Let's Visit Australia

Like America, the Australian national history is short (and rowdy). Perhaps for this reason the Australians, like many Americans, are a people ready to welcome strangers with an open hand and broad smile, no questions asked. They like to play around with their own lively disposition and vernacular (Australian slang dictionary). One afternoon down under amongst friendly, helpful, vigorous Australians is usually enough to charm any visitor. Now let's see what we can expect in some of the cities and hotels.

Sydney Hotels

Fogged out Sydney-skyscrapers peeking out

Sydney is built around a beautiful natural harbour, with much of the foreshore being dedicated as National Park. Easy walking trails abound, and some of the best views of the city can be had from the heights around Vaucluse (on the route of the blue Bondi & Bay Explorer) or from Bradley's Head, near Taronga Zoo. But you don't have to just look at the harbour from the shore, because Sydney is well-served by a wide variety of excellent harbour cruises and ferry services.

From Five Star world-class hotels, to intimate getaways and retreats, a diverse range of Sydney's accommodation awaits. Sydney is packed with a vast variety of restaurants that will ensure a wonderful fine dining experience. Wander down to Sydney's Darling Harbour and The Rocks area for some of the best shopping in Australia, or celebrate your visit on Sydney Harbour with Sydney Ferries or an extravagant Sydney Harbor Cruise.
----------

Melbourne Hotels

Melbourne city dining

Melbourne is a city of neighborhoods. Italian or Chinese, groovy or chic, bohemian or beachside—Melbourne has them all. Each has its own character instilled by the type of people who live and work there—émigrés from all over the world who have brought their customs, beliefs, businesses, food, art and style to the city. Melbourne has something for everyone: family fare, local and international art, countless shops, multicultural dining, Australian and Aboriginal history, spectator sports and vibrant nightlife. Get your bearings on the free City Circle Tram loop around the city. For unique attractions, head to Healesville Sanctuary to see local animal species, or take the Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the Royal Botanical Gardens. Make a side trip to a national park to enjoy the area's rugged beauty.
----------

Brisbane Hotels

Brisbane's Chinatown and Duncan Mall

Fresh experiences, fresh adventures and a fresh approach to life: Brisbane is a traveller's delight. Queensland’s state capital is Australia’s third-largest city. Visitors can join locals and see it all from the top of Mount Coot-tha or cruise the Brisbane River to South Bank’s sandy beach on the City Cat. For a different take on the city, explore Queensland culture at the new Gallery of Modern Art or get up close with a local at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, home to koalas and kangaroos. For a peek at the past, visit the Windmill and Old Commissariat Store, built by convicts in 1828.

Brisbane. It's a city of sunshine and smiles. It's a city with a vibrant spirit and warm, welcoming Aussie heart. And it's a city with options aplenty for leisure and pleasure. Outdoor activities and urban adventures... beautiful blue bay escapes... vineyards and views.

----------

Perth Hotels

Perth Skyline

Perched on the banks of the wide Swan River, Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities. Western Australia's capital sits between the Indian Ocean and the sands of the Nullarbor Desert. Perth's Sunset Coast is perfect for swimming. Fremantle's cafes and alfresco eateries suit laid-back urbanites. Free CAT buses service tourist locations in Central Perth and Fremantle. Don't miss the ferry to Rottnest Island, home to cute marsupials called Quokkas, or the views from King's Park and Botanic Gardens. Let's experience Perth - all the essential ingredients for a great holiday. Some of the country's best beaches, plenty of nightlife, bustling markets, inner city parks, outdoor dining and amazing marine adventures.