Category Archives: Australia

A Look at Top Three Famous Tourist Attractions in Melbourne

Melbourne has a rich history and also holds the distinction of being the second most populous city of Australia and Oceania. Packed with a plethora of attractions, Melbourne attracts countless travellers. From cultural shows and festivals to monuments and museums – Melbourne offers ample delightful distractions for one and all.

Here are just three of the most visited and well known places in Melbourne:

Federation Square

The Federation Square is one of the most prominent landmarks in Melbourne and is extensively used as a meeting place by the locals. It also serves as the venue for around 2000 events every year. With different events, parties, and festivals being held here, it has become a hot favourite amongst locals and tourists alike. The Federation Square is especially popular amongst party animals due to the large number of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and pubs here.

Eureka Tower

Eureka Tower is situated in Southbank. With a height of around 297 metres, it is said to be one of the highest apartment buildings on the planet.

Eureka-Tower

The building is especially famous for the Observation Deck (Eureka Skydeck 88) on its 88th floor. It goes without saying that the views from the Observation Deck are simply exhilarating. Binoculars and viewfinders are provided to visitors. A mind blowing attraction here is ‘The Edge’. It’s a glass cube, which is projected about 10 ft out of the building with visitors inside it. The experience of being virtually suspended midair can’t be put into words.

Yarra River

Yarra River is one of the most iconic elements of Melbourne’s identity. Go on a boat cruise to popular attractions such as Herring Island Park, and the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Yarra-River

The river is also famous for colourful events such as Dragon Boat Festivals, rowing regattas, Moomba Festival, and the Melbourne Festival. The banks of the river are dotted with fishing platforms and facilities for picnics and barbecues.

Top Things to do in Kakadu National Park, Australia

Kakadu National Park in Australia is one of the few UNESCO World Heritage recognised for culture as well as nature. The National Park is known for its biodiversity and Aboriginal history.

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The park covers a vast landscape where you will be able to see amazing gorges, rainforests, rocky escarpments, natural waterfalls pouring into small pools, rich flora and fauna, bogs and billabongs with floating lotuses and lurking predators like crocodiles.

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There are many things that you can choose to do in Kakadu depending upon your temperament. Here are some suggestions that you may consider.

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Yellow Water Cruising

One of the most adventurous things to do in Kakadu is Yellow Water Cruise at dawn, when everything is quiet and serene. The billabong is full of birdlife and sunrise is the best time to spot these winged denizens, because unlike many of us humans, the birds wake up early to get food for their family.

Unwinding in Bowali

Bowali Visitor Centre, inspired by the traditional Aboriginal Rock Shelter gets its name from the Bowali Creek that runs close to the establishment. At the visitor centre, you will be able to learn many things about aboriginal history. The centre is full of videos, information staff, a library and many other resources that provide loads of information

You can also visit the Marrawuddi gallery to admire beautiful works of art and handicrafts. It is also a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts. Alternatively, you may relax at the Anmak An-me Café.

Take a Plunge in the Rock Holes

A swim in the rock craters can be quite refreshing. You will feel as if you are in your very own pool amidst trees and rocks. Diving into these pools is especially refreshing after a long hike. The pools have largely been formed by waterfalls. You can stay in these pools as long as you want and there are no crocodiles to watch out for!

Darwin Festival – Explore the Art and Culture of Australia

australiaDarwin Festival, an 18-day annual art festival, is one of the biggest events in the Northern Territory and offers a sneak peek into the rich culture of Australia. In 2015, the festival is scheduled from 06th to 23rd August at various indoor as well as outdoor venues across Darwin. Let’s check out the major highlights of Darwin Festival 2015.

Santos Opening Night Concert

Visit ‘The Amphitheatre’, George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens to enjoy soulful performances by Clare Bowditch, Thelma Plum and Emma Donovan at this free opening night concert.  The three-hour show will start at 6:30pm and gates will open at 5pm.

Between Two Oceans

This musical event comprises of four concerts where artists from India, New Zealand and Indonesia will collaborate with performers from the host nation to create captivating melodies. Brown’s Mart Theatre will host the performances of Jayanthi Kumaresh, Ubiet with Topology, NZTrio, and Djakapurra Munyarryun & Veronique Serret on 07th, 09th, 14th and 22nd August, respectively.

Cry Jailolo

This contemporary dance show represents the moving story of Jailolo, an Indonesian island that has faced environmental degradation over the years. Visit The Playhouse at Darwin Entertainment Centre on 07th and 08th August to watch creative dance moves that represent optimism and express a sense of hope.

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair

This fair is an opportunity to admire the unique works of art created by aboriginal artists of Australia. From 07th to 09th August, Darwin Convention Centre will host the works of over 2000 artists at 50 indigenous art centres. In addition to visual arts, you can also enjoy traditional dance performances and participate in various workshops.

Nazeem Hussain

Comedy is an integral part of Darwin Festival and this year will mark the debut of popular Australian Comedian, Nazeem Hussain’s solo show. He has featured in several TV productions including Legally Brown, Balls of Steel Australia and It’s A Date. At Darwin Festival 2015, you can watch him live at The Lighthouse, an outdoor venue, on 23rd August at 7pm.

Four Iconic Tourist Attractions in the Northern Territory, Australia

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The Northern Territory in Australia is a fascinating travel destination. From spectacular natural beauty to enthralling wildlife and interesting Aboriginal culture, there is so much to explore in this wonderful region. Here are four iconic tourist attractions from this Australian territory.

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park is an ideal choice for the ones who love exploring wildlife and nature. The park is home an amazing array of wildlife including the large and dangerous saltwater crocodile. Over 70 species of reptiles are to be found at Kakadu. The park is also famous for its rich cultural heritage, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The famous rock art sites such as Nourlangie Rock, Jabiru and Ubirr (Obiri) Rock draw culture-vultures from all over the world.

Uluru

Also known as Ayers Rocks, in the honour of Sir Henry Ayers, the former Premier of South Australia, Uluru is located within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This mammoth red rock-formation is about 3.6kms long and rises to a height of 348m. The nearby forests harbour an enchanting array of flora and fauna, making the area a big hit with wildlife enthusiasts.

Litchfield National Park

Situated just a half an hour drive from Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, this popular nature reserve is known for its astonishing geographical diversity and great trekking opportunities. Head to Wangi Falls for admiring its spectacular beauty and rejuvenate yourself with a dip in its cool waters. Home to many spectacular natural pools and waterfalls, Table Top Range is another popular stretch in the park. The ruins of the Blythe Homestead are also worth exploring. More about Litchfield National Park.

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The Tiwi Island

The Tiwi Island, located 80km north of Darwin, is a wonderful tourist spot. Hordes of tourists flock to the island for its untamed natural beauty and interesting Tiwi Aboriginal culture. Enjoy staying in an eco-resort here. Visit a tribal village to experience their unique culture and lifestyle. Unspoiled beaches at the island are perfect for swimming and peaceful sunbathing. The most common way to visit the Tiwi Island is by joining one of the daily organized tours from Darwin.

Experience the Fun and Excitement of Winter Magic Festival in Blue Mountains, Australia

Blue Mountains is a terrific escapade for nature lovers holidaying in Sydney. Located around 50kms from the city, this mountainous region hosts a handful of popular events every year and attracts a large number of tourists. Winter Magic Festival is one such community fest which takes place every year around the Winter solstice in Katoomba, a major town in the City of Blue Mountains. In 2015, the annual festival is scheduled on 20th June. Check out what all is in store for you at Winter Magic Festival 2015.

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Grand Parade

This is perhaps the most prominent highlight of the festival. Unlike other popular parades across the globe, here you won’t find any vehicles or floats. The performance by different participants in colourful costumes is enough to impress. You too can participate in this parade as an individual or in a group. You just need to fill the application form (available on the official website) with a picture of your act and a small description.

Fun for Kids

For kids, the festival offers endless entertainment. A number of shows and events will take place at St Hilda’s Anglican Church and Scenic World Family Fun Zone (Civic Place and Old Library). The former will feature activities like face painting, hoola hoops and balloon sculpting whereas the latter is hosting shows like Remy’s Music Machine, Through the Kaleidoscopic, Dance Dymenssion and Yala Yala Belly Dance. Also, complimentary Identification Bands for kids are available at the festival information stand.

Fringe Events

The Drumming Workshop with Samba Ninjas is the most popular fringe event to be hosted at Winter Magic Festival. This free workshop is scheduled ahead of the Grand Parade at the Katoomba Public School, Green Shed, Waratah Street. You don’t need to carry your own instrument. Funk Without Frontiers is another fringe event that allures music lovers in hordes. It comprises live music concerts and DJ shows at Hotel Geain. If you are interested in magic shows, reach St Hilda’s Anglican Church by 6:30 pm to watch jaw-dropping tricks and illusions at the Melody of Magic.

Five Fascinating Things to Do and See in Sydney for Free

sydneyThe largest and most glamorous of all cosmopolitan cities in Australia, Sydney usually attracts well-heeled tourists. However, this doesn’t mean that the Harbour City has nothing for holidaymakers on a limited budget. In fact, Sydney offers so much to do and see, either for free or at very affordable costs that many travellers end up facing the problem of plenty! Here is a list of some wonderful, yet free activities and attractions that you can enjoy in this beautiful Australian metropolis.

Bondi to Tamarama Coastal Walk

This part of Sydney, known for its spectacular costal beauty and the nesting colonies of seabirds, is truly a walker’s paradise. In late spring, you may visit the ‘Sculpture by the Sea’, an annual free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition.

Amble Around the Sydney Harbour Bridge

Take in the captivating views of the harbour and the Sydney skyline, relax at al fresco picnic places, and if you’re lucky, spot a whale or two – there is a lot to enjoy around the iconic Sydney Harbour without paying a penny. Additionally, a few of the bars around the harbour offer free live music each night and on afternoons during weekends.

Art Gallery of NSW

An outstanding collection of Australian art, including a significant indigenous section, makes this premium art institution a much-loved attraction among tourists arriving in Sydney. It is one of the largest art galleries in Australia and entry is absolutely free. Furthermore, a range of free guided-tours, talks, and films on different themes and in various languages promises visitors a thought-provoking experience, well worth their time.

The Rock Discovery Museum

A must-visit attraction for history buffs, the Rock Discovery Museum showcases the rich heritage of the Rocks area of Sydney. A variety of exhibitions display unique archaeological artefacts, ancient paintings, and other items that narrate the story of the area from the pre-European days to the present. Entry to the museum is free; but you need to buy tickets for the guided tours.

Shelly Beach

This picturesque beach is located in Manly, a suburb of Sydney, and is a great place to see plenty of marine life in its natural habitat. With a maximum depth of approximately 12 metres, the shallow waters of the beach prove it to be an enchanting attraction for divers and snorkellers alike. The area around the beach boasts spectacular natural vistas, along with many eateries, cafes, and picnic spots.

Some Not To Miss Tourist Attractions in and around Melbourne

melbournMelbourne boasts an array of tourist trappings that delight one and all visiting this Australian metropolis. From a fascinating culture to enthralling architecture and scintillating beaches to scenic drives – the destination offers it all. Here is a quick rundown on some of the not to be missed attractions in and around the city.

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in Australia, houses around 2,000 marine creatures. Feel the adrenaline rush as you get up close to some of the rarest of aqua species such as sandbar whaler sharks, freshwater sawfish, and a grey nurse shark at the 2.2 million litre ‘Mermaid Garden Oceanarium’. Crocodile’s Lair, Bay of Rays, Coral Cave, Ocean Discovery and River to Reef are some of the other popular sections that exhibit marine and animal life from different parts of the globe.

Brighton Beach

Melbourne is blessed with many beautiful beaches, and Brighton Beach is perhaps the most spectacular among them all. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic coastline, play beach volleyball or simply lie down to sunbathe – there is something for one and all. The area around Brighton Beach is full of lively bars, cafes, restaurants and shopping precincts, making it a popular hangout.

The Great Ocean Road

If you love scenic drives, hit the Great Ocean Road. The magnificent views of cliffs and tranquil bays, the winding roads and the pleasant weather make the drive here an experience of a lifetime. Make sure you carry a camera to capture the beautiful scenery! If you are up for an adventure, stop for exciting activities such as climbing the peak of a volcanic crater, zip-lining and spotting wildlife.

Southbank

Dominated by high rises and other elements of opulent commercial development, Southbank is one of the most prominent business and tourist centres in Melbourne. While strolling along the scenic Yarra River, you can admire the gorgeous views of the Melbourne Skyline. The Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct is a great place for enjoying waterfront shopping and lively entertainment.  Plenty of restaurants here serve a variety of preparations, ranging from quickly done up fast food to elaborate and fresh seafood.

Animal Life Endemic to Australia and Places to Spot Them

australiaFabulous wildlife is one of the biggest highlights of Australia, with the Kangaroo being one of the most well known of wild animals to be found in the country. While, you may see this unique creature in zoos across the world, spotting a kangaroo in the wild is an amazing experience and Australia is the perfect place for this. Besides kangaroos, Australia is also inhabited by several other indigenous species. Let’s check in on kangaroos and other animals that catch the fancy of wildlife enthusiasts. Yes, we will also tell you where to find all these animals in Australia.

Kangaroo

Kangaroos are divided into two main categories, Red and Grey, and they are to be found almost everywhere across Australia. However, Kangaroo Island, the third largest island in the country, is considered to be the best place to see this creature in the wild.

Koala

The Koala is endemic to Australia but it is recognised all over the world. Take a drive along the Great Ocean Road and you get several opportunities to spot these lethargic yet cute creatures in their natural habitat near Kennet River.

Wallaby

The look-alike of the kangaroo, Wallaby is smaller in size. Like kangaroos, Wallabies also have a pouch to carry their young offspring. They are also to be found in almost every part of Australia may be divided into various categories such as Agile Wallaby, Albino Wallaby and Black Wallaby.

Tasmanian Devil

Unlike other marsupials like kangaroos, koalas and wallabies, Tasmanian Devil is an aggressive carnivorous marsupial. To watch it in the wild, plan a trip to Tasmania. A coastal scrubland or dry woodland would be an ideal place to spot this ferocious creature.

Emu

Emu is the smaller version of ostrich and can be found in most parts of Australia. The rural areas of Outback Southern-Queensland and Outback New South Wales are best for catching a glimpse of the Emus.

Wombats

Small yet muscular, Wombats are also known as “bulldozers of the bush” and are quite similar to koalas. Eastern Victoria and the forests of New South Wales have large populations of wombats. However, it is not easy to spot them in the wild as they live in burrows.

Events Promising a Fun-Packed May in Australia

australiaLots of exciting events and festivals are going to be held in Australia in the month of May, with a couple of especially interesting ones being a food and wine festival and a great marathon. If you would rather prefer something on more cultural lines, check out the best Jazz festival in the country. Come, take a more detailed look into these events and faake your pick.

Aussie Wine Month, 1st – 31st May

The Aussie Wine Month is the biggest yearly celebration of Australian wines. Here, one is treated to the perfect blend of the best of Australian wines and great food. With the exception of the Northern Territory, this festival will include numerous delightful events across the country. Major highlights of the event include cycling tours of wine regions, winemaker talks, blend-your-own wine classes, behind-the-scenes tours, degustation dinners and tastings. Many restaurants will also participate in this gala event.

Great Ocean Road Marathon, 16th – 17th May

Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road Marathon is one of the most spectacular marathons to take place in the country. Held over two days, it is one of the best events in Australia. The superb seaside location of the event offers spellbinding views of the Southern Ocean and does its bit to attract international athletes. The marathon stretches across a variety of distances, ranging from 1.5 to 44 kilometres and thus offers varying degrees of challenges to athletes of all ages. The different categories are 1.5 km, 6 km, 14 km, 23 km and 44 km.

Melbourne Jazz International Festival, 28th May – 07th June

The Melbourne International Jazz Festival (MIJF) is all set to truly live up to its name. Well, it has done so every year in the past. This time round, 300 renowned artists from over 10 countries will perform alongside local stars in a colourful 10-day celebration of jazz in all its greatest forms. Film screenings, late-night art parties, daily free concerts, evening ‘sound walks’, intimate club gigs, master classes, and programmes for families and children are some of the exciting events that MIJF will showcase to create an unforgettable experience. An array of venues, from intimate local clubs to large concert halls, will play host to the events.

Adelaide Botanic Garden – Three Unique Attractions You Should not Miss

Would you like to see a species of plant so old that it dates back to the time of the dinosaurs or a mysterious water lily which flowers only at night? What about a unique museum that is the last of its kind? The Adelaide Botanic Garden has them all!

This botanic garden not only features these amazing charms; it offers a lot more to bewitch visitors. The garden is like an oasis of serenity in the bustling city of Adelaide and is a great place to relax with friends and family. There is a collection of native as well as exotic and ornamental plants here. Besides the impressive flora, there are historic buildings, one-of-a-kind museum, charming cafés, and much more. Here is a quick peek into the unique highlights of the garden.

Wollemi Pine

If rare species of plants excite your imagination, do not miss the ‘Wollemi Pine’.

Wolleimi Pine is one of the oldest and rarest plants in the world. Considered to be one of the ‘Most Dramatic Comebacks in Natural History’, it dates back to the time of the dinosaurs. Not just rare, it was considered extinct until ten years ago. The amazing discovery of this plant by a bushwalker in New South Wales made it the talk of the town overnight.

Victoria amazonica water lily

A very special water lily, the Victoria amazonica flowers only when it’s dark, and lures scarab beetles for pollination.

The flower opens its white petals in the evening and releases a scent, which is irresistible to the beetles. Once the beetles come, the petals close and trap the beetles. The petals turn purple by the time it’s evening again. This signifies that pollination has taken place. Now, the petals reopen and release the beetles to move onto the next flower. Once the beetles are out, the plant closes its petals again and sinks underwater to develop its seeds.

Santos Museum of Economic Botany

This museum is the last of its kind in the world, with a permanent collection of exhibits dating back to the time it opened in 1881. The permanent collection includes Fruit Model Showcase, Fungi Model Showcase, Grove and Exhibition Space. You will get a fascinating and doubtlessly eye-opening insight into the importance of plants in our lives and their effect on our present and future. Countless plants along with their numerous uses are showcased and there is a strong focus upon the minimisation of waste.