https://australiablog.com/ Australia travel guide: cities and regions, transport, accommodation, working holidays and trip reports. en Thu, 03 Sep 2026 07:12:37 +0000 https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/10-great-places-to-see-in-australias-outback-besides-uluru.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/10-great-places-to-see-in-australias-outback-besides-uluru.html Mon, 10 Jun 2013 12:00:00 +0000 Think of the Australian Outback, and it’s likely to be one image that comes to mind first – Uluru. There’s good reason for this, of course, as the great red rock is an iconic image of not just the Outback but of Australia itself. As you might expect, however, there’s much more to the Outback than just Uluru. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-perth-outdoor-attractions.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-perth-outdoor-attractions.html Tue, 02 Oct 2012 12:00:00 +0000 Perth is slowly becoming one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. With its fast-paced development due to the mining boom in nearby areas, it is slowly becoming a hub for both glamorous and laid-back lifestyles. Perth hotels range from cheap, long-term options to 5 star and luxury accommodation that sits on its outskirts by private beaches and lush forestry. It truly is a place that ca https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/5-gap-year-destinations-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/5-gap-year-destinations-in-australia.html Wed, 26 Sep 2012 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Columbus Direct . For more information on sponsored posts read here . https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-to-do-during-the-australian-winter.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-to-do-during-the-australian-winter.html Fri, 06 Jul 2012 12:00:00 +0000 When you think of winter, you tend to think of cold weather with lots of rain and early darkness. Well, that’s not quite what you get with winter in Australia . Whilst snow can be found in certain parts of southern Australia, especially Tasmania and Victoria, many parts of the country, such as Darwin in the north, still experience an average maximum temperature of 30°C during the winter months. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/beaches-in-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/beaches-in-sydney.html Thu, 28 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000 Despite being the largest city in Australia, one of the things for which Sydney is most famous for is its beaches. Bondi Beach has an international reputation as being one of the best beaches in Australia — and the world, a view which is only enhanced by the excellent surfing conditions there. Its surf entices intrepid backpackers from around the world, who are attracted to the strong and challeng https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/the-3-best-ways-to-explore-australia.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/the-3-best-ways-to-explore-australia.html Fri, 15 Jun 2012 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Cruiseabout . For more information on sponsored posts read here . https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-dive-reefs-in-queensland.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-dive-reefs-in-queensland.html Sat, 10 Mar 2012 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Flight Centre . For more information on sponsored posts read here . https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/why-you-should-add-melbourne-to-your-round-the-world-trip.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/why-you-should-add-melbourne-to-your-round-the-world-trip.html Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000 A trip around the world is the pinnacle experience for many travel lovers. So many of us dream about taking more than just our typical one or two week vacations. We yearn to hit the road for months at a time, maybe even a year, maybe even longer. That dream has become a reality for many people, and our sister site over at BootsnAll has been revamping, updating, and adding content to the round the https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/why-you-should-add-sydney-to-your-rtw-itinerary.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/why-you-should-add-sydney-to-your-rtw-itinerary.html Tue, 27 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Sydney is a popular destination for travelers all around the world. It offers a varitey of different opportunities for travel lovers – a big city, beautiful beaches, nice parks, and plenty of attractions nearby. For many of us, the downfalls of visiting Sydney is that it’s so far away. If coming from the US or Europe, travelers can spend several days of their vacation just getting to and from Aust https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/qt-hotel-funky-accommodation-in-surfers-paradise.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/qt-hotel-funky-accommodation-in-surfers-paradise.html Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 From the outside, the QT Hotel in Surfers Paradise looks like any other art deco-esque beach hotel, and that’s because up until recently, it was. The QT Hotel just opened after a complete renovation of an older building, and the vibe on the inside is both funky and fresh. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/bazaar-restaurant-gold-coast.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/bazaar-restaurant-gold-coast.html Sun, 18 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Reading reviews of Bazaar will leave you with images of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, surrounded by colorful carpets, bags of spice and dried fruits. You’ll start to picture yourself picking from this and that, having a nibble (or a feast) from the eclectic mix of local delicacies. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/how-to-get-best-views-gold-coast.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/how-to-get-best-views-gold-coast.html Tue, 13 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One thing that really surprised me about the Gold Coast was the amount of water that fills the area. Not only is the Gold Coast coastal, but a surprising number of waterways also snake through the towns themselves. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/8-things-to-do-on-mount-tamborine.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/8-things-to-do-on-mount-tamborine.html Mon, 12 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When taking a trip to the Gold Coast , most people tend to only think of the beaches and the beach towns that line the coast. Hey, it’s great and there’s no problem in that, but did you know that a green, rainforest getaway to the hinterland is just 30 minutes by car? https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/7-thrilling-reasons-dreamworld.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/7-thrilling-reasons-dreamworld.html Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 As a self-proclaimed roller coaster junkie, it doesn’t take much to convince me to head to a theme park. In fact, I am generally the person selling friends and family on the prospect as well because… let’s face it… I love some thrilling rides! https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/skypoint-gold-coast.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/skypoint-gold-coast.html Tue, 06 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Towering 77 stories above the Gold Coast’s Surfers Paradise is the SkyPoint Observation Deck . Located in the Q1 residential tower, the deck is situated 230 meters above the ground and offers 360 degree views of the Gold Coast and beaches that surround it. https://australiablog.com/sports/australian-basketball-an-evening-with-the-sydney-kings.html https://australiablog.com/sports/australian-basketball-an-evening-with-the-sydney-kings.html Mon, 31 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This guest post comes to you from my go-to sports guy, Tony Perna of It’s Good Overseas ! He spent the evening watching a local basketball game and reports back on the experience below: https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/port-douglas-thala-beach-lodge.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/port-douglas-thala-beach-lodge.html Fri, 28 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The Thala Beach Lodge in Port Douglas literally took my breath away. I know that, while on media trips, it can be hard for someone to be completely objective on certain attractions and hotels. And, on the trip where I stayed at the Thala Beach Lodge, we stayed at a number of high-end hotels in north Queensland where half were overly amazing and the other half were not as spectacular in comparison, https://australiablog.com/destinations/cairns-destinations/cairns-get-crocodile-at-dundees.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/cairns-destinations/cairns-get-crocodile-at-dundees.html Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Not only is this restaurant situated right on the waterfront, just around the corner from the Cairns Shangri-La, and in the Reef Fleet Terminal strip, but it is also home to some dishes the international traveler might find a peculiar treat. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-10202011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-10202011.html Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Travel agents said that staff are working long hours to reschedule tickets and have threatened to stop selling Qantas tickets. https://australiablog.com/Culture/cooking-classes-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/cooking-classes-in-australia.html Thu, 20 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Cooking classes in Australia range from one-off evening lessons to full-blown courses with the best of the best. Unlike places like Thailand or Italy, when you take a cooking class in Australia , you have the option of learning the recipes of a variety of cultures given the mixing bowl of nations that make up the country. You can learn Malaysian cooking, Indian cooking, Italian, French, Portuguese https://australiablog.com/destinations/melbourne/things-you-should-know-about-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/melbourne/things-you-should-know-about-melbourne.html Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Ah, Melbourne. Melbourne is like Australia’s response to Sydney being too popular a city. Instead of letting one major location take all the glory, it offered up a very trendy city to the south to cause a bit of “which is better” controversy. The answer to that controversial question is obviously entirely up to the individual, so I can’t help you there. https://australiablog.com/about-australia/why-i-love-australia.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/why-i-love-australia.html Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is the first post in a new feature on WhyGo Australia called the Australia Blog Roundtable. For the roundtable, I’ve joined forces with other Aussie lovers and bloggers — yTravelBlog , Nomads Hostels , Hostelworld and Australia Rocky Travel — to touch on a specific topic from our own unique perspectives each month. Enjoy! https://australiablog.com/destinations/brisbane/things-you-should-know-about-brisbane.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/brisbane/things-you-should-know-about-brisbane.html Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Even though it is the Queensland capital city, Brisbane used to be considered more of a hub city for travelers venturing up to the tropical regions of the country. Nowadays, Brisbane is starting to shine (more than literally) as it is becoming quite the trendy little (big) city with a population increasing daily as more Australians make the move. https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/things-you-should-know-about-perth.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/things-you-should-know-about-perth.html Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Way out west is where you’ll find the Western Australian capital city of Perth . To get there from Sydney , you either have to take a nearly 5 hour flight or ride a train for 3 nights. It’s not quick trip to get to Perth, but once you arrive, you’ll be glad that you did. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-you-should-know-about-tasmania.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-you-should-know-about-tasmania.html Wed, 12 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Tasmania is both an island and a state located to the south-east of Australia’s mainland. Tassie, as locals call it, is home to dense forest, some mountains and excellent beaches – but what else do you know about Tasmania? Below is a list of some facts and tid-bits that a person might find useful when traveling to Tasmania. https://australiablog.com/destinations/canberra/free-things-canberra.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/canberra/free-things-canberra.html Mon, 10 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When taking a trip to the nation’s capital, Canberra , it helps when planning a trip to 1) make sure you know how to navigate roundabouts, 2) book a cheap flight if you don’t plan to drive, and 3) look up all the fun things to do in Canberra . To continue with these helpful tips, we are now going to take a look at all of the free things there are to do in the capital city of Canberra. https://australiablog.com/destinations/darwin/free-things-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/darwin/free-things-darwin.html Fri, 07 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When it comes to Darwin , a list of things to do in the city really comes down to nature and being outside. The same goes for the free things to do in Darwin . The beauty of this small capital city up in the Northern Territory is simply its location and its natural charm. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/free-things-gold-coast.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/free-things-gold-coast.html Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 I like to call the Gold Coast an adult playground, but it is also a playground for families and children as well. As suiting at the name may be, however, participating in an adult playground with a jungle gym of water parks and theme parks, and giant merry-go-rounds that drop people from the sky (er… skydiving is where I was getting at with that one) is not on the cheap side. I’ve already written https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-10062011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-10062011.html Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When I was a child my Dad explained to me who everyone was in my family, and my Mukai taught me how to behave with them all. Knowing where you ‘fit’ is really important, as it tells you what your responsibilities are, who you can marry, and how you should talk with each other. Some relations I can’t have a direct conversation with at all. https://australiablog.com/destinations/cairns-destinations/free-things-cairns.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/cairns-destinations/free-things-cairns.html Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Cairns is a popular tourist destination in Australia, and, because of that fact, it has a very long and standard list of things to do. You can go bungy jumping, jump out of an airplane, take a boat out to the Great Barrier Reef and take tours galore. However, these all cost money, and if you’re not down for spending money every day (although these experiences are all definitely worth the splurge), https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/free-things-to-do-in-perth.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/free-things-to-do-in-perth.html Tue, 04 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Not everyone has buckets of money to spend on their Perth holidays. Perhaps you spent it all on gas money on the drive over, or maybe your ticket on the Indian Pacific train set you back more than you would have liked (but that sleeper cabin was well worth it, right?). Whatever the reason, you don’t have to worry! Perth has plenty of free activities to partake in that will still help you see the c https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-canberra.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-canberra.html Sat, 01 Oct 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The easiest way, as with most destinations in Australia, of getting to Canberra from Melbourne is by plane . Direct flights from Melbourne to Canberra operate 10 to 18 times per day depending on the day of the week, and they can be completed on both Qantas and Virgin Australia. To learn more about getting a good fare, read the article on budget airlines that fly to Canberra . Otherwise, have a sea https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-canberra.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-canberra.html Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Anyone truly interested in learning more about the country of Australia should probably take a quick trip to Canberra , the country’s capital. Canberra is the city where the country ticks, government meetings and proceedings take place, and where history can be investigated. The destination is often the day excursion for school kids as there are a number of museums and learning centers in the area https://australiablog.com/transportation/adelaide-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/adelaide-to-darwin.html Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Adelaide and Darwin are on two separate sides, south and north, of central Australia. Even though getting from one to the other appears to be a somewhat straight line, don’t be fooled: That central part of the country is a place of uncertain, barren and unforgivable outback. Let’s not also forget about the massive size of Australia and how deceptive maps are in portraying the distance from one loc https://australiablog.com/sports/ice-hockey-liverpool-western-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/sports/ice-hockey-liverpool-western-sydney.html Sun, 25 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This guest post comes to you from my go-to sports guy, Tony Perna of It’s Good Overseas ! Did you ever think that Australians would play ice hockey? Well, they do, and here’s the post to prove it: Winter is thankfully over in Sydney , and I must say I had been holding out for the chilly weather to end. However, winter wasn’t all bad: I got to enjoy a little known winter sport in Australia: Ice Hoc https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-09242011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-09242011.html Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 https://australiablog.com/destinations/adelaide/things-to-do-in-adelaide.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/adelaide/things-to-do-in-adelaide.html Sat, 24 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Adelaide is known as Australia’s most liveable city, and because of that, it is also an easy one for travelers to visit and get to know better. It doesn’t take much for a visitor to get around, especially since it is also known as the 20 minute city. In other words: It’s not an overwhelming place to travel like Sydney might be with its traffic and far-reaching suburbs and attractions. https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-sydney-harbour.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-sydney-harbour.html Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When looking for the best place to stay in Sydney , it really doesn’t get much better than right smack near Sydney Harbour. Sydney Harbour is home to many of Sydney’s attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. It’s where the Rocks District lies, the ferries to Manly and the Taronga Zoo take off and many shops, bars, restaurants and museums call their home: right next to https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/finding-bargain-hotel-rates-in-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/finding-bargain-hotel-rates-in-sydney.html Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by HostelBookers . For more information on sponsored posts read here https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-melbourne-airport.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-melbourne-airport.html Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Frequent business travelers, travelers taking off on an early flight, those coming from long distances and travelers suffering from the unfortunate hand of weather (or other unforeseen circumstances) might find themselves in need of getting a good night’s rest at a hotel near Melbourne Airport . When all you can think about is getting straight to a shower or a bed, then some of these options below https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/campervan-travel-in-perth-and-western-australia.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/campervan-travel-in-perth-and-western-australia.html Tue, 20 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Britz Campervans . For more information on sponsored posts read here https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-sydney-airport.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-near-sydney-airport.html Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 It’s no secret that a flight to Sydney , Australia might be on the extremely long side of the scale. If you’re like me and have trouble getting a good rest on the flight and also have an extended layover (or unforeseen layover) in Sydney, then scoping out the nearby hotels to the Sydney Airport may be a priority. With a quick taxi ride, you can be checked in and relaxing in your private hotel room https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-perth-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-perth-to-darwin.html Sat, 17 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 It’s not the most common route when traveling Australia, getting from Perth to Darwin , particularly because these two capital cities are two of the most remote in the country. The distance from Perth to Darwin as the crow flies is a lengthy 2,646 kilometers (1,644 miles), starting in the southwestern corner of Western Australia and ending up in the northern section of Northern Territory . This ar https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-melbourne.html Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The distance between these two capital cities, Brisbane and Melbourne , is a lengthy 1370 kilometers as the crow flies. On land, the distance appears even longer. Most people would think the process of getting from Brisbane to Melbourne over land is much too long, but really it depends on how much time you have to spend enjoying the ride. You can take a look at the posts on getting from Brisbane t https://australiablog.com/Culture/aboriginal-tours-north-queensland.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/aboriginal-tours-north-queensland.html Tue, 13 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Taking the time to learn about the Aboriginal culture is just as much an important experience as visiting the Great Barrier Reef or exploring the outback when taking a trip Down Under. Tropical North Queensland just so happens to be a part of the country that hosts a number of Aboriginal tours and experiences that enchant visitors and teach the ways of the native Australians. As a participant in a https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-australia-to-new-zealand.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-australia-to-new-zealand.html Sun, 11 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 With a flight to Australia from many parts of the world taking so incredibly long, it just makes sense for travelers to make the most of their trip and hit New Zealand as well. A number of airlines travel between the two countries regularly, some at budget rates that will please just about anyone. Better than the price is the short flight distance. Taking just around three hours in travel time fro https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-auckland.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-auckland.html Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Are you in Melbourne and looking for a quick getaway adventure to Auckland, New Zealand ? With Australia and New Zealand being separate island countries, the only way to make the journey from Melbourne to Auckland would be by plane or by boat – two options that have two very different time frames to work into a travel schedule. This post talks about both of the options involved in getting from Mel https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-auckland.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-auckland.html Thu, 08 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 There are two basic ways of getting from Brisbane to Auckland : a quick flight or a long boat ride. Brisbane , the capital city of Queensland in Australia, is a popular hub for both travel around the state and for hitching rides to nearby countries, like New Zealand . Auckland, being the New Zealand capital, is on the North Island and makes for the perfect entry point into Australia’s sister count https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-kuranda-from-cairns-and-return.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-kuranda-from-cairns-and-return.html Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Kuranda is known as the “village in the rainforest” located about 30 kilometers northwest of Cairns . The scenic little village is home to a number of great tourist attractions like a koala park and a butterfly sanctuary, those of which, combined with cute cafes and local markets, can easily keep you occupied throughout a morning or afternoon. As unique as Kuranda is, the real fun, in my opinion, https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/6-best-surfing-spots-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/6-best-surfing-spots-in-australia.html Mon, 05 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Remember when I posted the 6 best beaches in Australia not too long ago? I do especially because it was a difficult task to whittle down a list of thousands of potential great Aussie beaches into one tiny list of six. Well, I’m about to do the same with surfing spots in Australia even though those 30,000 kilometers of coastline give way to hundreds, if not thousands, of options. https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/coffees-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/coffees-sydney.html Sun, 04 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One of the biggest surprises greeting any visitor to Sydney is the deeply ingrained coffee culture found throughout this stunning harbour city. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-airport-to-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-airport-to-sydney.html Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One of the first things you may have to do when arriving in Australia is simply getting yourself from the Sydney Airport to Sydney city. As easy as that one little task might sound now, chances are you have probably just traveled many hours on a long international flight – maybe with little sleep and a crick in your neck – and are just not thinking as clearly as you would under normal circumstance https://australiablog.com/Culture/first-timers-guide-aussie-barbie.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/first-timers-guide-aussie-barbie.html Tue, 30 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When it comes to experiencing the local culture, it really doesn’t get much more Australian than taking part in an Aussie barbie. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-bali.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-bali.html Sun, 28 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Bali is a South Pacific island that draws in the tourists like no other. And, now, with the whole “Eat, Pray, Love” epidemic sweeping across the world, it is even more popular, not just with Australians, but with those traipsing the globe on quick and long holidays. This Indonesian island is almost like paradise with a brilliant climate, colorful surrounds and lots of ocean. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-darwin.html Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Following in line with this short series on getting to Darwin is the transportation options for getting to Darwin from Brisbane . Even though both are in the northern part of the country, Brisbane is still a good 2,849 kilometers in a straight line (as the crow flies) from Darwin. These transport tips will help you plan your trip accordingly. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-melbourne-to-darwin.html Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Melbourne and Darwin are pretty much on opposite ends of Australia with Melbourne deep in the south of Victoria and Darwin in the Top End of Northern Territory . The distance as the crow flies is 3,140 kilometers, which is the straight line distance. If you wish to do the trip by any way other than a flight, you are in for a long, yet potentially amazing, time. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-darwin.html Wed, 24 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Darwin is one of those Australian places that not many tourists get to see because of its location, but it is also one that some of the most unique views of this massive country. Since Sydney is the most popular hub city in the country, we’ll be talking about how you can get from Sydney to Darwin on your Australian holiday. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08232011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08232011.html Tue, 23 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The tourism industry on Queensland's Gold and Sunshine coasts could reap millions of dollars from an extended agreement to host the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/free-sydney-walking-tours.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/free-sydney-walking-tours.html Mon, 22 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The best way to explore a new city is to get on your feet. Walking brings you face-to-face with shops, people and landmarks like you could never experience by a hop-on hop-off bus or taxi ride. You’ll smell the smells, whether those be good or bad, hear the sounds and interact. Let’s not also forget about the exercise benefits that come from choosing to walk! Those will let you better tackle those https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-fiji.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-fiji.html Fri, 19 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Anyone looking to make the most of their long, and sometimes costly, plane trip down to Australia should consider hitting up the local islands and countries that would otherwise be far, far away. Once you’re in Australia, there are a number of great locations in the South Pacific worth taking a quick hop over to, such as New Zealand , Bali and Fiji. This guide will show you how to get from Sydney https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-brisbane-from-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-brisbane-from-melbourne.html Thu, 18 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 So you’re in Melbourne and you want to get to Brisbane . Depending on the time of year, and your extended travel plans, this can be a very good idea (who wants to freeze in the Melbourne winter, relatively speaking). Maybe you’ve had enough of your backstreet coffee culture and are craving a bit of a laid-back city with a warmer climate. The trek is a long one, taking you all the way from the stat https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-cairns.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-cairns.html Tue, 16 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Some people are completely unaware of the massive size of Australia, and more particularly about the massive distance that goes from Sydney to Cairns – a top tourist destination. Just last year, I did the drive in from Cairns to Sydney and it is a feat that should not be taken in less than a week in my opinion, especially if you actually want to see something along the way. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08162011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08162011.html Mon, 15 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Tickets for the three-day National Achievers Congress start from about $1800 but prime spots at the 10,000-seat event (from where one can, presumably, determine if that hair is real) are currently going for $2995. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-hobart.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-hobart.html Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 There’s an island state to the south of Australia known as Tasmania , and you will want to get from Sydney to Hobart , the capital city, if you want to enjoy a true slice of natural beauty. Tasmania tends to be missing from many travelers’ itineraries because there is a big country to explore and many tend to see the big, big attractions before branching off. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-adelaide.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-sydney-to-adelaide.html Wed, 10 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Adelaide is the South Australian capital city, the fifth largest in Australia, that acts as a gateway to the gorgeous Kangaroo Island and north to the outback towns of Coober Pedy and Alice Springs. There is good reason to make it down to Adelaide from Sydney , whether it be to relax in the city, enjoy a few bottles from the nearby wine regions or to use it as a hub to other nearby experiences. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-perth.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-perth.html Tue, 09 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Perth , for being a capital city of an Australian state, is less visited and less populous than most others because of its distance and remote location on the opposite side of the country. To get a better idea, getting from Brisbane to Perth would be the equivalent (approximately) of getting from New York City to Los Angeles in the United States. In other words, Perth is not close to Brisbane , or https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-in-australia-underground.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-in-australia-underground.html Mon, 08 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Australia’s outback is a land of extremes, and in the summer months it can see summer temperatures in the 50s (Celsius). The outback also has many areas of intense opal mining, such as that of Coober Pedy and White Cliffs. Because of the mining, a small number of bold and entrepreneurial people have challenged themselves to live in this intense environment. How do they do it? https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-giant-koala.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-giant-koala.html Thu, 04 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is a post in an ongoing series on the Big Things in Australia . If you like the post, be sure to follow along by subscribing to my RSS feed . https://australiablog.com/destinations/melbourne/yarra-river-walk-free-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/melbourne/yarra-river-walk-free-melbourne.html Wed, 03 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The city of Melbourne was started from the banks of the Yarra River, a river that runs through central Victoria and is now a main focal point of the city. A nice, leisurely walk along the Yarra River is a good choice for free things to do in Melbourne because it helps visitors get a true escape from the city, exercise, take a peek at art and relax (it’s vacation after all!). https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-from-cairns-to-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-from-cairns-to-darwin.html Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Some of the major cities in the country of Australia are quite a feat to get to and between when not taking a plane. Cairns and Darwin are both located in the northern section of the country and are two such major cities that many would like to know how to get from one to the other. It makes sense, after all, to try and hit the two when already in the northern part of the country, a far cry from S https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/working-holiday-visa-australia-health-requirements.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/working-holiday-visa-australia-health-requirements.html Mon, 01 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0000 I first want to start this post off by explaining that I am not immigration nor am I the source of “official” information when it comes to getting your working holiday visa for Australia. However, I have done the working holiday visa (well, Work and Holiday Visa since I’m American), and I can write about my personal experiences with getting one. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08012011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-08012011.html Sun, 31 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The biggest price increases were in fruit and vegetables, utilities, and holiday travel and accommodation. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/day-trips-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/day-trips-in-australia.html Fri, 29 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One of the main joys of Australia is being able to discover all the natural wonders that lie beyond the city walls. There are rainforests, national parks, gorges, valleys and outback all a ways off to take a peek at, not to mention smaller towns, that require a visit, but maybe not a long stay. That’s when a day trip in Australia is in order. https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-mango-in-bowen.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-mango-in-bowen.html Thu, 28 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is a post in an ongoing series on the Big Things in Australia . If you like the post, be sure to follow along by subscribing to my RSS feed . https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-07272011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-07272011.html Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 FOR Backpackers, Cairns is a haven or heaven. What is it about our city that is so appealing? What can be done to make it even more so? Are you a backpacker? Where does Cairns rate in your Oz experience? https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-from-sydney-to-perth.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-from-sydney-to-perth.html Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Sydney and Perth are at two separate ends of the country of Australia – a driving distance separated by nearly 4000 kilometers of some of the most barren and inhospitable land to grace the earth. As one can expect, getting from Sydney to Perth is no easy feat (unless you jump on a cheap flight !), but I will say that once you get there, you’ll be glad you did. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-perth-from-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-to-perth-from-melbourne.html Tue, 26 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The process of getting from Melbourne to Perth is quite similar to that of getting from Sydney to Perth , but still I think it’s great to cover the topic in a post of its own. The main difference when going from Melbourne to Perth is that many people, when choosing to drive, will drive along the Great Ocean Road on the way out. https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/things-to-do-rainy-day-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/things-to-do-rainy-day-sydney.html Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Sydney, or Australia for that matter, is not the type of place where you expect rain… loads of rain. Unfortunately, this past year has been one of the wettest in decades, and that means any would-be traveler to Sydney may have to deal a little bit here and there with a drizzle or downpour. https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-bench-in-broken-hill.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-bench-in-broken-hill.html Thu, 21 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is a post in an ongoing series on the Big Things in Australia . If you like the post, be sure to follow along by subscribing to my RSS feed . https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/moving-to-oz-resources-finding-a-flat.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/moving-to-oz-resources-finding-a-flat.html Sun, 17 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 In the last post on finding a place to stay in Australia (for more long-term endeavors), I talked about the lessons I learned involving the apartment market here in Sydney. This post is going to be just a little bit more specific and talk about the resources that can help you find a place to rest your head besides a hostel or a hotel. https://australiablog.com/Culture/aussie-language-differences-involving-pronunciation.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/aussie-language-differences-involving-pronunciation.html Fri, 15 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When it comes to the Aussie language, it is sometimes just the pronunciation of a word that can throw you off (especially if you’re American like me). The word can actually be spelled in the exact same way, yet still come out sounding like something foreign. That’s when we have to rely on the old “context” to figure out a meaning (or asking. Asking works.). https://australiablog.com/about-australia/big-lobster-in-kingston.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/big-lobster-in-kingston.html Thu, 14 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is a post in an ongoing series on the Big Things in Australia . If you like the post, be sure to follow along by subscribing to my RSS feed . https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/moving-to-oz-lessons-accommodation.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/moving-to-oz-lessons-accommodation.html Wed, 13 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 You’ve decided to move yourself over to the land of Oz. Aweeeeesome. You’re doing yourself a favor making the move to Australia, whether it’s full-time or just for a working holiday , because you’ll get to experience the beauty of this far-flung country at the speed that is necessary. https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/luxury-hotels-with-sydney-opera-house-view.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/luxury-hotels-with-sydney-opera-house-view.html Sun, 10 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The Sydney Opera House sits on the harbour’s edge, a place it has called home since 1973. With its award-winning design, it has both become an UNESCO World Heritage listed site and an icon for the land Down Under. In other words, you can’t think of Sydney and not think of this magnificent piece of architecture, and you can’t come to Australia without spending a bit of time in its presence. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-07072011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-07072011.html Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 It will take an incredible amount of work for 2011 not to be the greatest summer in the lives of the members of the trio of baseball All-Star teams from Perth, Australia barnstorming the East Coast during July. https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-croc-in-wyndham.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/australias-big-things-the-big-croc-in-wyndham.html Thu, 07 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Crocodiles, and we’re talking the fiercely gigantic salt-water kind, have a home in several areas around Australia, especially in the estuaries that surround the area of Wyndham. https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-3.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-3.html Tue, 05 Jul 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Good movies can transport us to a place, which is why I have been putting out lists of movies for future Australia travelers to watch before heading Down Under. These movies give insight into the place, the people, the culture, the history, the language or the humor of Australia. https://australiablog.com/about-australia/akubra-hat.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/akubra-hat.html Thu, 30 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The Akubra is an iconic piece of rural Aussie gear. With its wide brim, these hats are especially important for those working in the bush and the outback to protect their heads, necks and ears against the harsh elements. Besides protection, the hat was used as a tool: a way to carry items, fan a fire or give dogs a quick drink. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-06302011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-06302011.html Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 According to the distressed guest, the crew member who did the head count was immediately sacked. T https://australiablog.com/wildlife/big-cassowary-mission-beach.html https://australiablog.com/wildlife/big-cassowary-mission-beach.html Wed, 29 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 In tropical Queensland , especially in the area around Mission Beach , it is possible to see one of the most unique and intriguing birds. They are big, flightless, and somewhat resemble a dinosaur. This is the cassowary, a protected species of bird with a bright blue neck and a red wattle. https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-2.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-2.html Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 In case part 1 of the movies about Australia series wasn’t enough, I’ve put together yet another list of movies that cover bits and pieces of the land Down Under. These movies are great for getting into the Aussie spirit or learning about the culture and history before heading out on your upcoming adventure! https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/oz-setting-up-cell-phone.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/oz-setting-up-cell-phone.html Mon, 27 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Anytime you are heading abroad for an extended amount of time, it makes sense to get your cell phone switched over to a local setup. This tip is specifically targeted to those moving abroad to Australia, whether as a permanent expat or a short-term working holiday maker . https://australiablog.com/sports/2011-state-of-origin-game-3.html https://australiablog.com/sports/2011-state-of-origin-game-3.html Fri, 24 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This year’s game three of State of Origin is going to be a real epic show for those watching. It turns out that, despite the Maroons (QLD) having the momentum after winning game one, the Blues (NSW) have prevailed in game two. That’s right! Each team in this rivalry has a win, meaning game three will be the tie-breaker for 2011′s series (and therefore a much more exciting game to watch than 2010′s https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-06242011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-06242011.html Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The previous article with 9 tips to avoid a snake bite while hiking drew a couple of interesting responses and images from our readers about their encounters with Tiger Snakes. https://australiablog.com/current-events/ash-cloud-issue-remains-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/current-events/ash-cloud-issue-remains-in-australia.html Wed, 22 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 As if all the drama over the past week or two wasn’t enough, it turns out that a new ash cloud may well be on its way to the east side of Australia from the country’s southwest. https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-1.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/movies-about-australia-part-1.html Tue, 21 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Sometimes, preparing for a trip can be half the fun of travel. The excitement, the research and the anticipation of knowing you’ll be jetting across the globe all combine to make a simple trip more of an experience. To help with this, I’ve compiled a list (with the help of my lovely Twitter friends) of movies that are about or set in Australia to start watching in preparation of your upcoming trip https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-aussie-icons-to-see-or-try.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-aussie-icons-to-see-or-try.html Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Flight Centre Australia . For more information on sponsored posts read here . https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/iconic-aussie-food-anzac-biscuits.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/iconic-aussie-food-anzac-biscuits.html Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is a post in an ongoing series on iconic Aussie food . Be sure to check back for more, or subscribe to my RSS feed to receive updates automatically to your reader. https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/the-iconic-aussie-foods-list.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/the-iconic-aussie-foods-list.html Fri, 10 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Australia has heaps of good food, and it ranges from Asian to seafood and Aussie to pub grub. You can find all the best types on the famous foods in Australia guide. https://australiablog.com/competitions/follow-the-qantas-wallabies-on-the-great-crusade.html https://australiablog.com/competitions/follow-the-qantas-wallabies-on-the-great-crusade.html Thu, 09 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 There’s a travel and sports competition out there right now that I thought you Rugby Union fanatics would like to know about. It’s called the Great Crusade , and by being a part of this competition you could win the ULTIMATE prize: the chance to tour New Zealand in one of 25 campervans, experiencing the thrill of travel and cheering on the Qantas Wallabies in the process! https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-hobart-to-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-hobart-to-sydney.html Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Getting from Hobart to Sydney is a route that is questioned by many travelers especially since Hobart lies on the southern island state of Tasmania. The most direct option for travel from Hobart to Sydney would be a budget flight, but you can also mix it up with a combination of flights, ferries and trains for a more adventurous option. https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/a-night-at-the-fothergills-of-fremantle-is-like-a-night-in-an-art-gallery.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/a-night-at-the-fothergills-of-fremantle-is-like-a-night-in-an-art-gallery.html Mon, 06 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When planning a stay over in Fremantle , Western Australia, I made it a point to do it right by picking a night in one of the architectural delights that have been converted into a bed and breakfast. For this occasion, I chose the Fothergills of Fremantle , a group of three 19th century mansion style houses on Monument Hill that are now the home to a 4 star accommodation option for the traveler se https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/cheap-hostels-in-airlie-beach.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/cheap-hostels-in-airlie-beach.html Sun, 05 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 In case you’re not much of a big spender on the road, Airlie Beach has plenty of cheap hostels to choose from for those making their way to the Whitsunday Islands . https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-in-airlie-beach.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hotels-in-airlie-beach.html Wed, 01 Jun 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Airlie Beach , the launching point for holiday trips to the glorious Whitsunday Islands , is a bustling little beach town that deserves a visit, when you’re going sailing in the Whitsundays the next day or not. If you like tropical, then this area of Queensland will make for a treat. Be sure to read about the top 10 things to do in Airlie Beach before heading out. https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/three-bags-full-cafe-melbourne.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/three-bags-full-cafe-melbourne.html Tue, 31 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This guest post is brought to you by Heather Rudd of There’s No Place Like Oz . Heather spent the previous year of her life traveling (and eating) her way around Australia, so here’s one of the tasty tips she has to share: https://australiablog.com/events-festivals/vivid-sydney-on-right-now.html https://australiablog.com/events-festivals/vivid-sydney-on-right-now.html Fri, 27 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Vivid Sydney is one of my favorite events of the year, and if you’re here to enjoy it (it starts tonight!), you’ll understand why. Although this festival is a mix of different features like art and music, it’s the lights that really make it something special. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-05262011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-05262011.html Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 I’m a geeky quote junkie who’s been collecting my favorite quotes in a journal since the mid-90′s (God I’m getting old, that seems like just yesterday). Here’s a collection of 25 quotes I turn to when I need a little inspiration. https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/small-bars-in-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/small-bars-in-sydney.html Wed, 25 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Fewer people, a unique atmosphere, cosy set-up – what’s not to like about small bars? https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hostels-in-the-rocks-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hostels-in-the-rocks-sydney.html Tue, 24 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The Rocks is the part of Sydney where Sydney began. The streets are overflowing with the feeling of history, right down to the cobblestones under your feet. The Rocks is a fun place to hang out and grab a beer, and it is also a great place to spend the night since it boasts harbourside views and atmosphere. You really can’t go wrong choosing to venture there in the morning, noon or night! https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hostels-near-bondi-beach.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/hostels-near-bondi-beach.html Mon, 23 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 You can fly to Sydney and easily stick yourself in the middle of the city and then proceed to explore all the suburbs of this spread-out concrete jungle. Or, you can surround yourself in a completely different vibe with a fully beach environment, with which comes the truly casual, the truly Aussie lifestyle. https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/nude-beaches-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/places-to-go/nude-beaches-in-australia.html Sun, 22 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 With thousands of miles of coastline, Australia is blessed with some of the world’s best beaches , and it just so happens that a fair few of them are deemed legally nude. So, if you’re the type of person that wants to feel at one with nature as you frolic carelessly into the crashing waves of the ocean, or if you just want to experience the “no tan lines” look, then Australia should be on your lis https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-around-in-perth.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-around-in-perth.html Tue, 17 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Getting around in Perth is a completely different ballgame to getting around in Sydney . In Perth, the living is spread out and on a much smaller scale. This fact is apparent in the way the main city trains have less carriages, and there are wide city streets to back that up. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-05142011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-05142011.html Fri, 13 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This interview is part of a series on Travel in Australia through the eyes of travellers. Backpacking Australia is popular for people on a working holiday Australia visa. https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/fremantle-architecture-cafe-culture.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/fremantle-architecture-cafe-culture.html Fri, 13 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Freo makes for a popular stop on any trip to the Perth area of Australia because of its particular city flair and style. Visitors can immediately notice the unique vibe of this coastal port city from the ornate architecture that lines the streets. Small cafes and shops pop out of the little nooks and crannies of side streets, and good beer is never too far away. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-to-do-during-the-australian-winter-sponsored-post.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/things-to-do-during-the-australian-winter-sponsored-post.html Wed, 11 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This post is brought to you by Insure & Go . For more information on sponsored posts read here . https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/perth-attractions-kings-park.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/perth-attractions-kings-park.html Thu, 05 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Kings Park and Botanic Gardens is an oasis in Perth set on a hillside near the Swan River over 400 hectares of land. There are monuments, walking paths, cafes and other attractions to partake in at the park, but one of the best is just the simple act of being in the outdoors with spectacular views of both Perth and the river. https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/where-to-stay-in-perth-the-miss-maud-hotel-has-swedish-elegance.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/where-to-stay-in-perth-the-miss-maud-hotel-has-swedish-elegance.html Mon, 02 May 2011 12:00:00 +0000 There’s a hotel in downtown Perth that has a bright maroon exterior with all the ornate trimmings you could imagine. The bold wooden doors and the flower buckets on the outside of the windows scream Europe to anyone that passes, and the awning will let you know that this hotel is one of Swedish elegance. https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/getting-to-cottesloe-beach.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/perth/getting-to-cottesloe-beach.html Sat, 30 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Cottesloe is a Perth suburb that is known for having one great beach and even better sunsets. It is a picture perfect example of suburban life with clean surrounds and nice houses, all lined with the prominent Norfolk Island pine trees. In Cottesloe, just 15 minutes west of Perth, you can spend the day unwinding on the sand, splashing in the water, or just chilling in the grass with a picnic or ge https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/perth-day-trips-swan-valley.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/perth-day-trips-swan-valley.html Sat, 30 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 The Swan Valley is like the ultimate day trip getaway near Perth . Located just 25 minutes outside of the city, the valley opens up a number of options for things to do beyond the typical wine trail for which it is generally known. There’s food, art, beer and scenic nature to indulge in on your trip to the Swan Valley. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/rottnest-island-travel-guide.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/rottnest-island-travel-guide.html Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Rottnest Island would be considered one of the must-see attractions in Western Australia. This tiny island, 19 kilometers off the coast near Fremantle, acts as a getaway for locals and tourists alike who come to experience the pristine beaches and seclusion. Rotto, as it’s commonly called, acts as a class “A” reserve meaning it is kept clean and under-developed. In other words, you go to Rotto to https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/travel-documentary-career-in-oz.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/travel-documentary-career-in-oz.html Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 World Nomads is at it again. This company, known for being a top provider of adventure travel insurance , has teamed up with World Expeditions to give you the chance to start a travel documentary career right here in Australia! So, Aussie lovers, take notice. This could be the chance you’re looking for! https://australiablog.com/about-australia/two-up-legal-on-anzac-day.html https://australiablog.com/about-australia/two-up-legal-on-anzac-day.html Sat, 16 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 ANZAC Day is a big public holiday in Australia; I would liken it to Memorial Day in the USA since its purpose is to remember the people who served and those who lost their lives in war. Each year on April 25th, there is a parade, veterans dress up in uniform, and after the gathering, everyone heads to the RSLs and select pubs for a morning beer and some games of two-up. https://australiablog.com/wildlife/why-swimming-with-wild-dolphins-rocks.html https://australiablog.com/wildlife/why-swimming-with-wild-dolphins-rocks.html Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 There are several places in the world where you can get in the water with the sleek creature, but where can you go and get up close and personal with a wild dolphin? You know, the ones that aren’t there just for a tourist attraction, or the ones that aren’t fed on a regular basis so that they come to you expecting a feed? https://australiablog.com/wildlife/the-st-andrews-cross-spider.html https://australiablog.com/wildlife/the-st-andrews-cross-spider.html Sun, 10 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Warning: The images in this post might frighten you, but it is always good to know what you may encounter on your Aussie adventures. Don’t let this influence your decision to catch a flight to Australia ! https://australiablog.com/wildlife/an-ode-to-the-quokka.html https://australiablog.com/wildlife/an-ode-to-the-quokka.html Thu, 07 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Australia has brought out the animal lover in me and bumped it up to another level. There certainly are some cool native animals in Australia , and even though my all-time favorite is probably still the rock wallaby , I recently ran into the quokka over on Rottnest Island and cuteness overload! https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/have-a-look-out-my-window-from-sydney-to-perth.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/have-a-look-out-my-window-from-sydney-to-perth.html Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:00:00 +0000 I spent a large part of my 65 hours on the Indian Pacific train staring out the window at the passing scenery, and I would say that the biggest response from people following along was them waiting to see my photos. Australia is a beautiful land, and I feel lucky to have experienced the views of the land that is considered untouchable by most. https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/the-indian-pacifics-whistle-stop-tours.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/the-indian-pacifics-whistle-stop-tours.html Tue, 29 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When you’re taking a train, specifically the Indian Pacific train , across the entire country of Australia – a ride that lasts for 65 hours – you are really going to want to get out and stretch your legs on normal ground whenever the opportunity arises. Great Southern Rail understands that, and that’s why they’ve put together little whistle stop tours for the times where there is extra minutes at https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/indian-pacific-whistle-stop-tours-cook.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/indian-pacific-whistle-stop-tours-cook.html Sat, 26 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Somewhere along the lines on the 2nd day of the Indian Pacific train ride, you’ll get the chance to experience a real ghost town in the outback. There are literally only a handful of people that live in Cook today, but at one time it was a pretty popular settlement along the train line. Being located 1100km from Adelaide and 1500km from Perth , it was an important outpost area on a very long stret https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/indian-pacific-whistle-stop-tours-broken-hill.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/indian-pacific-whistle-stop-tours-broken-hill.html Thu, 24 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 It’s a crazy long journey (65 hours to be exact) on the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth , so most people are going to want to get out and stretch their legs, and maybe even learn a thing or two about the town they have just arrived in. Broken Hill is the first stop off (an hour long) on the ride when going from Sydney to Perth, and I had to check it out so I could let others know a bit more ab https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/australia-in-the-southern-fall.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/australia-in-the-southern-fall.html Mon, 21 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Summer went by in a blur this year and fall has fallen upon Australia, but that doesn’t mean that the travel season is over. Not in Australia! The travel season is year-round (that’s how cool it is here). So, what do you need to know before heading down under in March , April or May ? I’m so glad you asked. https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/getting-from-brisbane-to-sydney.html Fri, 18 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Getting from Brisbane to Sydney and the other way is a popular path to take. Tourists in Sydney are now discovering Brisbane to be a really cool city, and it also makes for a good hub when traveling to far north Queensland , but they often have to get back to Sydney when it is all said and done. Whatever the reason, getting to Sydney from Brisbane is a popular trip that can be taken by car, bus, t https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-surfie-speak.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-surfie-speak.html Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is part of an ongoing series of posts on my favorite Aussie slang. Be sure to check back for updates, or subscribe to my RSS feed to get updates to your reader automatically. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-03152011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-03152011.html Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Severe floods in Western Australia's East Kimberley region have forced evacuations and destroyed 45 homes, while 20 homes remain uninhabitable. https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/americans-forget-your-lemon-poppy-seed-theres-only-orange-in-australia.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/americans-forget-your-lemon-poppy-seed-theres-only-orange-in-australia.html Thu, 10 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Mornings from when I lived in America were filled with choices for muffins – everything from chocolate chip and blueberry to lemon poppy seed. Yes, the latter was my favorite, especially those giant ones from Perkins coated in a thick layer of cream cheese icing (*drools*). They are definitely not healthy in any way, shape or form, but they sure do taste good. https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-how-ya-going.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-how-ya-going.html Tue, 08 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is part of an ongoing series of posts on my favorite Aussie slang. Be sure to check back for updates, or subscribe to my RSS feed to get updates to your reader automatically. For more tips on how to speak like an Aussie, check out this Australian language guide . https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-things-to-see-and-do-along-the-nullarbor.html https://australiablog.com/planning-a-trip/top-10-things-to-see-and-do-along-the-nullarbor.html Mon, 07 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This guest post is brought to you by Rachael Taft from Girl, Unmapped , a girl who has been living in Australia for the past year. She’s put together this amazing piece on what exactly there is to do and see if you’re driving out across the Nullarbor, one of the most unique experiences you can have in Australia. Enjoy! https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-03072011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-03072011.html Sun, 06 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 ONE of the strongest La Niña's on record has ensured summer 2010-11 has been the second wettest on record for Australia. https://australiablog.com/transportation/cheap-flights-from-sydney-to-singapore.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/cheap-flights-from-sydney-to-singapore.html Thu, 03 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Heading to Australia opens up the perfect opportunity for jetting over to Southeast Asia. Especially for North Americans and Europeans who have already taken the time to get to the South Pacific, a stop in Asia is really only a quick jump. So how can you go about getting from one major city in each – namely Sydney to Singapore – cheaply? https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-rooftop-bars.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/sydney-rooftop-bars.html Tue, 01 Mar 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When the weather is awesome in the summer, spring and fall in Sydney, who would really want to drink indoors? Australia is a land where the outdoors need to be appreciated, and that’s why rooftop bars in the city are so fantastic. Not looking for a stuffy pub to waste the glorious weather in? Look no further than this list of Sydney rooftop joints: https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/quality-budget-eats-sleeps-drinks-sydney.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/sydney/quality-budget-eats-sleeps-drinks-sydney.html Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When I talk about “quality budget” eats, sleeps and drinks in Sydney, I’m referring to places that offer you the most bang for your buck, whether that be through offering a spectacular city view or loads of food for the price. Sydney is not really a budget backpacker’s dream, but with this list, at least you can get the most for the money that you do spend while in this multicultural city. https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-beach-terms.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-beach-terms.html Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is part of an ongoing series of posts on my favorite Aussie slang. Be sure to check back for updates, or subscribe to my RSS feed to get updates to your reader automatically. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-02272011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-02272011.html Sat, 26 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 When it comes to crazy-cool engineering, nobody can top ze Germans. If it’s even vaguely plausible, you can bet that some German crackpot inventor has done it. Well, now two Germans – Stefan Simmerer and Dirk Gion – have broken three Guinness World Records in a … wait for it … wind turbine powered electric car. https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/hard-rock-cafe-gold-coast.html https://australiablog.com/food-and-beverage/hard-rock-cafe-gold-coast.html Fri, 25 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One of the things that really gets me personally when I travel is the lack of comfort foods – foods that taste like home. This is actually a slight problem even in Australia where life is obviously a little different. I can rant all I want about burgers having beetroot on them (huh?) and there not being good Mexican food, but I rediscovered something lovely while visiting the Hard Rock Cafe in the https://australiablog.com/sports/day-at-sydney-cricket-grounds.html https://australiablog.com/sports/day-at-sydney-cricket-grounds.html Tue, 22 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Since I wouldn’t really consider myself a sports buff, I haven’t really talked much about sports here on WhyGo Australia. To remedy this issue — since Australian’s love footy and cricket — I’ve recruited my pal, Tony of It’s Good Overseas , to give us all a run-down on a day at the cricket here in Sydney . It’s a rather informative and amusing read, so enjoy! https://australiablog.com/destinations/darwin/day-trips-from-darwin.html https://australiablog.com/destinations/darwin/day-trips-from-darwin.html Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Darwin , the Northern Territory capital city located up in the Top End of Australia, is a dream destination for many travelers, but more so because of the unique land that surrounds it. If you get to Darwin and fail to leave the city center, you are definitely missing out on some of the best reasons to get to this part of Australia in the first place. https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-bikies-and-bikkies.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-bikies-and-bikkies.html Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is part of an ongoing series of posts on my favorite Aussie slang. Be sure to check back for updates, or subscribe to my RSS feed to get updates to your reader automatically. https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-02212011.html https://australiablog.com/travel-news/australia-travel-news-02212011.html Sun, 20 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Tourism New Zealand boss Kevin Bowler is worried about the prospects for the key Australian tourism market, the source of nearly half of all international visitors. https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-to-broken-hill-from-adelaide.html https://australiablog.com/transportation/how-to-get-to-broken-hill-from-adelaide.html Fri, 18 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 Did you know that Adelaide is the closest major city to Broken Hill? Well, it makes sense seeing how Broken Hill is actually just near the South Australia border and only 6 hours away from this capital city. So, instead of assuming that people from Sydney are going to travel the 15 hours by car that it takes to get to Broken Hill, I thought I should take the time to target a better audience: those https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/cheap-hostels-in-hunter-valley.html https://australiablog.com/Accommodation/cheap-hostels-in-hunter-valley.html Thu, 17 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 One of the best ways to get out of Sydney city is to take a weekend trip to the Hunter Valley, an area to the north of Sydney known for it’s glorious wines. It’s a great place to get out into nature, have picnics with friends in the summer, sit by the fireplace with a bottle of wine in winter and just get some fresh air at any time of the year. The Hunter Valley can be anything from romantic to pl https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-chook.html https://australiablog.com/Culture/favorite-australian-slang-chook.html Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:00:00 +0000 This is part of an ongoing series of posts on my favorite Aussie slang. Be sure to check back for updates, or subscribe to my RSS feed to get updates to your reader automatically.