Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Australian Secrets - The Hidden Places They Don't Want You To Find

By Jennifer Schellington

Looking for Australia Travel Tips and the best places to visit in Australia?

You've no doubt got a few places in mind like Ayers Rock, Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef. To make your holiday extra memorable, you should incorporate some hidden gems that only the locals know about. Quite rightly, they want to keep these places all to themselves, but I'm breaking the code and offering you some beautiful places that you can add to your trip.

The Beaches around Sydney

Whilst Bondi Beach is THE Sydney beach on most people's list, there are other beaches that warrant a visit. I find Bondi overcrowded and full of back packers. The main Campbell parade which is the row of shops behind the beach has recently had a face lift so has lost its tacky image. Whilst you should go look at Bondi, don't spend too much time here. If you want to enjoy a coffee or lunch here head up Hall Street (Ravesis is on the corner) You'll find much better food and nicer cafes here than on the main Campbell Parade.

Instead of sitting on Bondi, take the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee. It's a moderate walk but there are hills and steps so make sure you don't attempt this in the mid-day sun. The views are stunning as the walk takes you directly along the edge of the cliffs. Take a stop off at the locals favourite beach, Bronte This beach has a lovely green area behind it where you can play ball games or enjoy a BBQ (just bring your food as the BBQ's are provided.) There are also lovely cafes offering views of the beach. For affordable brunch try the Bogey Hole or Jennies, or for something a bit more sophisticated, try Swell.

Sydney's best beaches can be found in the Northern Beaches. It means getting out of the city. You can catch a bus that will take you all the way to Palm Beach. It takes about an hour and a half though so its better to hire a car so you can stop off where you fancy. I'd try Dee Why as the beach and cafes are great. Avalon is good for browsing its boutique shops and a stop off at the Newport Arms Pub is a great way to experience a real Australian Pub, overlooking Pittwater River.

The best beaches are Whale Beach and Palm Beach. If you fancy a sumptuous meal in awesome surroundings then try Jonahs at Whale Beach. It's one for a special treat as the prices are high. Palm Beach is where they film the legendary "Home and Away" Its famed for its orange sand and Barren Joey Lighthouse. For a more affordable lunch, I'd go to Barrenjoeys Guest House. It has lovely views and a modern bright interior.

Tasmania's Bay of Fires

Tasmania is often overlooked by visitors to Australia. That's a big mistake as the scenery here is probably the most dramatic in Australia. Cradle Mountain and Wine Glass Bay are the key tourist attractions. Take a drive up the coast to the Bay of Fires and you won't be disappointed. The waters are bright blue and the sand so white, it's blinding.

There is the Bay of Fires Walk which I would highly recommend. The scenery is amazing and you get to stay in some wonderful accommodation. The Bay of Fires Lodge is well known. If you don't fancy the walk you can stay in the lodge providing its outside the main walking season. You can stay between 9th May and 15th September.

Would you like to know more hidden gems? There are more than 15 at realaustraliatravel.com

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