Two Days in Australia Cities and Two Hours Beyond

Two Days in Australia’s Cities and Two Hours Beyond
-Part One-

Fishing for Barramundi, wild flower festivals and cycling tours are just some of the things waiting for more than 136,500 Kiwis who visit Australia in spring.

According to Tourism Australia’s Regional Manager for New Zealand, Vito Anzelmi, spring is the perfect time to head across the Tasman and explore the heart, and surrounding areas, of Australia’s main cities.

“In less than two hours by car, plane or boat, from the main cities, you are in a completely different part of the region and that makes Australia a great holiday destination. Getting out of the main centres will truly deepen your Australian experience.

“There are many authentic activities that people can do when stopping over in Australia’s main cities on the way to the Outback, when on a short break, or before heading off on a longer trip through the country.”

“We know Australia’s cities are famous for shopping, dining out and night life. But it’s also easy to add whale-watching, caving and unique local experiences into holiday plans,” he says.

Below is part one, of a two part series, on Tourism Australia’s suggestions for great things do in two days in the city, and two hours beyond the cities of Brisbane, Darwin, Canberra, Hobart and Sydney.

Two Days in Brisbane and Two Hours Beyond
For a different city experience, view Brisbane from above on a scenic champagne breakfast hot-air ballooning tour over the city. Or choose another type of adventure, with a wildlife cruise down the Brisbane River or tackle the Story Bridge Adventure Climb.

If you have more time, one hours drive from Brisbane is North Stradbroke Island, one of the largest sand islands in the world. Go camping, or stay at one of the local resorts and spend a week on the white sandy beaches, swimming in one of the many waterholes and lakes or diving in the turtle caves.

Two Days in Darwin and Two Hours Beyond
Head to Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, listen to music, watch street performers and browse through over 200 vibrant stalls as the sun sets in the Timor sea. Join a Fishing tour and try your luck at catching a Barramundi or two, deemed to be one of the most delicious and elusive fish, on a boat charter off the coast of Darwin.

While in the north, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the art and culture of the Tiwi Islands. Located 80km north of Darwin the indigenous Tiwi people offer an insight into Aboriginal life, arts and crafts. In 20 minutes by plane, or two hours by ferry from Darwin, you can explore the dense bushland and pristine beaches of the northern islands.

Two Days in Canberra and Two Hours Beyond
In Canberra city visit the famous Floriade Carnivale, in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park and see spring flowers from all over the world on display, on now through to 15 October. Or, take in one of the exhibitions at Canberra’s National Gallery of Australia and discover the country’s history.

Venture out of the city on a walking track through Black Mountain bushland, a haven to native wildlife. Take a self-drive journey and explore Canberra and its surrounds. Stop off at a bed and breakfast in the countryside and experience the fresh outdoor living, or explore small towns steeped in history, such as Wagga Wagga, Tumbarumba, or Tumut shire, which is surrounded by the peaks of the Snowy Mountains.

Two Days in Hobart and Two Hours Beyond
A great way to immerse yourself in the local culture is to visit the Salamanca Market, held every Saturday morning in Hobart. Spend an afternoon on a Hobart harbour cruise and then indulge in a weekend at the Henry Jones Art Hotel. Located on Hobart’s waterfront, this five-star hotel, which began as a jam factory in the 1820s, is dedicated to showcasing the work of Tasmania’s finest visual and performing artists.

For a Tasmanian food and wine experience, self-drive the Huon Trail, which starts only 30 minutes from Hobart in Huonville. The touring journey has 24 roadside locations where you can stop and read about local wildlife, folklore, legend, flora and fauna. The trail also links up to many alternative activities such as jet boating, alpine walks and markets.

Two Days in Sydney and Two Hours Beyond
In spring Sydney’s streets come alive with various festivals including the Art and About Festival which features art installations in the streets and parks of Sydney, October 3-22, or head to the famous Paddington Markets, every Saturday 10am – 4pm. A great way to take in the sights of Sydney is on a Bonza Bikes Tour. The tour, which is led by local guides, takes you through Sydney’s city, neighbourhoods and history.

Once the bright lights of the city have sunk in, and if you’re not quite ready to end your holiday, head for the magnificent Blue Mountains, under two hours drive from Sydney. Once there you can wander through the mountains or take in a tour and learn about the Aboriginal culture of Australia. Or, spend a few days indulging at one of the many luxury health spas.

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This is the first, in a two part series, on Tourism Australia’s suggested activity with two days in Australia’s cities or in two hours beyond.

ENDS

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