Australia and New Zealand
Sun-baked horizons and pastoral landscapes beckon travelers
Australia
Australia's biggest lure is its naturally beautiful landscape. From the chilly southern beaches to tropical rainforests, there's nothing ordinary about a trip here. We love the rich diversity for urban and jungle trekkers alike - you can visit the opera in Sydney one day and the crocodiles the next. This is one country and continent that offers it all.
Australia is a land originally settled by convicts. While you won't find any chain gangs, you may hear English, Italian, Greek, Lebanese, Arabic and Vietnamese all in one place. Since native Australians have an odd penchant for abbreviations, much of the lingo is a mixture of several languages. Be prepared to spend much of your conversations untangling yourself from misunderstandings.
Remember that the seasons are opposite in the 'Land Down Under.' From December to March is sunny, beach season in the south, but it's rainy season to the north - and the beaches are teaming with jellyfish. If you're a skier, visit from Tasmania, Victoria and New South Wales from June to August.
- Across a Continent in Style - Australia by Rail
- Asleep on Rottnest
- Australia's Abode of Misery
- Bushland Bliss in Australia
- Didgeridoo and the Dreamtime Traditions of the Aborigine
- Get Gritty in Australia's Outback
- Northern Queensland Adventure
- Penguins on Parade
- Scoundrels and Scallywags at Sydney's Justice and Police Museum
- Suspending Disbelief
- Sydney, Doorway to Australia
- The Magic of Monkey Mia
- The Riches of Sovereign Hill
- Visiting Australia's Melbourne Zoo
- Worldwide Homestay
New Zealand
The drawback to visiting New Zealand is not wanting to leave afterwards. Immense glacial-topped mountains towering over rapid rivers and lush native forests punctuate the stunning parade of extended beaches. With a variety of unique flora and fauna, such as the kiwi, distracting you, you may forget to investigate the country's world-class gardens, art galleries, restaurants and museums.
