Destination: Australia
Northern
Territory
Many people who visit Australia come seeking not high
society and posh lodgings, but the chance to see the undeveloped
Outback and soak in the raw wilderness. Perhaps no place is better
for this than Australia's most sparsely populated area, the Northern
Territory. This region has no shortage of parks to explore, ranging
from the lushly tropical coastal areas to the rocky deserts of
Australia's interior. The desert is home to the famed Uluru, or
Ayer's Rock, an ancient and sacred mountain that is one of
Australia's most stunning natural treasures.
South
Australia
If you continue southwards, on the other side of
Australia's inhospitable interior you will find the state of South
Australia. This state is also wide and empty, with much of its
population living in the capital of Adelaide and the fertile areas
along the coast and rivers. South Australia is known for its
grape-friendly climate and vineyards. From the Barossa valley comes
some of Australia's most esteemed Shiraz and if you happen to get the
chance, don't miss the Barossa Valley Vintage Festival and Barossa Valley Hotels.
New
South Wales
Big cities, busy ports, and lots of people await in
Sydney, capital of Australia's most populous state. New South Wales
draws great numbers of tourists to its lengthy coastline and
innumerable beaches, but the region's Great Dividing Range also
provides ample opportunity for hiking, skiing, and other alpine
pursuits. Sydney is the center of industry and entertainment in
Australia, and visitors to the historic town of Coff's Harbour can
enjoy the continent's “most livable climate.”
Western
Australia
This state, consisting as it does of the entire western
third of the continent, is Australia's largest. In the southeastern
corner of the state is Perth, the capital city that is home to a full
three quarters of the state's entire population. Mining accounts for
most of the activity in the arid interior area. The coastal areas
harbor important agricultural centers. Thanks to its unique climate,
the Margaret River area has become famous for the quality and flavor
of its prolific wine industry.
Queensland
Perhaps the most
popular tourist destination in Australia is Queensland. With a warm
tropical north and a mild temperate climate in the south, this is one
of the more comfortable regions. Queensland's capital of Brisbane has
grown substantially in recent years as its strengthening economy
attracts more and more residents. Queensland is where you'll find
some of Australia's most famous attractions. The Gold Coast is here
and the tourist hotspot of Port Douglas serves as home base for
visitors to the gorgeous Great Barrier Reef. If you decide to visit this area you can stay in Port Douglas Hotels.
