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Exploring the Kimberley Region: More Than Your Average Walkabout
Friday, January 20th, 2012 /

The Australian outback covers many miles of wide open spaces and is the perfect place to get away from it all. But don’t expect too much relaxation. The outback is a paradise for those who like adventure, but can be a dangerous place if you don’t know what you’re doing. The best way to explore these stunningly beautiful areas is to take a guided tour given by experts. Best of the Kimberly offers an exciting variety of tours. They plan all the details so you can be assured a never-to-be-forgotten trip. The following is a list of tours available, along with highlights. All tours are small group, guided, four-wheel drive tours and last from 8 to 12 days. Tours are available at various times from April to October.

Australian outback

The Outback Tour
This tour begins in Perth and ends in Alice Springs. It includes the goldfields of Coolgardie and Kalgoorlie, along with some fascinating ghost towns. You will travel the Gunbarrel highway to Giles Weather station. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park offers a cultural experience you will never forget. Other sights along the way include Kings Canyon, Palm Valley, the Finke River and the amazing MacDonnell mountain ranges.

Birdsville & Corner Country Tracks
Departing from Adelaide, this challenging tour is appropriate for those who are physically fit and can tolerate the extreme conditions of the outback. It offers opportunities to relive the adventure of the pioneers and see their historic homesteads. Highlights include the Ridgetop tour at the rugged Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, which displays the wonder of Flinders mountain ranges. The Tibooburra region gives you glimpses into the past with the Dig Tree, the most famous tree in Australia; and ancient aboriginal culture can be explored at Mungo National Park.

Port Lincoln & Flinders Ranges
For a fascinating tour that also departs from Adelaide, but travels along the coast of South Australia, you are sure to be delighted with sightings of sea lions, dolphins and tuna fish as well as the beautiful scenery of Clare Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region. Other highlights include Coffin Bay and a Beard Bay Cruise. At the conclusion of your journey you will stay at the gorgeous Wilpena Pound in Flinder’s ranges.

Flinders Ranges

Cape York 4WD Wilderness
For those who appreciate history as well as diverse scenery, this tour will take you from the vivacious city of Cairns to the wilderness of Cape York through lush rainforests, on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and a cruise across Endeavor Strait. You will experience the history of Thursday Island, which played a significant role in World War II. As an added bonus, you will travel back to Cairns by air, to give you a whole different perspective of this breathtaking region.

Visiting Australia? For a unique experience consider Australian Outback Tours. Best of the Kimberley offer a range of tours across the Kimberley region, including walking tours, driving tours, wilderness retreats, guided tours and even Kimberley cruises.

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Five of the Best Horse Riding Trails in Australia
Sunday, November 27th, 2011 /

Kosciusko National Park

Australia’s Snowy Mountains are a big part of Australia’s history and folklore. First immortalized by Australian bush poet, Banjo Paterson, the legend of the Snowy Mountains and its rugged horsemen was further expanded in the popular film, The Man from Snowy River. Now part of Kosciusko National Park, the Snowy Mountains are can still be experienced on horseback just as they were by the legendary 19th century cattlemen. Trail rides ranging from easy half day excursions to multi-day treks and even cattle mustering on Dennison Plains are available.

Tamborine Mountain, Queensland

Queensland’s Gold Coast is best known for its beaches, highrises and theme parks, but less than an hour’s drive from Surfers Paradise is a lesser known paradise. Tamborine Mountain Trail Rides has been in operation since 2009 and takes riders on trails through the stunningly beautiful Thunderbird Park in the foothills of Tamborine Mountain. Wind your way through fragrant rainforests. Stop for a rest on the banks of a crystal clear mountain stream and view the strange geological formations known as “thunder eggs” – all in a single day of easy to moderate riding.

spyder taffy-large

Noosa and the Sunshine Coast

Enjoy the best of the sun and the surf on horseback in Noosa on Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast. Three times Olympian equestrian Alex Watson operates Equathon Horse Riding Adventures out of Noosa. Winner of Queensland’s Adventure Tour Operator of the Year award in 2011, Equathon’s riding treks include rides along long empty beaches on Noosa’s north shore and through the Noosa hinterland’s extensive trail network.

beach-ride

Mt. Bundy, Northern Territory

The “top end” of Australia is known as a wild and sparsely settled corner of Australia. Scott and Sue Witham run a cattle station on the banks of the Adelaide River at the foot of Mt. Bundy. Originally, the couple intended to receive just a few visitors to their cattle station, but so many came and wanted to experience horse riding on a working cattle station, they felt compelled to oblige. Included in a day’s ride around Mt. Bundy can be a stopover at a natural hot springs, followed by a refreshing “shower” beneath a cascading waterfall. Riders of all levels of ability can be catered to at Mt. Bundy.

Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

Cradle Mountain, Lake St. Clare National Park, in northwest Tasmania, has an international reputation for being one of the most beautiful places on earth. A company called Cradle Country Adventures offers riders treks throughout the Mersey Valley, which skirts the edge of Cradle Mountain. Rides are tailored to riders’ abilities and desires. You can ride all day through old-growth eucalypt and myrtle forests and open plains or spend some time hanging out on the banks of the Mersey River. Owner Ray Becker plans to extend his offerings to include longer treks through the Tasmanian Trail, which extends from Devonport to Dover, a distance of over 250 miles.

Rob writes about popular things to do and see in Australia. If planning a vacation in Australia check out a great range of Snowy Mountains accommodation and other great holiday accommodation across Australia.

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How Best To Enjoy a Working Holiday in Australia
Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011 /

If you have ever wanted to travel Australia, a working holiday visa is the best way to do so. Now you can financially support your travels in Australia by working in the country. Obtaining a working holiday visa is quite easy and it can open you up to a whole new experience and lifestyle. You will also be able to meet local people and learn much more about Australian culture than as a simple traveller and these connections can also lead to greater opportunities in the future.

Sydney Australia

The Requirements

There are two types of work visas that foreigners can apply for. The first visa is open to every country except for the United States which is the working holiday Visa. For citizens of the United States that hold a US passport, they can apply for an Australian Work and Holiday Visa. To be eligible for these visas, you must be between the ages of 18 and 30. You must also be able to show that you can support yourself in Australia upon your arrival until you find a job. The last requirement is that your passport is valid and has at least one year of validity before it needs to be renewed.

Conditions of Work Holiday Visas

There are a few conditions that go along with having a work holiday visa. You cannot have a criminal conviction or have life threatening medical issues to be considered. You also have to abide by the laws stipulated by the visa. You can only work with a single employer for 6 months. However, you can stay in Australia for up to 24 months. This means that after every 6 months you must change employment. Although this may sound challenging, being able to change occupations every 6 months offers you the ability to change living locations and expand your professional experience. The first working holiday visa that you submit for must be made outside of Australia. Once you hold a work holiday visa you can renew it within Australia.

Staying in Australia

Travellers who decide to work in horticulture (working on farms – such as fruit picking) have the opportunity to stay in Australia for up to two years. Most other work holiday visas are only valid for one year. There are many different types of employment that you can choose from in Australia such as working in restaurants, pubs and hostels. You may decide to stay in the same town as your first job or you may want to explore working in another region after your six months are up. The most common types of work are seasonal harvesting jobs such as picking bananas in Tully all year round and harvesting tomatoes in Bowen from July to November. Travellers may also decide to work in any temporary position in hospitality. You can also travel in and out of Australia while holding your work visa. You do not have to stay in the country for the entire length of your visa.

Where to Visit in Australia?

There are so many unique places to visit in Australia. You might want to take advantage of your working holiday visa to visit all of the hot spots. Besides dwelling in any big city that is surrounded by culture, Australia has numerous nature destinations that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. For example, the Great Barrier Reef has amazing snorkeling and you can have the opportunity to see dwarf minke Whales, olive ridley and flat back turtles, humpback dolphins and salt water crocodiles. Other places that you should visit while on your work holiday visa include Mount Kosciuszko, Ningaloo Marine Park, one or a few of Tasmania’s great festivals, Barossa’s grape valley, the Whitsunday’s islands in Queensland and a little shopping in Melbourne.

Whitsunday’s islands

There is a lot to do in Australia and nothing makes it better than being able to financially support yourself while traveling. Applying for a working holiday visa is easy and you can get started right away. You will have the liberty to travel all around this great country and create a unique experience for yourself that no one else will be able to replicate.

Kristy writes for DriveMyCarRentals a novel peer to peer car rental community. Do you want to save up to 70% on standard car rental fares? Have a look on the web-site then. Whether you are looking for car rentals in Sydney or Brisbane, DriveMyCarRentals.com.au has something for everybody.

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Top 15 Places To Travel With Kids In Australia
Monday, August 15th, 2011 /

Australia is a very family-friendly country, giving parents and guardians plenty of affordable and fun activities for their kids. Each state within Australia has many exciting delights for your kids; all of these delights can be enjoyed by the adults in the family as well! Here are several child-worthy delights, listed according to locations.

New South Wales

1. Australian National Maritime Museum

The Australian maritime museum will delight your kids with its display of Australian Maritime history, with the sea routes and Australian waterways enchantingly reproduced. Your kids can participate in various creative activities including the Kids Deck, a simulated ship deck for kids to learn naval basics.

National Maritime Museum

2. New South Wales Beaches

Apart from the generally well known Bondi and Manly beaches, New South Wales has several other perfect totally free beaches for family fun. Take your kids to one of several well-patrolled beaches, to swim while being watched by the famous Surf Lifesavers.

Sydney

3. Sydney Wildlife World

With over 6000 uniquely Australian animals thriving in their natural ecosystems and habitats, the Sydney Wildlife World is a not-to-miss trip for your kids. Located in the heart of the picturesque Darling Harbor, your kids will love the scenery, while watching the movements of possums, snakes, butterflies, quolls and birds.

Queensland

4. Queensland Beaches

If your kids love frolicking on the beach, then you should definitely consider the famous beaches of Queensland. Noosa Head, the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and the Great Barrier Reef provide endless opportunities for adventure. Take them riding in glass-bottomed boats, through which they can view the varied sea life. For older kids, diving and snorkeling are a great option. Check out the Wet’n’Wild Water World, a lovely theme park located on the Gold Coast.

5. Australia Zoo

You can never go wrong by taking your kids to see the spectacular Australia Zoo, an hour’s drive north of Brisbane. If your kids have ever watched documentaries by the master crocodile hunter, Steve Irwin, the Australia Zoo must be a familiar sight. Still, the vastness and the amazing showcase of fantastic animals and wildlife action is to be experienced. Your kids can watch crocodiles being fed, and pet large live pythons, feed Asian Elephants, and marvel at the Bengal Tigers.

South Australia

6. Adelaide Zoo

The Adelaide Zoo boats over 1400 native and exotic animals designed to thrill kids. Your kids will love watching large and small reptiles, mammals, all kinds of fish including sharks and various birds in their natural environments.

7. Monarto Zoological Park

The Monarto Zoological Park is spread on the vastness of a 1,000 hectare property, located at an easy distance of 45 minutes from Adelaide. This zoological park breeds endangered and rare species of wildlife, in safe sanctuary. These animals include the white Rhinoceros. You’ll also find Australia’s largest Giraffe herd in this park. Climb aboard a safari bus with your kids, or go on a walking tour to reacquaint yourself with the splendor nature.

Victoria

8. Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit

Kids that are inclined towards extreme sports will love this track. Take double and triple laps around the circuit accompanied by an experienced racing driver. Take your kids to view a display of motorsports that include cars and bikes of classic, vintage and contemporary make. Take a tour of the place and explore all aspects, including the grand prix Control Tower, Pit lane, and Pit Roof and Media Centre.

9. Melbourne Aquarium

Take your kids to watch over 10,000 aquatic animals frolic and swim in the Melbourne Aquarium. This aquarium also includes some great views of aquatic creates, with glass fronted underwater displays, fish pillars, feeding sessions, aquatic presentations and four levels of unmitigated aquatic fun.

Melbourne Aquarium

Tasmania

10. Tahune Forest Airwalk

The Tahune Forest Airwalk is a 20 minute loop over two swinging bridges, located on the banks of the Huon River. Although it sounds dangerous, the swinging bridges are safe. In fact, you’ll find many picnic tables and shelters for travelers to eat, rest and enjoy the marvelous natural surroundings.

Canberra

11. National Zoo and Aquarium

Five minutes from the centre of Canberra the zoo houses animals in large open environments setup for easy viewing of the animals. You can see native and exotic animals including tigers, lions and bears. Tours are available for close up encounters with the cuddly animals and hand feeding of the larger animals.

12. The Bird Walk

Located just outside Canberra is another delight for kids. Housing 500 indigenous and exotic birds, the Bird Walk is a delight to explore. Take your kids and walk on the walkways, while watching these colorful birds fly about in the aviary. Your kids can also feed some baby parrots.

13. National Museum Of Australia

The National Museum of Australia is a great place for kids to explore Australia – the land, its history, culture and people. Everything from the native population of Australia, tribal artifacts, relics from the European settlement to present day Australia’s development can be found here. For kids, the kids’ play and discovery area called ‘Our Place’, provides an interactive learning experience.

Ballarat

14. Sovereign Hill

A trip to Sovereign Hill is all you need to know how the goldfields of old used to operate. This large, recreated goldfields township is set over 25 hectares, on a natural, rich alluvial goldfield. This site allows people to pan for gold, see how gold is segregated and sorted, and ‘pretend to be gold miners. Kids can see how it used to be in those days, including the costumes, attitudes and prejudices of old gold miners.

Perth

15. Whiteman Park Recreation and Conservation Reserve

Perth’s Whiteman Park Recreation and Conservation Reserve has tons of bushwalking trails, bike and walk paths, a birds of prey centre, sports facilities, playgrounds, a wildlife park, picnic shelters and so on. With over 4,300 hectares of land, free entrance and a short 25 minute drive from Perth, this reserve is a great place to spend a whole day with kids.

Teena Celis is an avid traveller and works as content writer for gift for men Adrenaline that provides a large range of flying and driving experiences like rally car driving, helicopter rides, hot air ballooning, parasailing all across Australia.

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Penguins to Prom Two Day Tour
Tuesday, March 09th, 2010 /

visionsofvictoria919890-302Southern Australia is a special part of the world—one of the last inhabitable places before the South Pole. Rocky coastlines border vast forests abundant with wildlife. A bustling metropolis showcases modern Australia. See the best of the big city, national parks, and native wildlife along the way through an intimate, small-group tour with Australian Coastal and Mountain “Penguins to Prom” two-day tour. Enjoy lunch and dinner provided on Day 1, as well as a full breakfast and a BBQ picnic on Day 2. Refreshments are provided throughout the Penguins to Prom experience.

Tours begin in Australia’s most European city, Melbourne. Known for its café culture, winding alleyways, and beautiful architecture, Melbourne exemplifies Australia’s past and future. The “Penguins to Prom” tour starts with admission to the Eureka Skydeck, an observation deck far above the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s streets. See the winding Yarra River, the die-hard footy fans in the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground), and the not-so-far away mountains beyond the cityscape. Afterwards, enjoy the Philip Bay coastline on the way to Mornington Peninsula, a sleepy fishing village south of the city. See the true Australia in small-town life along the way. Head to nearby Hastings to catch the Philip Island Ferry across the bay. Observe Melbourne’s skyline in the far distance as the tour heads to Philip Island, home of the famous “little penguins” who emerge from the sea each day at dusk to return to their nests in the sand. Hundreds of these miniature black-and-white penguins waddle across the sand, creating a rare wildlife show for visitors to observe. After a day of sighseeing in the city and the sea, the tour returns to one of two luxury resorts in nearby Inverloch—Silver Water or RAVC. Tour includes twin accommodation at either resort.

The Australian experience continues on Day 2 as the tour heads to one of Victoria’s most loved nature reserves—Wilson’s Promontory National Park, affectionately known to locals as the Prom. See wildlife exclusive to the Australian bush: wallabies, kangaroos, wombats, and other beautiful birdlife. Experience fern gullies and a stringybark forest during a trek to Mt. Bishop Summitt, a moderate 3.7 km track with beautiful coastal views from the top. A rewarding BBQ picnic will be prepared before leaving the park and heading back to the big city.

Experience the best of both worlds—big city and rural life, all in the span of a few days. Charge for the “Penguins to Prom” tour is $625.00 per person, which includes admission to the Eureka Skydeck, Philip Island Ferry, Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Center and park entree to Wilson’s Promontory. Accomodation at either luxury resort in Inverloch, as well as transportation, is also included in the price. Make the most of your Australian experience by taking advantage of the intimate setting provided by Australian Coastal and Mountain Tours, as well as the vast knowledge of their staff and tour guides.

Visit Australian Coastal Mountain Tours for more information about this tour and other available tours.

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