Category Archives: Australia

5 Highlights on the Great Ocean Road, Australia

The Great Ocean Road of Australia is one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives, explored extensively by foreigners and locals alike.

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Adventure buffs can participate in a number of fun-filled activities that take place here almost all year round. Moreover, foodies will have a delightful time as there are a number of outstanding restaurants in the area.

If you plan to drive on the Great Ocean Road, do not forget to explore some of the region’s most significant tourist highlights. We have mentioned few below:

The Twelve Apostles

The Twelve Apostles is a set of limestone stacks resting near the shore of the Port Campbell National Park. At the moment there are eight apostles left. These structures have naturally been formed by constant erosion. Behind them are the majestic cliffs reaching a height of 70 metres! Until 1922 the site was known as the ‘Sow and Piglets’ which was later changed to ‘The Apostles’ and finally to ‘Twelve Apostles’.

The Grotto

The Grotto is a sinkhole geological formation that allows people to feel the peculiarity of the still, clear waters in contrast to the ocean beyond it. It is a naturally carved-out cave which stands up the cliff. The barrier that has been created in the viewing area is believed to be safe. So are the rock pools. However, hikers need to be cautious as certain parts of them can be slippery. Few rocks might be sharp-edged.

Triplet Falls in the Great Otway National Park

Triplet Falls is one of the iconic sites in the Great Otway National Park. One can learn about the history and the story of the rainforest, assisted by the signs that lead one around the place. Lying amongst the forests of Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech, there are three striking waterfalls flowing through shady rainforests.

Bells Beach

Located in the coastal locality of Victoria, the Bells Beach is a renowned attraction that hosts one of the world’s longest running surfing competitions called the ‘Rip Curl Pro Surf & Music Festival’. Top surfers come here to show their skills by tackling waves of up to five metres. Others can fish in the deep waters near the coast.

Lorne

Lorne is a rejuvenating destination that has grabbed the attention of holidaymakers for decades. There’s a wide variety of eating venues, accommodation options and attractions for all. More than 10 waterfalls are situated within 10 kilometres of this resort town. Artists will have a lovely time taking part in the Lorne Festival of The Performing Arts.

North Stradbroke Island – A Paradise in Australia

The North Stradbroke Island, or Straddie as locals call it, is an island located offshore Brisbane in the Moreton Bay in Queensland, Australia.

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With stunning and unique scenery, the island is a perfect beach destination, boasting an ideal combination of white sandy beaches, spectacular whale watching sites and wonderful lakes.

Beaches

The Stradbroke Island has the some of the most beautiful sandy white beaches in the world. The beaches stretch for miles and miles and are not much crowded. One can easily find a place to just sit back and relax.

Lakes

This beach island is home to around 100 lakes of various shapes and sizes. However, two exceptionally popular tourist attractions are the Blue Lake and the Brown Lake. The Blue Lake is of cultural importance to the local people and is also a subject of many environmental studies as the spring-fed lake has not been affected by climate change for around 7,500 years. The Brown Lake again is of cultural importance to the local people. A thick layer of leaves on the lake’s surface acts as an impermeable layer. The lake is tea-coloured due to the leaves that keep on falling into it from the surrounding tea trees.

Water Sports

There is a lot of scope for fun water-sports in this pristine beach island. Travellers can enjoy assisted scuba diving to the lovely warm waters of the beaches and the beautiful waves allow exciting water surfing opportunities. Bay kayaking under qualified instructors, is also a popular sport visitors like to experience in these waters. The lovely sand dunes of gentle slope as well as steep slopes offer the perfect opportunity for sand boarding. The ocean also provides a wonderful opportunity for deep sea fishing. One may avail fishing carters for this experience. Travellers can also join the various 4-wheeler safaris at the beaches to see the entire beach and its various attractions.

Whale Watching

The island is very famous for land based Whale Watching opportunities. Choose from among the many whale watching spots in the island and marvel at the thousands of Humpback Whales, dolphins, turtles, Eagle and Manta rays. Enjoy the sight of nature’s beautiful creations against a surreal backdrop and enjoy a wonderful holiday at the North Stradbroke Island.

Top 5 Experiences in Australia for a Fun-filled Holiday

With multiple theme parks, pristine beaches, unique wildlife and the largest coral reef on the planet, Australia is a hotspot for international travellers.

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Below, we have mentioned some of the fun-packed experiences that’ll make your trip to the country truly remarkable!

Skydive in Mission Beach

Mission Beach is an ideal location for adventure buffs wanting to skydive. Over 60 seconds of free-fall allows participants to enjoy the spectacular views of the Great Barrier Reef, tropical islands and rainforest all at once! This 14000 feet free-fall is accomplished with the guidance of first-class tandem masters. People should be wearing comfortable clothes and closed-in shoes. Children below 12 years of age are not allowed to participate in this activity. Experienced individuals can fly their own parachute.

Shark Cage Diving in Port Lincoln

Shark Cage Diving is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and totally unmissable! Participants are put into the ocean with Great White Sharks. Generally, the male sharks are 11 to 13 feet while the female sharks are 15 feet to 16 feet. During this dive, people are protected by only a cage! There are two main diving areas viz. North Neptune and South Neptune Islands, situated 30-40 Nautical Miles from Port Lincoln. These are the only islands in Australia that are permitted to perform Shark Cage Diving.

Drive on the Great Ocean Road

Travellers hoping to admire the beautiful views of Australia’s south coast must enjoy a drive on the iconic Great Ocean Road. This 243-kilometre stretch of road lies between the Victorian cities of Torquay and Allansford. Tourists can check out the art, and natural and cultural attractions located near it. For example, huge oceanic waves can be seen on Bell’s Beach. People can treat their taste buds at different restaurants and cafes of the region. Few of them are Fisho’s Torquay, Rebecca’s Cafe and Ice Cream Shop, Logan’s Cafe Restaurant, and Fen Restaurant.

Daintree River Cruises

Daintree River supports a stunning variety of marine life. While cruising down the river, people can spot saltwater crocodiles! A well-informed guide will share his knowledge about the predator, native plants and other natural surroundings. Solar Whisper Wildlife Cruises and Bruce Belcher’s Daintree River Cruises are two of the services that are being run here.

Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb

Visitors can enjoy a 360-degree view of Sydney from the well-known Harbour Bridge that carries rail, vehicular, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic between the Sydney central business district and the North Shore. Starting from the Climb Base below the Bradfield Highway, individuals will have to reach the top after passing Bridge’s outer arch on the Opera House side. All in all, there are 1,332 steps to climb.

The Romance of the Top 5 Trekking Trails in Australia

Australia offers some of the most rewarding trekking opportunities. These trail walks take one across the vast wilderness and beautiful landscapes of the country.

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Deep gorges, valleys, mountains and magnificent waterfalls will captivate your deepest senses as you trek along the trails.

Great Ocean Walk, Victoria

Stretching for around 104 kilometres, the spectacular coastline of Victoria offers a unique trekking experience and can be completed in about 8 days. The route passes through areas that are home to a wide variety of animals like koalas, wallabies, reptiles and several bird species. Different landscapes such as windswept cliffs, deserted beaches, marine sanctuaries and rugged coasts greet you along the route.

Overland Track, Tasmania

Widely acclaimed as one of the best hiking trails in Australia, this track in the island of Tasmania spans 65 kilometres and can be completed in 5 to 6 days. The diverse vistas and landscapes comprising of waterfalls, lakes and mountains make the journey all the more overwhelming. The season lasts from October to May and prior booking is recommended.

Larapinta Trail, Northern Territory

Snaking its way along mountains and ridges, this 223 kilometre long trek is said to offer the ultimate bushwalking experience due to its remoteness and rugged topography. It takes about 14 days to complete the trail but a quicker expedition is possible with the aid of a support vehicle. Summer temperatures can soar as high as 45 degree Celsius, so winters are a better time of the year to make this trek.

Thorsborne trail, Queensland

This 32 kilometre trail in the Hinchinbrook Island is an unspoilt tropical paradise that offers spectacular views of cloud-cloaked mountains while taking you through rainforests, swamps and pristine white beaches. The diverse wildlife comprising of bright butterflies, exotic birds, crocodiles, sea turtles, dugongs and dolphins along the trail render a sight to behold.

Australian Alps Walking Track, Eastern Australia

This trail offers an epic trekking experience along the Australian Alps. Covering a challenging distance of 655 kilometres, the trail passes through alpine national parks, high mountains and expansive high plains. Prior experience in trekking and skills in navigation go a long way in making this endeavour less daunting.

Are you a Daredevil? Well, prove it in Australia

Do you like to live on the edge? Do you like to challenge yourself with death defying adventures? Well luckily there is a place for all you daredevils and the place is none other than Australia.

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Sky diving, bungee jumping, rafting and surfing; the list of nail biting adventures that ‘Down Under’ offers is indeed long.

Bungee Jumping at Cairns

For some reason, throwing yourself from a height by harnessing yourself to a rubber rope seems to be the most desired of all adventure activities. And the setting of tropical Cairns is just perfect to live the thrill. ‘AJ Hackett Bungee Tower’ is one such place where the joy and thrill of jumping down to just above the earth’s surface can be accomplished.

Mountain Biking in the New South Wales

Mountain bikers are in for an experience of their lifetime as The Great Dividing Range in New South Wales has a deeply challenging terrain and is one of the most acclaimed off road biking destinations in the world. The road is full of surprises with twists and turns which requires expert maneuvers. Akuna Bay and West Head Loop, Barry Way and Lions Road Loop are some of most exciting mountain bike trails in the South Wales area.

Skydiving at Byron Bay

The sheer experience of skydiving at the Byron Bay is just amazing. The skydiving team at this place is very well equipped and boasts of zero casualties till date. Coming to Australia and not being a part of this escapade is a sin for all daredevils. No, this is not an exaggeration.

Scuba Diving at The Great Barrier Reef

The joy of scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef, the only visible living structure from the space can be compared to none. An extensive biodiversity and mesmerizing deep water living organisms make this place a heaven for scuba enthusiasts. The shallow spots are just right for amateur divers while professionals can venture deep into the ocean for added thrill.

4×4 ride at Fraser Island

Imagine being on a journey with a few other backpackers sharing adventure stories while you embark on a trip across the largest sand island in the world. You can camp at different campsites, light a fire and let the serene beauty of the night sky overlooking the ocean mesmerize your senses.

Experience the Musical Aura of Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival, Queensland

This spring season tourists will indulge in the melodious mist of music at top-notch Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival in Australia. If you are planning a trip to the bountiful Australia, why not include this high-end event in the itinerary and immerse in the musical celebration at the Gold Coast, Queensland? So get ready to treat your ears with a vivacious collection of songs and music.

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The musical heartbeat, Blues on Broadbeach will turn Australia into a music freak country from May 19th to May 22, 2016. Fly down here to enjoy the colourful and vibrant season with a blend of rejuvenation and craziness of music lovers all around.

Who are the Participants?

The vivacious festival will feature various Australian and international artists including Eric Burdon, and The Bamboos. Fans will also be treated with amazing music by massive artists like Cookin’ on 3 Burners featuring Tex Perkins, and a Back in Blue tribute to AC/DC.  Travel to this exclusive festival to witness five-time ARIA Award winning singer, guitarist and songwriter; Diesel perform at Friday Night of the festival in the Jupiters Hotel & Casino Theatre.

Delineated as Australia’s biggest free music festival, Blues in Broadbeach will also be graced by artists including Owen Campbell, the Heartache State, Bondi Cigars, Nick Barker, Blue Shaddy, along with Big Daddy Wilson.

What’s the Ambiance and Venue?

The four-day music festival will sweep you off your feet with great music in a countryside ambiance. Enjoy the heart-pumping music festival at distinct venues offering a fascinating ambiance blended with captivating performances. This day and night festivity will also provide promising opportunities to explore Broadbeach on the Gold Coast and the surrounding regions. The listed streets and venues include Alto Cucina & Bar, Atrium Bar at Jupiters Hotel & Casino, Broadbeach Mall Stage, and Broadbeach Tavern.

More Information

The popular Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival was commenced in May 2002 and since then it is one of the biggest free music festivals in Australia. Fans get to groove in the cacophony of music ranging from soothing and classical to hip-hop and jazz. It welcomes fans from across the globe to enjoy. Unleash the musical paradise with Blues on Broadbeach Music Festival as it endeavours to nurture Australian and international talent.

Relax and rejuvenate in this marvellous musical fest with enthusiastic crowd and energetic performers this year.

Five Off-beat Attractions in Sydney

The state capital of New South Wales – Australia, Sydney has several world famous tourist attractions such as Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, The Rocks and Circular Quay. Visitors will be truly amazed with these iconic monuments, landmarks and their surroundings.

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While most travellers are aware of such must-visit attractions, the destination also has spectacular locations that are often considered as hidden gems. You will definitely like the tranquil and beautiful atmosphere of these places.

Vaucluse House

Vaucluse House is a 19th century estate, built in Gothic Revival style. It features a house, kitchen wing, stables and outbuildings bordered by a beautiful garden. In1915, this mansion became the first official house museum of the country. Today, it hosts many events and exhibitions such as Sydney Harbour Icons, Autumn Harvest Festival, culinary tours and photography awards. Vaucluse House provides a fun cultural learning experience to all the visitors.

Bundeena

A village in the peripheral area of southern Sydney, Bundeena is the centre of attraction for artists and adventure-seekers. This peaceful place has numerous local galleries, family-friendly beaches and an attractive market. One may participate in activities such as kayaking, fishing and stand-up paddle-boarding. Bundeena can be reached by both car and ferry.

Museum of Sydney

Developed on the ruins of Arthur Phillip’s home, Museum of Sydney hosts many exhibitions that allow people to discover both colonial and modern Sydney. The goods and chattels from the city’s convict era are on display here. This is perhaps the best venue for travellers wishing to know about Sydney’s background and its advancement over the years.

Darook Park

Darook Park is the perfect picnic location for families and friends. The lush green gardens, shady corners and still waters for swimming attract travellers to the location. This little piece of heaven offers spectacular views of the sky during sunset. The serene ambience allows visitors to rest, relax and enjoy their time here.

Boa Voyagem for Homebush Bay!

Homebush Bay is a unique spot where visitors can get a chance to witness several ships that were abandoned here when the ship-breaking yard was closed. The most stunning spectacle is the more than a century old ship, which is covered with innumerable mangrove trees and rich vegetation. Its majestic presence is simply awe-inspiring.

Here Comes the Melbourne International Jazz Festival

Get ready for the world-famous Melbourne International Festival. Immerse yourself in the undying enthusiasm and heart-thumping cacophony of music from 3rd June, 2016 to 12th June, 2016. The festival will make you groove to the best of jazz music in town.

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Participating Artists and Musicians

This winter, enjoy extraordinary programs of international jazz. The festival will bring together the world’s modern jazz masters and renowned personalities to the beautiful island country of Australia. Plan your days accordingly as it would be graced by Grammy award winner; Esperanza Spalding. The singer will make her Australian debut in the festival.

Other globally popular artists and musicians to perform will include Robert Glasper Trio from USA, Snarky Puppy, Keyon Harrold featuring Twi-Life, Paul Williamson Quartet and Tomasz Stanko Band. Grab your spot at the festival to enjoy enthusiastic performances by your favourite artists and musicians at various venues in Australia.

What’s more?

In an endeavour to highlight and celebrate the evolution of this intricate art form, Melbourne International Jazz Festival 2016 will offer a lot of interesting programs and themes. Immerse in the sensation of an exciting array of genre-bending crossovers, soulful singers, concerts, master classes, club gigs, intensive instrumentalists and film screenings.

Venues

The extensive jazz festival is a top-notch event awaited by many die-hard fans. The numerous performances by high-class international and national musicians will be held in iconic venues including clubs, bars, and recital halls.

Some of the most prominent venues for the festival are ArtPlay, Arts Centre Melbourne, Bennetts Lane Jazz Club, Bluestone Church Arts Space, Dizzy’s Jazz Club and Federation Square.

Tickets

Don’t miss your chance to experience live performances and much more during the festival. Fly down to Melbourne and cherish the celebration. Book your tickets at the earliest as fans vie to grab their spots. The tickets for Melbourne International Jazz Festival 2016 are available on the official website. Also, one can also explore a series of free events which will include performances by Julliard Free Lunchtime Jazz, Opening Celebration Concert, and Los Cabrones at the Winter Night Market.

Visit ‘The Australian Celtic Festival’ – 28th April to 1st May, 2016!

Get ready to enjoy the vibrant and interesting feast of music, dance and drama at ‘The Australian Celtic Festival’, which will be held from 28th April to 1st May, 2016 at Glen Innes, New South Wales, Australia. Each year, the festival celebrates one of the Celtic nations.

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This year, it will honour the Isle of Man with a few surprises, events and activities pre-planned for the guests. So, if you are booking tickets for your holidays, you have another good reason to consider Australia.

Highlights

Australian Standing Stones is the main venue for the 2016 Australian Celtic Festival. The four day festival will honour the Isle of Man featuring an array of entertaining activities that include a street parade, massed pipe bands, strong man events, racing, dancing, flag raising ceremonies, market stalls and Celtic food. This year, the festival will again draw clans, national groups, dancers and artists from across Australia and overseas.

Music

Enjoy the favourite band, The Kelly Family Band. You will forget all the worries that come with daily life. Another popular band is the ‘Drumworx’, a group of pipe band drummers. Their members have competed at the highest level on the world’s stages and they will perform here together. The skills displayed will blow your minds. Drumworx has been one of the favourites of people of all ages. This drum salute will be a highlight of the festival.

Dance and Drama

When it comes to drama, ‘NEMAS’ is the best and the group will perform different shows on all four days. Specialist professionals from Irish Dance School adept in various Celtic dance performances will enthral the audiences. They will be presenting their traditional group of Irish Solo dances as well as Irish and Scottish dances.

Tickets

Tickets and passes for the four day festival are available online! One can even buy tickets directly from the Visitor Information Centre at the venue. Please keep in mind that if you are planning to attend any of the events or even the entire festival, we encourage you to make advance bookings to avoid last minute rush.

Top Five Sunset Points in and around Sydney, Australia

People from across the globe visit Sydney to experience its magnificence and beauty. Sydney is one of the finest tourist destinations to experience tranquillity at its best.

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Book your tickets and fly down to the city of endless picturesque vistas and spectacular sunsets. Check out the top five sunset points we have shortlisted for you.

Camp Cove Sunset view at Watsons Bay

The fascinating short walk from Watsons Bay ferry wharf will surely enchant you. Walk along the blue waters and bay and admire picture-perfect sunset views along with crystal clear waters and white sands. The Watsons Bay is also a great family picnic spot. At Camp Cove one can go swimming, snorkelling and paddling.

Manly Ferry Trip to Sydney Harbour Bridge Sunset

Manly Ferry ride will take you to the Harbour Bridge for a beautiful sunset view. The total cruise will take around an hour’s time. Viewing the sunset over Harbour Bridge is very popular among locals and tourists alike. Also don’t miss fun activities and local Aussie cuisine on arrival at Manly.

Echo Point Lookout at Katoomba

Echo Point Lookout is an exciting trip for nature lovers. Enjoy a truly breathtaking view at the iconic ‘Three Sisters’. It is indeed a breathtaking smooth and playful trip, perfect for everyone. Echo Point garden is a part of the Prince Henry Cliff Walk and provides panoramic views of the southern Blue Mountains, Kanangra-Boyd Wilderness and the iconic Three Sisters.

Balmain Sailing Club Sunset near River Street

The Balmain Sailing Club is one of the most popular sunset points in Sydney. Visit the place to enjoy the tranquil ambiance in the lap of nature. Tourists come here to simply relax under the brilliant orange sky. Balmain Sailing Club is also famous for boating and you may watch the setting sun from a boat.

Leichhardt Park Sunset Point

The Leichhardt Park welcomes everyone with its greenery. The bay walk from Callan Park at the north and Leichhardt Oval at the east or La Montage at the south is a refreshing experience. There is ample space for walkers, joggers and cyclists. One can sit and relax at the cafe and enjoy tea and coffee with snacks. Truly, it’s a great place to gaze at the sunset.