Welcome to Port Arthur, a city where history seems to seep out of the walls and rise out of the floors of the ancient buildings. Initially a penal settlement, Port Arthur was largely built by the prison labour force. The convict heritage is ever present in this city, from the beautifully preserved buildings built by the prisoners to the masses of graves of the captive men and women. It is this rich heritage together with the beauty of the region that has made Port Arthur Tasmania's premier tourist destination. A historically significant tribute to the early settlers of Australia, it will draw you in and transport you back to the early days of our nation, chilling and intriguing you along the way.

The biggest attraction here, and one that has been pulling in visitors since the early 1900's, is the Port Arthur Historic Site. The site has been preserved as a cultural relic, a vestige to our convict past that was so cruel yet so crucial to the emergence of Australia. Over thirty ruins and old buildings are set in forty hectares of rolling green gardens, around which you can take informative guided tours, or simply wander them at your own leisure. The penitentiary is the largest and most imposing ruin, but the separate prison, where prisoners were punished with solitary confinement, is easily the most chilling. You can also walk through the commandants residence, the church, the hospital and the dockyards, and visit the museum which is located in the old asylum.

When night falls there is no better way to enhance your historical convict experience than to take a historic ghost tour through the site. The buildings and surrounds take on an ominous feel in the dark, and the story telling from the guide as you wander through the jail and the church is guaranteed to chill you to the core. While you may not see any ghosts, the forbidding and gloomy air of the Historic Site at night is sure to raise a few hairs and provide you with some spooky memories! These tours are limited in size and are very popular, so be sure to book in advance. Another chilling journey to the past is a tour to the Isle of the Dead, a small island situated just off shore. Over 1100 convicts and free men were buried on this island in the mid 1800's, and a tour of the headstones is a fascinating and morbid insight into history.

It is not only the heritage of Port Arthur that makes it a great place to visit. Located on the spectacular Tasman Peninsula, it is surrounded by thick rainforest vegetation and rugged landscapes. High cliffs, beautiful ocean views and stunning geological formations contrast with the dark convict history, providing a depth to the appeal of the region that intrigues visitors. the power of the sea is evident along the battered coastline, and this makes for some breathtaking scenery. Just six kilometres from the Historic Site is the Remarkable Cave, an amazing cavity in the coastal rock into which the waves crash and echo in a mesmerising fashion. There are other examples of the sculpted coastline nearby, and there is a four or five hour walk that starts at the cave and goes to Crescent Bay along which you can see more of these features.

The alluring landscapes of the Tasman Peninsula, which is registered on the National Estate, provide a wealth of activities for visitors to choose from. There are safe swimming beaches for a relaxing day with the family, but there are also beaches with roaring surf conditions that will keep the adrenaline junkies happy. If taking to the water is really your thing then you can hire sea kayaks and explore the white beaches and the rocky inlets of the coast whilst paddling around. There are thirty five designated walks in the area that will transport you through the changing features of the region, from rolling sand dunes to steep, rocky cliffs. Some of the walks are gentle strolls, others are more gruelling and may take a day or two, so be sure to plan beforehand where you wish to walk to and how long it is going to take. Horse back rides are available and are an excellent way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace. Fishing is also a popular pastime of locals and visitors. Many people camp on the shores of Fortescue Bay, where the smooth waters are home to different varieties of fish, and where it is also safe to swim and paddle around. This is one of the most popular spots in the region, so don't expect to be alone.

Its a very inspiring holiday destination, Port Arthur. It urges you to think about history, and has the effect of reconnecting you with the traces of our past and making you more appreciative of the present. Intriguing and captivating, a holiday here will entertain and educate you and your family. A hirecar will give you the freedom you need to explore the Peninsula fully, and discover all the secrets its been storing over the generations.

By: Gavin Wyatt
Gavin Wyatt is a journalist with a passion for travel. originally from Zambia he has traveled around the world to end up on the sunny shores of Australia. For more of his articles visit Car Hire in Tasmania.

The sun shines. The surf beckons. The water entices. And you're just minutes from a world of skyscrapers and corporate suits. Where else could you be but Sydney? This dazzling cosmopolitan city has no fewer than 30 glorious beaches within 20 minutes of the bustling city centre. (Eat your heart out New York and London)

Undoubtedly one of the world's greatest cities, with an enviable outdoor lifestyle, warm climate and plenty of that easy going Aussie attitude to make you feel truly welcome. But there again, I'm a little biased with adjectives, as Sydney is my home town. If you're heading down this way for an outback adventure or vacation of a lifetime, here are some of the things you have to see and do.

Let's look back

Sydney is a young city. (Captain Cook actually sailed right past the Harbour and landed at Botany Bay.) Just a little over 200 years ago, on 26 January 1788 to be exact, Sydney was founded when ships from the first fleet arrived from England to establish the colony of New South Wales. The city was named after Thomas Townsend, the first Viscount Sydney, who was Secretary of State for the Colonies of Britain at the time of the state's foundation. Today, Sydney is a fast-paced, trend setting city with a population of over 3.5 million people and a land size more than double of New York city.

Water is everywhere

While Sydney is Australia's oldest city and considered the economic powerhouse of the nation, it's not the capital, that's Canberra. But Sydney sets the pace in many ways. Its idyllic location, on the fringes of the Pacific Ocean showcases a lifestyle that's centred around water - whether you're in it or on it. Swimming, surfing, sailing - everywhere you go there seems to be a sunny beach. A magical inlet. A quiet creek. But you can't forget the grandest water haven of them all....Sydney Harbour. One of the best ways to experience The Harbour is also the cheapest. Jump on a ferry at Circular Quay, the main ferry hub, and for a just a few dollars cruise away to your heart's content.

Where to stay in Sydney

If you're organizing accommodation, Sydney can offer you every type under the sun, from lavish 5 star names to smaller boutique hotels and motels, with plenty in the mid-price range. Check out online sites like for ideas, value and instant online booking. You'll save a lot of time. Have a look at the Sydney Hotels from Hotel.com.au as a suggested starting point.

The iconic Sydney Opera House

One postcard image conjures up Sydney more than any other. It's The Opera House. In 1957, Danish architect Jørn Utzon won a competition to design the Sydney Opera House. It was finally completed in 1973. Its curved "sail-like roof" construction is a miracle of modern engineering and recognised the world over. Each year, over 1,500 performances are staged here, so chances are you can enjoy a show or a concert during your stay.

Get on up. Climb The Harbour Bridge

In 2007, it's the 75th anniversary of the opening of The Harbour Bridge in 1932. If you'd like a breathtaking and safe way to celebrate the occasion, do The Bridge climb. You strap yourself onto a wire, walk underneath the bridge, along one of the curves to the top of the bridge, across the bridge and back down the opposite curve. From the top you experience one of greatest views in the world, especially at night, with the city lights twinkling across the horizon in a velvet sky. Simply spectacular.

Get your Rocks on

Just moments from the CBD, you'll find The Rocks, which forms part of the oldest, residential precinct of Sydney. It's a historic area with charming terrace houses, pubs and cobbled laneways. Despite inevitable changes made over the years, traces of early convict settlements can still be found, evoking memories of the past. The city's oldest building, Cadman's Cottage (circa1816), is located here, along with the Argyle Cut, excavated by convicts in the 1840s. At the weekend, there's a very popular market in The Rocks. Great for souvenir shopping, trendy sheepskin boots and Australian crafts. (Don't forget the boomerang Sam.)

Paddington Market

This market launched the careers of many an Australian fashion designer. It's really worth a trip if you enjoy seeking out fashion that's one-off, funky or stylish. There are dozens of stalls packed with everything from novel t-shirts to accessories, bags to homewares. Every Saturday from 10am-4pm at the Paddington Uniting Church in Oxford Street.

Do The Zoo

Every city has a zoo, but what makes Sydney's Taronga Zoo so stunning is the location. It's in Mosman, on elevated land along the waterfront. This is one of the most beautiful vantage points on the Harbour overlooking Sydney Cove, the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Zigzag your way along the paths and lush greenery, among the animal enclosures, as you capture panoramic, photo perfect water views. All this, just a 12 minute ferry ride from town. (Love that ferry service.)

Life's a beach. Iconic Bondi

You can't visit Sydney without a trip to Bondi. It's more than beach, with fantastic cafes, trendy restaurants and ocean-filled pools. A people-watching paradise. My tip: do the cliff walk from Bondi past Tamarama, Bronte and all the way to Coogee. The views are stunning. The path is easy to find and a pleasant way to spend an afternoon with a bit of exercise thrown in. Stop for a swim or a cool beer along the way, or bring a picnic or barbecue.

Feeling Blue?

The Blue Mountains are just an hour away by train from the city and truly a world away. Beautiful, mystical, awe-inspiring scenery. Take the popular walk from Echo Point, Katoomba (known to the aboriginals as "shiny, tumbling water") to see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Go for a ride on the famous Scenic Railway - the world's steepest incline railway, or do what I do - ride the thrilling new Skyway Cable Car.

Doyles on the Beach, Watsons Bay

On a balmy night or lazy lunchtime, there's nowhere better than a visit to Doyles, a Sydney seafood institution that first opened its doors in 1885. Situated right on the foreshore at Watsons Bay, you can sit down to a cool beer, fine wine and super-fresh seafood, served with style. Sit back and chill. This is Sydney at its best.

After reading all this, I hope the elusive travel bug will see you down here one day, or better still, some day soon.

By: Matthew Lawson
Matthew Lawson heads up Hotel.com.au and is an avid traveler. Check out the low room rates for Sydney hotels and a great range of 79,000 hotels world wide at Hotel.com.au.

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Australia, the world's largest island, has some of the best surfing beaches to be found anywhere. Here, visiting the beach is as much a social experience as an opportunity for relaxation and water sports, since the beach is integral to Australian culture. While there will always be disagreement over which of the thousands of beaches are the best, the following selection represents a variety of urban and regional surf beaches that are popular with both surfers and those looking for a fun day on the beach.

Noosa Heads, in Queensland, is one of Australia's best family beaches. Facing north, it is more like an ocean cul-de-sac, with generally gentler surf conditions than might be found on the more open beaches. Just behind the beach is the famous Hastings Street shopping strip. High fashion boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants run along its shopper-friendly pavements, shaded by lush, leafy trees.

The Gold Coast's Burleigh Heads is famous for its pine tree backdrop and great point break surf. The famous Burleigh Barrel, a power-packed tube loved by all surfers is driven by solid swells and prevailing SE winds. Burleigh's shopping precinct just off the beach is a quiet and eclectic collection of shops and cafes.

Byron Bay, in northern New South Wales, is considered Australia's alternative lifestyle capital. The trendy town centre, boasting top-quality eateries and pubs, is fronted by a superb beach. The lack of high-rise development adds to the clean, laid-back appeal of this pristine location. Close to the beach strip are subtropical rainforests and national parks that you can easily visit.

On Sydney's northern coastline, Palm Beach is noted as a residential suburb for the wealthy as much as for its surf beach. Situated on a peninsula, the beach has stunning Pacific Ocean front expanses with a variety of swells, and there are gentler waters on the west of the peninsular at Pittwater. Surrounding bushland adds to the feeling of genteel serenity.

Australia's most famous beach, Sydney's Bondi Beach, is where Australian beach culture originated. This stunning beach, bounded by rocky points at either end, abuts a vast promenade with a distinctively old world charm. Its wide stretch of sand is dominated by the grand old Bondi Pavilion, built in 1928. Campbell Parade, running parallel to the beach, is a people watcher's delight.

Two hours' drive south of Sydney is Kiama, where the beautiful Surf Beach offers a deep beachfront of pure white sand, gentle incoming waves, and an open park with cooking facilities and picnic areas. The beach is popular with families, and many visitors come to view the breath-taking Kiama Blowhole nearby.

At Portsea, in Victoria, Melbourne's wealthy come to retire for a summer respite. Set on the western-most point of the sweeping Mornington Peninsula, Portsea boasts a fascinating, rugged ocean front beach as well as a quieter bay beach nearby. Stark rock formations, shaped by the area's often savage winds, feature prominently around the beach landscapes. The tiny village has a feel of understated exclusivity.

Many would claim Bells Beach as Australia's best board surfing beach. Located 100 km south west of Melbourne along the majestic Great Ocean Road, Bells is a largely untouched ocean beach with almost never-ending swells undulating across deep blue water. The beach ends abruptly with soaring cliffs of yellow and orange clay. Designated a state reserve, its unspoiled status is assured.

Margaret River, in Australia's south west, is virtually unrivalled for the quality of its waves. The clear, open water swells and forms some of the world's best and most consistent board and body catches. Dazzling views across the mighty river and its mouth as it spills into the Indian Ocean are plentiful. Margaret River township is a mellow precinct dotted with great cafes and art galleries.

Perth's Cottesloe Beach is understandably that city's pride and joy. The now ritzy suburb, just outside Perth CBD, affords unbeatable views across the ocean to gorgeous Rottnest Island. The westerly-facing beach, part of a long strip, is a fantastic place to watch the sun set on another day. The stately old surf club and restaurant provides a regal focal point.

By: R. Ritchie
Rod Ritchie writes for many publishers including AA Publishing and Fodors. Bon Voyage Travel and Tours provide tailor made Australia holidays and tours for the individual traveler.

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Perth has something to offer every car hire holiday. If you are searching for sunshine, pristine beaches, winding rivers and rolling hills you will find it all here. Alternatively, the markets, nightlife and restaurants offer an abundance of choices for the most selective tourist. With attractions as diverse as the landscapes surrounding this pretty city, you will need to base yourself here for at least a week to take in everything there is to offer.

Western Australias capital city is widely known for its pristine beaches which stretch up and down the coast. This region is an underwater paradise, with the whale shark (the worlds largest fish) an attraction for divers, and friendly dolphins that swim to the waters edge. There is every type of landscape within driving distance. And you can return to Perth to relax and enjoy the culture of the city before you start another day trip filled with adventure.

One attraction you cant miss is the Perth Zoo, featuring over 1600 species. Located just five minutes from the city on the banks of the Swan River, you will discover interesting animals such as the Lemur, Siberian Tiger, Western Quoll and the cute Numbat. The children will love it here and it is open every day of the week.

The majestic Swan River meanders into the Swan Valley offering extensive wineries and art galleries. This is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or day trip. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a drive into the lush valley which is such a contrast from the beaches and aquatic attractions closer to the city. Spring is also a wonderful time to visit this region with the 'Spring in the Valley' festival bringing life and colour to the valley, and wildflowers literally everywhere you look.

Another great picnic idea is to head to the famous King Park, only a short walk from the city spreading over Mount Eliza, and enjoy the panoramic views of the river dotted with catamarans and yachts. Take a stroll through parklands or enjoy the magnificent botanical gardens.

Just across from Perth is Rottnest Island, which is just as popular with tourists as locals. The clear waters, fishing spots and the cute quokkas seem to own the island. The best way to see Rottnest is on push bike, which adds to the peace and tranquillity of the island. You are bound to find your own private beach with over sixty to discover, or visit the Rottnest Musuem for a walk back in time. Bring your snorkels and you will be delighted with the underwater world albeit with shipwrecks and coral reefs.

If you are staying at Rottnest overnight at one of the villas or camping sites, make sure you watch the spectacular sunset from the Quokkas Arms Pub. It truly is one of the best spots in the world to watch the sun setting over the Indian Ocean.

Less than half an hour from Perth is Fremantle, which is a port city that needs to be seen for its heritage buildings, museum and authentic shopping. The markets here are very popular with locals and tourists alike, with every type of cuisine available, and trendy cafés lining the streets.

South from Perth you will find Mandurah, known for its Ocean Marina surrounded by cafes, shops and parklands. This is a great place to enjoy a day cruise out into the ocean to watch for dolphins, pelicans and water birds. There is every type of water activity available here, and it is a fishermans delight with an abundance of marine life.

Rockingham has everything for families and water lovers, with plenty of safe beaches, and sailing, snorkelling and surfing all enjoyable past-times. Two of the favourite attractions are the dolphin viewing tours which have a platform so you can see the dolphins swimming alongside you. Also taking the ferry out to Penguin Island is a must to see the fairy penguins in their own environment. This is a wonderful city to stay for a while to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and aquatic life.

Perth is also known for its swans, and a unique place to see the white swans is in Northam, which also has the longest suspension bridge in Australia. Nestled on the Avon River further inland from the city, you can also enjoy white water rafting, canoeing and hot air ballooning in this region.

Further into the hinterland, the Avon Valley National Park is fantastic for a day trip of weekend escape. Drive inland to York, where you will find an array of museums, galleries and old buildings. There is plenty of bush camping here and friendly towns scattered throughout the valley. The drive from Beverley to York promises panoramic views over lakes and countryside.

Perth is beautiful in so many ways. The friendliness of the people, the diversity of wildlife and marine life so close together, and the loveliness of the country make this a destination that will capture your heart. Fantastic as a base to visit Western Australia more extensively, make sure you start planning a self drive itinerary here soon.

By: Jenny Brewer
Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit Car Hire Australia.

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Mornington Peninsula is a water wonderland, with its vast number of beaches, bays and harbours. If you love water sports you will be right at home here with plenty of surfing, fishing, scuba diving, boating and, of course, fishing. This has to be one of the top tourist spots in Victoria to rest and enjoy the ocean at its best, and the perfect destination for your self drive holiday.

Located just over 100 kilometres south from Melbourne, on the east side of Port Philip Bay, many travellers find a spot close to the water and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the ocean and its treasures. Mornington Peninsula National Park is like heaven on earth, with coastline and beaches that cannot be compared to many. Swimming with the bottlenose dolphins is another unforgettable experience that is common in this stretch of water.

There are a number of incredible walks which take you past amazing scenery, cliffs and lighthouses, and it doesnt matter which direction you take, there is always a majestic view of the ocean, gentle waters of the bay, or the coast hinterland. The climate is wonderful year round making this region a magnet for sun lovers around Australia.

With so many beaches to choose from you can always be guaranteed an enjoyable spot as the ocean side is a direct contrast to the still waters along Port Philip Bay. The best place to see the bay is from Arthurs Seat, which offers incredible views of the Peninsula right through to the city skyline.

Sorrento is known as one of the most popular and stylish seaside villages, and is well worth a visit. It is relaxed and beautiful, with the beach so close and always plenty of picnic spots close to town. You can enjoy sailing, boating, bushwalking, scuba diving and fishing here, and there are camping spots nearby, one of the most well known being Sorrento Village Campgrounds. One of the best attractions are the dolphin cruises, the Sorrento Museum and the coastal walks which are magical at dusk.

There are plenty of beaches in this region, one of the most popular being Frankston, which has long, sandy beaches perfect for all types of water sports. Mornington itself has safe beaches around the bay harbour with fantastic lookouts at Schnapper Point.

One of the best is located at Rye, with a long jetty, playground and walking tracks nearby. It is a tradition by many locals to set up camp on the beach in this area and take the children to the wildlife park, enjoy horse riding along the waters edge or simply relax and make the most of the glorious water views.

Flinders has superb views of Phillip Island and Seal Rocks, and is well known for its excellent fishing, Pelican Park Aquatic Centre, blow holes and incredible views of Bass Strait. Its great for a stopover or a closer look at the abundance of wildlife especially at night.

Home to the rich and famous, Portsea can be found at the top of Mornington Peninsula. It is an attractive stretch of coast with magnificent trees and coastline that is worth the visit. However, it may cost a bit more to wine and dine here.

Set in the hinterland, there are wineries, orchards and fantastic art and craft shops at Red Hill. Famous for its monthly markets, you will find many treasures here, even if it means picking strawberries at the berry farm. It will be an enriching experience to spend a few days here in the heart of this welcoming town.

Mornington Peninsula is a tourist haven, especially for those who need to get away and enjoy the natural wonder of the ocean, beaches and seaside towns. If you can escape here for a number of days or more you will return tanned, relaxed and counting down the days until you return to enjoy more hours in the Mornington sunshine.

By: Jenny Brewer
Jenny Brewer is a travel agent whose passion is writing. After spending her leisure time writing time writing childrens stories, she now enjoys writing about travel destinations. For more of her articles visit http://www.discovery-carhire.com.au.

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Australia has a well deserved reputation as one of the worlds most popular tourist destinations.

Australia has a vibrant $20 billion a year tourism industry and it shows no signs of slowing down.

The Whitsundays Islands Australia’s Best Kept Secret

Between Townsville and Mackay off the coast of Queensland and some 900km north of Brisbane Australia are a collective of continental islands of various sizes known as the Whitsunday Islands.

They have been described as the jewel in the crown of Australian tourist destinations.

The Whitsundays are certainly one of the most popular places in Australia for tourists to visit.

There Are 29 Island Groups in the Whitsundays With 74 Islands in Total:

1. Bird Island
2. Black Island
3. Border Island
4. Cid Island
5. Cowrie Island
6. Deloraine Island
7. Dent Island
8. Dumbell Island
9. Dungarra Island
10. Esk Island
11. Fitzalan Island
12. Hamilton Island
13. Harold Island
14. Haslewood Island
15. Hayman Island
16. Henning Island
17. Hook Island
18. Ireby Island
19. Langford Island
20. Long Island
21. Lupton Island
22. Nicolson Island
23. Perseverance Island
24. Plum Pudding Island
25. Teague Island
26. Titan Island
27. Whitsunday Island
28. Wirrainbela Island
29. Workington Island



The Whitsundays is the perfect choice for your next Australian vacation. In fact, if you are considering a Whitsundays holiday, rest assured you will have the time of your life.

The Whitsundays Have So Much to Offer People Say They Are: Beautiful One Day, Perfect the Next.

Whether it is diving, fishing, boating, surfing, parachuting, snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach taking in the views, the Whitsundays has it all.

There are miles of beautiful tropical beaches, pristine, clear blue, ocean playgrounds and some of the most breathtaking sunsets you are ever likely to see in a lifetime.

If you are reading these words and still have not made up your mind – I strongly encourage you to seriously consider the Whitsundays Islands for your next vacation.

You find great resorts, affordable hotels; you could very well create happy memories that will last a lifetime.

By: Chris A Bloor
Chris Bloor helps people with Whitsundays Tourism on his popular Whitsundays Business Directory http://WhitsundaysPortal.com.

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