So, you've decided to come to Australia and want to visit at least one Australian City. Of course you could go with Sydney or Melbourne. But will they be the best ones for you?
Scratch a little under the surface of our cities and you will find that they are in fact very different. Yes, they may have the same looking sky scrapers and US grid system, but really they are as different as chalk and cheese.
First stop has to be Sydney. It's iconic harbour with the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Rocks is certainly not to be missed. Seeing the area from a boat is THE best way to see it. Take the Ferry to Manly and enjoy the view. There's more to Sydney than just great views though. From boutique shopping in Paddington, to exploring its querky suburbs and of course its beaches, Sydney is a firm favourite for best Australian city.
Melbourne might not be as showy or picturesque as Sydney but it still has the lot. It has a much more Bohemian and European feel to it than Sydney, with its dark and seductive coffee shops and bars. The views from the river are spectacular and exploring its famous lanes are very memorable. Some argue that the food is better than Sydney. It's debatable but it's certainly cheaper.
Adelaide should probably be next on your list, although it should be top of your Australian Cities list if you are into your wine. From here you can easily explore 3 great wine regions all within an hour or so from the city. The most famous is probably the Barossa - perfect if you are into the big Reds like Shiraz. My tip here is not to stay in Adelaide itself but head to Glenelg which is just outside the city and right on the beach.
The Western Coast of Australia is less visited than the East. I think it's the extra flying time that puts people off. If you want stunning scenery away from the tourists than head west to Perth. It is much quieter than the other Australian Cities but has lots to offer. Once the office workers go home, the centre can get very quiet so stay in Fremantle for more vibrancy. There's also some spectacular beaches to explore, my favourite being Cottesloe.
If Aboriginal culture is more your thing then head north to Darwin. It can get very wet and humid up here so come between May and October when the weather is dry and less hot. Explore Kakadu National Park and the Tiwi Islands to see Aboriginal art and history at its best.
If a road trip is what you are after than take the trip from Sydney up to Noosa on the East Coast Road via Brisbane. The gateway to some spectacular places such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, Brisbane itself offers every traveler something special.
Whichever of the Australian Cities you choose, you won't be disappointed.
Scratch a little under the surface of our cities and you will find that they are in fact very different. Yes, they may have the same looking sky scrapers and US grid system, but really they are as different as chalk and cheese.
First stop has to be Sydney. It's iconic harbour with the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Rocks is certainly not to be missed. Seeing the area from a boat is THE best way to see it. Take the Ferry to Manly and enjoy the view. There's more to Sydney than just great views though. From boutique shopping in Paddington, to exploring its querky suburbs and of course its beaches, Sydney is a firm favourite for best Australian city.
Melbourne might not be as showy or picturesque as Sydney but it still has the lot. It has a much more Bohemian and European feel to it than Sydney, with its dark and seductive coffee shops and bars. The views from the river are spectacular and exploring its famous lanes are very memorable. Some argue that the food is better than Sydney. It's debatable but it's certainly cheaper.
Adelaide should probably be next on your list, although it should be top of your Australian Cities list if you are into your wine. From here you can easily explore 3 great wine regions all within an hour or so from the city. The most famous is probably the Barossa - perfect if you are into the big Reds like Shiraz. My tip here is not to stay in Adelaide itself but head to Glenelg which is just outside the city and right on the beach.
The Western Coast of Australia is less visited than the East. I think it's the extra flying time that puts people off. If you want stunning scenery away from the tourists than head west to Perth. It is much quieter than the other Australian Cities but has lots to offer. Once the office workers go home, the centre can get very quiet so stay in Fremantle for more vibrancy. There's also some spectacular beaches to explore, my favourite being Cottesloe.
If Aboriginal culture is more your thing then head north to Darwin. It can get very wet and humid up here so come between May and October when the weather is dry and less hot. Explore Kakadu National Park and the Tiwi Islands to see Aboriginal art and history at its best.
If a road trip is what you are after than take the trip from Sydney up to Noosa on the East Coast Road via Brisbane. The gateway to some spectacular places such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, Brisbane itself offers every traveler something special.
Whichever of the Australian Cities you choose, you won't be disappointed.
About the Author:
Jennifer Schellington has nearly half a decade experience in traveling Australia and has recently become a Mum. Her website, www.realaustraliatravel.comgives practical information for planning your trip to Australia as well as what to do and where to go. Click here for more information on exploring Australian Cities
0 comments:
Post a Comment