Thursday, July 16, 2009

The Cities Of Australia

By Jennifer Schellington

Planning a trip to Australia? Wondering what to do when you get here? Your trip should include at least one of the Australian cities. Sydney and Melbourne feature high on most visitor's lists but are they the best cities for you?

On the surface, all Australian cities have the same look and feel - some large sky scrapers and a grid road system similar to rival the that of the US. But spend a little more time in our cities and you'll soon find they really are very different.

Most tourists want to visit Sydney - and why not with that incredible harbour. It has it all - the Bridge, Opera House and the Rocks which is stooped in history. For the best view of the harbour, get on the Manly Ferry and look back. Perhaps you'd like to chill on its many beaches or shop til you drop in the boutiques of Paddington. Whatever you decide, it's hard not to fall in love with Sydney.

Whilst Melbourne doesn't have that dramatic harbour, it does have so much to offer. The vibe here is so different from Sydney. It's much more European and Bohemian with its dark and sultry bars and coffee shops. There are still some impressive views, particularly from the river and exploring the lanes that run between the big skyscrapers is fun - you never know what you will discover round the next corner. Some argue the food is better than Sydney. I'm not sure I totally agree but it certainly is cheaper.

Into wine? Then head to Adelaide where you can discover three great wine regions in under an hour from the city centre. The most well known is the Barossa Valley and it's famous for its big reds like Shiraz. If I can give you one piece of advice, it would be to stay in Glenelg which is just outside the city. It's a lovely seaside town with lots going on.

A trip to Perth in Western Australia is a must, particularly if you want to travel the road less traveled. It's much quieter this side but still has stunning scenery and vibrant cities that will delight you. Stay in Fremantle just outside the city as Perth itself can be like a ghost town once the office workers have headed home. Explore the coastline and make sure you visit Cottesloe Beach.

Fancy a bit of Aboriginal Culture? Then head north to Darwin where you will find it in abundance. Visit in the dry season, between May and October, to get the most out of this area. Outside of these months it can be way too hot and very rainy. The best places to head to are Kakadu National Park and the Tiwi Islands, both a drive from Darwin.

Thinking of doing a road trip? Why not take the coast road from Sydney up to Noosa and stop off in Brisbane. It is the gateway to the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast but the city itself has something for every traveler.

Whichever Australian City you choose, I promise, you won't be disappointed.

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