommodation in this historic homestead.  Four beautifully appointed bedrooms offer a real sense of occasion.  http://www.northbundaleer.com.au/.

For more information on the Flinders Ranges go to www.southaustralia.com.

Stressed hedge fund managers and pop idols whose singles sink faster than the Titanic no doubt dream about escaping to places like Flinders Island. As well as long, white sandy beaches the island comes with fabulously evocative names: Trousers Point Beach and Killiecrankie Bay are names that can make you stare at a map and wonder what’s there.

Escape to the white sandy beaches of Flinders Island

If you happen to have released a stinker of a song lately you might be thankful to know it’s easy to get acquainted with this get-away. The flight from Launceston to Whitemark takes just 40 minutes or on a Monday you could put your car on the ferry out of Bridport and take this slow boat to the island.

Flinders Island is the largest (about 70 km long by 35 km wide) of the 52 islands in the Furneaux Group in eastern Bass Strait. Around 900 people live here. Farming and fishing are important industries but this island retains its own call of the wild. The mutton birds returning from their sojourn to the Arctic still delight in the long, deserted beaches as much as any visitor.

The waters off the island are rich with fish and shipwrecks (65 of them). Some may have been caused by the wild coast as much as the first European inhabitants, the Straitsmen, who reportedly dabbled in piracy. The welcome these days is far friendlier, which is just as well as there is plenty to do.

Flinder Island Adventures

Flinders Island Adventures began sea charter operations 20 years ago when owners James and Lindsay Luddington arranged fishing holidays and game fishing. The company expanded onto land about 13 years ago. They offer guided walking holidays, 4WD tours, and touring packages. These days the fishing adventures are aboard the 10-metre express cruiser Strait Lady. The variety of their adventures is a snap shot of the island’s appeal.

A three-day/two-night Discover the Best of Flinders Island package will take you by 4WD to secluded coves and up into the island’s central mountain range (the Strzelecki Range is the spine of Flinders Island). There is also a 4WD day tour and packages for special interest groups based on the wildflowers and bird watching.

www.flindersisland.com.au

Vistas on Trousers Point

Relax and unwind on Trousers Point Resort

Check in here for an escape from whatever world you have come from. There are 40,000 acres of national park on three sides of the eight deluxe suites. Views to Trousers Point Beach complete the square. The property’s closest neighbours are Mount Strzelecki, Flinders Island’s highest peak, and the prolific local wildlife.

They’re an easy going lot and never rush to make judgements about visitors who spend an afternoon in the spa on a viewing deck. Massages are also available here. And for those who need to justify the hours spent with a masseuse or the spa there is a gym, mountain bikes and fishing gear to play with first.

Ken Stockton and partner Carolyn Dawe took over this property, formerly Healing Dreams, in December 2008. Ken is a chef and together the couple runs Vistas Cafe during the day. Come evening Ken rustles up the toque blanche for Chappell’s Restaurant which traffics intimate fine dining and views of Mount Chappell Island. House specials include a $49 three-course set menu and a $70 six-course degustation menu.

Much of the food comes with local flavour. Organic fruit and vegies are grown on the property. The lamb is from down the road. The seafood comes from the preposterously rich clean and blue waters seen from all the suites.

An introductory rate of $145 per night per suite (for two people) including continental breakfast is running until Easter (2009). The price includes use of all facilities and a welcome drink and fruit plate in the room. After Easter the rates is$185 per night with breakfast.

A Produce Day is held from 9am-1pm on Sundays. Local foods as well as the works of the island’s artists are for sale.

www.vistasontrouserspoint.com.au

Strzelecki National Park

The national park is a safe containing some of the island’s jewels including fabulous views from Mt Strzelecki. The park also helps safeguard some history of the Aboriginal communities and white settlers, and local flora and fauna. Wombats, potoroos and threatened bird species occur in the park, including the swift parrot, forty-spotted pardalote, grey-tailed tattler, and the hooded plover.

You'll get some stunning views from the peak of Mount Strzlecki

There are a number of walks in the park. The Strzelecki Peak (756 metres) Track is about three kilometres. The return walk from Trousers Point Road through wooded gullies takes about five hours. The Circuit of Trousers Point takes about two hours. There are also coastal walks that require overnight camping.

www.parks.tas.gov.au

Unavale Vineyard

The first vines on this three-hectare vineyard were planted in 1999. “The weather’s been a trial but we’ve lived and learnt,” says Bev Watson who with husband Roger owns the vineyard, the only commercial one on the island.

They’ve been selling wines including riesling, chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir and sauvignon blanc since 2004. The whole winemaking process occurs on the island. The Watsons typically produce about 200 cases of wine but more is expected this year. They are going to need every drop they can produce as wine critic James Halliday recently rated the Unavale Sauvignon Blanc under his ‘Best of Best’ in the recent edition of his Wine Companion, awarding the wine 94 points out of 100.

Unavale is four kilometres from the village of Lady Barron, at the base of the Strzelecki Range. Most of the wines sales occur at the cellar door.

When you think of Australia you think of Sydney. Bursting with character and vibrancy, this sub-tropical city on the shores of the Pacific Ocean offers a unique blend of accessible attractions and activities. In this video we’ll show 3 ways to spend your some time strolling in the city.

Right across Australia, eco-tourism experiences are gaining unprecedented popularity. More and more travellers are seeking out eco-friendy holidays and being inspired to make a difference. Below are some suggestions for a fabulous and eco-friendly holiday in Australia…

Stunning Wilson island on the Great Barrier Reef

Gourmet Traveller awards Queensland’s Wilson Island best eco-tourism experience
A stunning dot in the Great Barrier Reef, Wilson Island is raising its reputation as an eco experience not to be missed, having taken out the highly coveted accolade of Best Eco-Tourism Experience at the annual Gourmet Traveller Awards.

A pin-up for sustainable holidays, guests at the deluxe tented camp, which cater for a maximum of 12, share the remote coral cay with turtles and birds, and an ocean teeming with exotic sea life. To ensure the island’s natives are not impacted by tourism activity, for one month a year (late January to the end of February) Wilson Island is closed to humans so wedge-tailed shearwater mutton bird chicks can hatch in peace.

Once the mutton birds have hatched and taken to the sky, the islands human visitors return to the living conditions which are suitably eco-chic: solar-powered showers, designer tents and nature in all its glory.

Luxurious Wolgan Valley Resort helps even the greenest guest breathe easily!
Construction of the hotly anticipated Wolgan Valley Resort by Emirates Group in the heart of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area is 85 per cent complete and as expected, has bespoke design and cultural eco initiatives to catch the sophisticated traveller’s attention.

The popular ecological theories of localisation are being employed at Wolgan Valley, with 25,000 native trees and plants being planted around the resort. They are also committed to a 100-mile radius food and beverage philosophy with regional, seasonal and where possible, organic produce. The bordering districts of Mudgee and Orange have a bountiful supply of delicious products such fruits, nuts, cheeses, olive oils, honeys and wines from passionate local producers.

In addition, the Resort is working with the local community of artists, potterers, craftsmen, furniture makers, blacksmiths and glass artists to add to the resorts aesthetics and provide stimulus to the local economy.

The wildlife haven of Wolgan Valley

Working with the University of Western Sydney on a biodiversity research study, Wolgan Valley is set to be one of the shining lights of the eco-tourism industry. The two year program has involved extensive site investigations, habitat assessment and vegetation surveys, ongoing monitoring of water quality and studies on wildlife species and the effects of creating feral-free environments through the use of feral-exclusion fencing.

Escape, rest and revitalise at the Harmony Hill Wellness and Organic Retreat
Located in southern Tasmania, Harmony Hill is set on 42 acres atop a picturesque mountain in idyllic Margate, just 25 minutes drive from Hobart.  Expected to open in late August, the $1.2 million Retreat offers a holistic health experience and will feature five spa treatment rooms and two double spa accommodation cottages.

Using solar energy, rain water collection and its own wetland to purify grey water and recycle it, the Retreat ensures there is minimal waste output. To complete the eco experience, the Retreat focuses on alternative therapies that offer a holistic health experience. In particular, all natural therapy techniques and treatments utilise 100% Australian Certified Organic Harmony Harvest products that are made on site by retreats owners.

The unspoilt landscape of Margate, Tasmania

Holiday to protect the Cobourg Peninsula in the NT
The Cobourg Peninsula – a world away from the busy city streets of metropolitan Australia – is located at the tip of the Northern Territory, forming part of the spectacular Arnhem Land wilderness area.

The area is well known for its strong Aboriginal culture, towering escarpments, wild coastline, savannah woodlands, wetlands and wildlife. Surrounding the local cultural and natural beauty is the crystal clear waters of the Peninsula that swarm with marine life, which while being distanced from bustling Australian cities, face their own unique issues.

The wilderness of the Coburg Peninsula

For holiday makers looking to give something back to the environment, the Naturewise Cobourg Peninsula experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in essential coastline and habitat regeneration projects.  Working with conservation volunteers to assist the local coast care community, traveller’s can get hands on and participate in debris surveys and erosion control at various beach locations around the Peninsula.

Staying in authentic Aboriginal owned and operated accommodation at Wilgi Outstation, this five day conservation holiday is one not to be missed!

Eco view of giants of the deep
A day aboard the Perry family’s whale watching charter the Quick Cat II is an eco friendly, family affair. The Perry family, pioneers of the Hervey Bay whale watching industry, have partnered with Fraser Island’s Kingfisher Bay Resort to develop a range of eco-accredited half day tours from Fraser Island to Platypus Bay – an area well know as a favourite of migratory whales.

Quick Cat II is equipped with a hydrophone, allowing guests to listen to the live underwater sounds of the male humpback composers and an underwater viewing camera, which beams images onto screens around the boat from August to October while the whales are in the area.

Whale watching is a fascinating experience for the whole family

Broome is a tropical paradise set between an area known as the Kimberley and the Indian Ocean. A rich history of pearling has shaped the town but there’s so much more to it than that so relax, enjoy and step into Broome Time!