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A Taste of the Hunter Valley Australia

The Hunter Valley needs no introduction to wine lovers. Along with South Australia’s Barossa Valley, it has put Australian wines at the top of the world’s list of great wine growing regions. This didn’t happen overnight, though and the history of viticulture in the Hunter Valley is a fascinating one.

Hunter Valley

Lieutenant John Shortland stumbled across the Hunter River in 1797 while looking for escaped convicts. While he did not find the convicts he was looking for, he did find a verdant valley rich in natural resources. Shortland spread the word about the Hunter Valley and as soon as land access to the region was established, settlers started planting vines: by 1823, over twenty acres were already planted.

George Wyndham, William Kelman and James King were a few of the early Hunter Valley wine producers, but an amateur viticulturist, James Busby, is credited with having a big influence on the Hunter Valley’s future. After two study tours in Europe, Busby returned with over 500 vine cuttings. Many experts credit Busby as the man most responsible for turning the Hunter Valley into a major wine growing region.

James Busby had a sister named Catherine. She fell in love with and married William Kelman. Many of Kelman’s first vines were some of those brought over by Busby. Others followed suit and by 1840, there were over 500 acres of vines in the Hunter Valley. Before the turn of the century, many of the most famous names in Hunter Valley wines were already established, including Dr. Henry Lindeman and the Tyrell, Wilkenson and Drayton families.

Hunter Valley - The early days

The first half of the 20th century, plagued by wars and depression, saw no further growth in the Hunter Valley, but in the prosperous 1960s, the region began another growth spurt. In that era of increased prosperity, the dry table wines that the Hunter Valley produced became popular. The sixties were also a period of expansion in the Hunter. After over a century of domination by a handful of growers, Dr. Max Lake set the stage for the future when he started Lake’s Folly in 1963. His success led to the establishment of dozens of other boutique wineries. Today, there are over 120 wine producers in the Hunter Valley.

Before the 1960s, wine was shipped out of the Hunter Valley, but very few consumers travelled to the Hunter Valley. That changed with the road improvements between Sydney and the Hunter Valley. After it became so quick and easy to get to the Hunter Valley from Sydney, the area became a popular weekend destination for Sydneysiders. In an effort to compete for tourist dollars and attract more visitors, the wineries began offering entertainment, food and wine festivals and family attractions.

It goes without saying that there are now plenty of Hunter Valley accommodation options to choose from. From basic family campgrounds to luxurious spa resorts, the Hunter Valley has everything for every budget and lifestyle. The Hunter Valley is easily reached by car, coach or air, so there is nothing stopping you from visiting this world-class wine growing region.

Why would you want to visit Hobart, Tasmania?

Why would you want to visit Hobart, Tasmania? A better question would be, "Why wouldn’t you?" After Sydney Hobart is the oldest city in Australia with much of its history going back as early as 1803. It is the capital city of Tasmania and major transportation link to the mainland, so combines its old world charm with modern amenities. You can stay in a Hobart accommodation that dates back to the 19th century, but is luxuriously appointed, giving you a feeling of living in two eras at once. These are just a few of the reasons why you don’t want to miss Hobart.

Back in 1804, when Lieutenant Governor Collins started the first settlement in what is now Hobart, his vision for the island was not a glorious one. Britain and Ireland saw the island as a perfect place to house their criminal populations and the bulk of the first settlers arrived in Hobart in chains. But many of these were what we would call political prisoners today. They were idealistic young Irishmen who were stirring up trouble calling for an independent Ireland. It wasn’t long, though, before the island’s natural resources and the city’s deep water harbor were discovered and exploited by the free settlers who followed the convicts, looking for a new life. These free settlers began the first export trade on the island, with wool and timber being two of the main exports.

Originally called Van Diemen’s Land but was then changed to Tasmania in 1856. The name change was largely an attempt to put its penal colony past behind it. By then, the major construction in Hobart centered around the wharf and the Derwent River and many of the original buildings around the Wharf Docks remain standing. Although Sydney is older than Hobart, the Wharf Docks retain their old world atmosphere more than their Sydney equivalent. While there are plenty of wonderful "gentrified" restaurants and cafes to relax in, it is still a busy wharf, with fishing boats entering and leaving the wharf throughout the week.

Near the Wharf Docks, you’ll find Salamander Place. Here the warehouses and other buildings have been converted into souvenir shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafes.

Tasmania’s convict history remains evident everywhere both in and around Hobart and in fact has become one of Hobart’s tourist attractions. Regular tours of infamous prisons such as the Port Arthur Historic Site can be found within a short drive or bus tour from the center of the city. Others, like the chilling Female Factory, where hundreds of women and children endured almost unimaginable hardship from 1828 to 1877, are within the city limits themselves.

Port Arthur Historic Site

The penal colony era, though, is in Tasmania’s past. Nowadays, people come to Hobart from all around the world voluntarily to enjoy its unspoiled natural beauty. From here, it takes no time at all to be surrounded by nature at its finest. The best time of the year to visit is during the warmest summer months of December and January. This is the time of year when the world famous Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is held, so make your Hobart accommodation bookings early. The city is alive with excitement during this time of year.

Darling Harbour one of Sydney’s Best Attractions

Darling Harbour is one of Sydney’s major attractions for tourists and locals alike. With its beautiful harbourside setting, dozens of gift shops and boutiques, restaurants and excellent conference and exhibition facilities, it’s no wonder that almost everyone who visits or lives in Sydney visits Darling Harbour.

Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour didn’t always have so much to boast about. Over the 19th century and much of the 20th century, the Pyrmont-Darling Harbour area was a huge manufacturing center. Slowly, though, the area lost its attraction to manufacturers and they moved elsewhere, leaving neglected warehouses and factories behind. By the 1970s, Darling Harbour was a virtual ghost town.

Australia celebrated its Bicentennial in 1988, but planning for the big event began many years before. As part of the Bicentennial preparations, then Premier of NSW Neville Wran initiated an ambitious Darling Harbour development plan. The project was finished on time and Darling Harbour was back on the map. It got another, even bigger boost in development when private and public funding spent another one and a half billion dollars on it in preparation for the 2000 Olympics.

You don’t need a reason to enjoy Darling Harbour. On a warm spring day, there’s nothing more enjoyable than taking a stroll over Pyrmont Bridge and then across the long promenade that stretches along the waterside in front of the development. If you’re feeling hungry, you will find dozens of cafes, restaurants and take-out stalls to select from. It’s a great place to bring the entire family. The kids love to take the small train tour and, for a big outing, there’s the Sydney Aquarium, one of the world’s biggest, the IMAX theatre and the fascinating National Maritime and Powerhouse Museums.

Captain Cook Endeavour

These are only a few of the things you are able to do in Darling Harbour and even these cannot be done in just one day. Just when you think you’ve seen everything, you hear about Sydney Wildlife World’s six thousand examples of Australian animals. Then you can get a babysitter for the kids and enjoy an evening of entertainment at Star Theatre or the Lyric Theatre at Star City Casino.

If you do not feel like walking, why not get to Darling Harbour via the Sydney Monorail and see the city from a whole new point of view? If you are looking to explore the city by water, it is possible to catch a Sydney Harbour cruise from Darling Harbour. If you would like nothing more than a quiet afternoon in a lovely setting, a stroll through the immaculate gardens of the Chinese Garden of Friendship will be sure to restore your spirits.

Chinese Garden of Friendship

Now can you see why Sydneysiders call Darling Harbour their best Sydney attraction? An excellent way to spend your vacation in Sydney is to make a Darling Harbour accommodation your base. Just try and find at least a bit of time to tear yourself away from Darling Harbour and explore the rest of the city!

Melbourne: The Cultural Capital of Australia

Sydney and Melbourne, Australia’s two most populous cities, have always indulged in a friendly rivalry. Sydney takes first place as Australia’s oldest and largest city and likes to call Melbourne Australia’s "2nd City." Melbourne comes back with the retort that while there are more people in Sydney, Melbourne takes the prize as Australia’s "cultural capital." When you look into it, there is a lot to be said for that claim.

Sydney and Van Diemen’s Land (Tasmania) both were established before Melbourne was. In fact, Melbourne’s first settlers came via Van Diemen’s Land in 1837. That was almost half a century after Australia’s first settlers landed. There wasn’t much going on in Victoria at all then, so Melbourne quickly became the new state’s largest and most important city and was made the capital of Victoria in 1851.

Things really took off in Melbourne and Victoria in the late 1850s when gold was discovered. Melbourne blossomed then and rapidly developed into one of the richest cities in the world. Melbourne’s historical architecture reflects this era of extreme prosperity and some of its heritage buildings are among the most stunning examples of Victorian architecture in Australia.

Melbourne’s claim to being Australia’s cultural capital began in the late 19th century. It is not just an empty boast, either. For example, the world’s first full length feature movie, the 70 minute long Story of the Kelly Gang was made in 1906 in Melbourne, long before Hollywood began making movies. Later, Melbourne became known throughout the art world as the home of the Australian impressionist movement. It is the home of more than one world renowned dance styles, including the Melbourne shuffle. Today, many of Australia’s top musicians, writers, actors and other performers either come from Melbourne or call Melbourne home.

Melbourne has many other claims to fame, as well. It has been selected as one of the top 3 most livable cities in the world, one of the top 10 University cities in the world and in 2006, was dubbed a world "City of Literature" by UNESCO. No wonder Melburnians brag that they live in the Cultural Capital of Australia!

For all of the praise Melbourne receives, it remains a quintessential Australian town. There is little or no distinction between "high culture" and "popular culture" in Melbourne. For instance, the St. Kilda district, once the wealthiest suburb in Melbourne, is now a Bohemian district and one of the most popular backpacker destinations in Australia. You can go to the Palais Theatre in St Kilda and see some of the world’s greatest international stars or you can go down the street to a pub and see a local band play.

St. Kilda beach

Sydney remains Australia’s largest city and the one where the majority of overseas visitors usually land upon arrival. To get the most out of your holiday in Australia, don’t miss out on Melbourne. The Sydney locals might jokingly tell you how much better their city is, but the fact is, all Australians love Melbourne as much as they love the rest of their country. Put some time aside to stay in a Melbourne accommodation and see for yourself why Melbourne is the Cultural Capital of the Land Down Under.

The laid-back village of Lennox Head

Lennox Head may not be the biggest name on the NSW North Coast, but it is arguably the best name. Lennox has everything to offer that its neighbours have, but has it at a more laid-back pace.

Situated just across a quiet street from a beautiful sandy beach, the village of Lennox Head couldn’t be in a better location. Right across the street from all the great shops and cafes is the Lennox Head Surf Lifesaving Club, so you can take the kids to the beach and know that they are under the watchful eye of trained lifesavers.

Lennox Head

Lennox Head can better be described as a village than a town. Its compact size means than everything is easily within your reach. Granted, Lennox Head is not renowned for its nightlife, but it is so close to Byron Bay, nothing stops you from taking a short drive up the coast for a night out in the entertainment capital of the North Coast. If you need to stock up on supplies, the big shopping centres of Ballina are equally easy to get to.

If you’re a surfer, you’ll love Lennox Head. The break just outside of town at the headland from which Lennox gets its name is a classic spot. The rounded stones on the "beach" out at the headland make access to the water more difficult than out at Byron’s Pass. That’s a good thing, because it keeps the crowds at a minimum. The waves out there are more challenging, too. This is something experienced surfers appreciate.

Surfing Lennox Head

Everyone still loves Byron Bay, but it has because so famous, it can sometimes become over-crowded. Byron is an exciting place to visit, but not always the best place to stay. Lennox is a laid-back version of Byron, much like Byron Bay was 40 years ago. It has all the amenities you could want, great beaches and beautiful surroundings. The only difference is that you don’t have to drive around all day looking for a place to park or take your life into your hands when you cross the street.

Lennox Head’s central North Coast location makes it an ideal place to start your exploration of the rest of the region. You can take a fairly direct route to the wonderful village of Bangalow. From there, you can go on to Lismore and all the great National Parks and other inland attractions of the north coast you might otherwise miss. Make Sunday your excuse to go exploring the region. Check out the schedules of the north coast markets and head for Bangalow, Byron Bay, the Channon or Mullumbimby. Each has a market day on a different Sunday of the month.

Lennox Head may be small, but it is not short on Lennox Head accommodation options. You can find all the same great accommodations you can find elsewhere on the north coast, including camping grounds, backpackers lodges, family accommodations and resorts. The only difference is that they tend to be less expensive than they are in Byron Bay. Discover Lennox Head and you will enjoy your North Coast NSW holiday even more than if you stay elsewhere.

South West Rocks isn’t a rock pile

South West Rocks must be one of the most misleading place names in Australia. If you’ve never been there or been told about it, you wouldn’t be likely to want to visit this lovely town about 50 miles or 80 kilometres north of Port Macquarie. Ask those who have discovered South West Rocks, though, and they’ll tell you it’s one of the best places to go for a thoroughly relaxing holiday.

South West Rocks Beach

Just in case you’re still wondering: South West Rocks isn’t a rock pile southwest of some large tourist destination. It’s the name of a beautiful coastal town with a population of about four thousand. The town was first settled as a place to house low-security prisoners in the late 1800s. Their first job was to build a breakwater around the bay beneath the rocky cliffs on the southern end of the settlement. That may be how the town got its name.

At any rate, the breakwater was never completed. The prison was closed in 1903 and wasn’t reopened until WWI, when German and Austrian immigrants were detained there. These detainees, many of whom had lived in Australia their entire lives, were not really considered a threat, so enjoyed some privileges the earlier inmates did not. They were probably the first settlers in South West Rocks who got to enjoy the beach life, since that was where they spent much of their free time before being locked up again at night.

The early convicts and the WWI detainees were housed in Trial Bay Gaol. If it weren’t for its high walls, this well-constructed granite building could be mistaken for a 19th century mansion or resort. It stands proudly above a sheer cliff and commands a million dollar view of the ocean and the surrounding countryside.

South west Rocks Gaol

While the gaol is one of South West Rock’s biggest onshore attractions, the town’s biggest global attraction lies beneath the surface of an island about a mile off its shores. Fish Rock Cave runs for over 100 yards (125 metres) beneath the surface of Green Island. It is known for its abundance of sea life, including the grey nurse sharks that live and breed in the waters around the island and has been rated as one of Australia’s Top Ten diving spots.

If you’re looking for a great place to just sit back and relax, then you’ll love the village atmosphere of South West Rocks. As soon as you arrive in town, you begin to relax and unwind as you drive down its wide, tree-lined streets. No doubt, the first thing you will do is stop in for an alfresco lunch and cappuccino in one of the many cafes that line the main road.

You may go to South West Rocks thinking you’ll just spend a few hours relaxing there, but you’ll wind up wanting to spend a few days there. The Tourist Park is one of the more popular South West Rocks accommodation options, but if you want something more private or luxurious, there are many great places you can stay. If you’re traveling during the height of the tourist season, be sure and book ahead, because South West Rocks is an increasingly popular holiday destination.

Getaway to Swansea in Tasmania

Where are you going on your next vacation? Will it be the same old thing? How about a beautiful white beach on the Coral Sea? Travel to the eastern coast of Tasmania, Australia. There will a great deal of things do see and experience. Does this sound like a relaxing vacation? Here are just a few reasons to look into a Swansea Tas accommodation.

Fantastic fishing
What type of fishing do you enjoy? You will have all kinds to choose from. Flathead fishing is very popular here. The Swan River features excellent angling opportunities. Catches of one to two kilograms are not uncommon. Other favorites here include crabs and rock lobsters. Perhaps you need some good bait. Go to the Dolphin Sands Road. You may be able to find nippers, crabs, and pawns there. They will make excellent bait. The Swan River offers good chances to catch gar or leatherjacket.

You may wish to take a boat out onto the river. It is perfectly fine to stay right on the banks. Either way will provide a great opportunity. Are you looking for squid? The main pier at Coles Bay is the best place, in the evening. Jigs work very well there. You may also find mackerel and long pike.

Down a ways from Great Oyster Bay is Schouten Passage. You will find deep waters and strong currents in this channel. You will also find very good fishing here. Flathead and Trumpeter are just a few of the one that you will encounter. There will be tuna closer to the shore. You may also have the chance to get a blue shark. All across this area you will find amazing fishing. You will see a large variety of opportunities. You may also take a charter fishing trip from Coles Bay.

Surfing opportunities
How do you feel about surfing? You can find a very good right hand point break at Kularoo. The entire coastline of eastern Tasmania, features some of the best surfing in the world.

Scenery
There is amazing scenery at Freycinet National Park. Travel to the wetlands or take in the granite peaks. There is a lovely eucalyptus forest as well as enchanting white beaches. Wineglass Bay beach is world famous. You might wish to go bird watching or hiking. There is a lot of local wildlife and sights to see.

You may want to stop at Cape Tourville Lighthouse. The view from there is unforgettable. Take in the lovely coastline. You could encounter several areas to walk or hike to. There is an enormous variety of wildlife to appreciate.

Stay at any of the many fine hotels. Visit the local restaurants and many cafes. Do you like seafood? It is fresh here, each day.

Summary
Eastern Tasmania, Australia, offers an enormous amount of things to do and see. The fishing is exceptional. Whether on shore or in a boat, you can catch a great variety of fish. It features some of the best surfing and diving areas in the world. Hike or walk, as you take in the many natural wonders. You can find very good Swansea accommodation. You will have a most relaxing and invigorating time, while you are here. Visit out website for Swansea attractions.

Magnetic Island is a good location when staying on the Great Barrier Reef

When Captain Cook sailed past Magnetic Island in 1770, he noted that his compass seemed to malfunction and attributed it to the unnamed island, believing it to contain a mysterious magnetic force. Although his theory has since been proved wrong, the name "Magnetic Island" has stuck ever since.

Maybe a better name for Magnetic Island would be Magic Island. Neither a compass nor any other instrument can measure the "force" of this magic, but you definitely feel it when you’re in the vicinity of the island. What is the magic?

Yes, the fact that Magnetic Island is on the Great Barrier Reef is part of its attraction, but that’s not the whole story. When you see its verdant, hilly slopes just off the shores of Townsville, it looks like you could almost walk or easily swim to it, it is so close. Those with adventurous spirits look at its verdant hills and hidden coves and want to discover them for themselves. Since half of the island is a National Park, the potential for exploration is enormous.

If you like roughing it, you can explore much of the island on foot, on a mountain bike or even in a sea kayak. If motorized transportation is more to your liking, then rent a dirt bike, a 4WD vehicle or even a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. On the water, you have your choice between exploring beneath the surface with snorkel or scuba gear or enjoying the water by sea kayak, jet ski or even aboard a luxury yacht.

Many people get the mistaken impression that Magnetic Island is one of those Great Barrier Reef islands that only millionaires can afford to visit. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, one of the attractions of the island is the numerous budget accommodations and backpackers lodges that are available. As for dining, you can find whatever you want, no matter what your budget is, in any of the island’s four main residential districts.

If it’s luxury you’re after, you can find that, too, on Magnetic Island. In fact, recent years have seen an upsurge in more luxurious accommodations and amenities on the island. You can treat yourself to a massage at a day spa, wine and dine at a fine restaurant or sip champagne on the seashore as the sun sets.

Magnetic Island’s major attraction may be its authentic village atmosphere. When you visit this island, you don’t feel like you are visiting a Great Barrier Reef island that has been developed solely for tourists. The locals are a special breed. While they love to share their island, they are down-to-earth Australians you can sit down and "have a yarn" with.

Don’t worry about what time of year it is when you visit Magnetic Island. It is warm and sunny throughout the year. A word of caution, though: because Magnetic Island is so popular, you should probably book your Magnetic Island accommodation in advance of your visit. Once you’ve set foot on its shores, you’ll discover for yourself the real reason they call it "Magnetic Island."

Visit our Go Travel Blog to find other travel tips and vaction destinations around the world.

Gay Adventure To Sydney Australia – Fun For All

Sydney is one of the world’s favorite cities. Set on a stunning harbor the shopping and dining variety are superb and you are within easy access of the great outdoors. Sydney was voted by the readers of Conde Naste in 2008. Sydney is a gay friendly city and its wide range of attractions encourages gay travel to this part of Australia.

The Gay and Lesbian community is very active in the city. But the most famous event is the annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. This is party central and the event has general popular appeal. Many non homosexual Sydneysiders stand along the parade route to enjoy the fun atmosphere.

Beaches are everywhere around Sydney. A short ride across the harbor is the Manly area with it’s surf beach and laid back way of Life. There are a wide choice of beaches that are good for swimming and surfing or just lying back and improving your tan. If you want to find naturalist beaches there are four in the area just to the North of Sydney.

Food and cafes are a way of life here. The range of cuisine is immense and you will be able to find an option that suits your budget. One of the highlights of Sydney must be sitting in the sun at a cafe on the harbor and watching the people and boats go by.

The area around Oxford street is known as the Pink Strip. Here is a concentration of Gay friendly shop, bars and clubs. The shopping is diverse as are the clubs – so there should be something for everyone.

If you are in need of some relaxation and sun don’t forget Sydney is southern hemisphere and the seasons are the flip of what they are in the Northern hemisphere – February is still summer. Gay travel to Sydney Australia is great and the city is definitely gay friendly.

While you are in Australia, nose around some of the other spots. You will find Queensland to be gay friendly, as well as a delightful, alternative getaway. Plus, you’ll find gay resorts in Queensland as well.

Noosa, Sunshine Coast has it all

If the Sunshine Coast is one of Queensland’s coastal treasure troves, then Noosa, on the northern end of the Sunshine Coast is where you will strike it rich. Noosa has it all. Luxury and sophistication combine with a laid back beach lifestyle in a natural setting that leaves nothing to be desired.

Noosa Beach

Queensland’s Gold Coast has its attractions. There’s no denying that. However, the highrises, traffic and urban atmosphere of the Gold Coast aren’t to everybody’s liking. When they hear that just a couple of hours up the road is a quieter resort town that still has everything you could possibly want, they take their first trip to Noosa. Sometimes, they think they will just spend a couple of days there, but usually they’re wrong. Once you arrive in Noosa, you relax. Leaving is not an option because it is just too beautiful.

Your first day in Noosa might be spent on Hastings Street in Noosa Heads. This short road runs parallel to Noosa Beach and it’s not hard to find a wonderful spot to dine alfresco at a wonderful café on the beach side of the road. After a refreshing meal, you will be ready to do some serious shopping in the upscale Hastings Street boutiques, galleries and gift shops.

The following day is a good day to get outside and get some exercise. This is easily done in Noosa. Noosa and Noosa Heads are divided by the beautiful Noosa National Park. The main walking trail in the park is suitable for all levels of fitness and the overhanging branches of the trees means that you will be enjoying your walk in the cool of the shade. If you want to, though, you can take a detour and bask in the sun and take a dip in the azure waters in one of the sheltered coves along the way.

You will still have all afternoon to continue to get to know Noosa and environs. Nearby Noosaville is nestled next to the Noosa River and is a great place to explore. Relax and enjoy the scenery as you take a river tour aboard a river boat or houseboat and spend some time at beautiful Pelican Beach.

Noosaville

If all of this sounds too sedate for your adventurous spirit, then there are plenty of adventures awaiting you in Noosa – on land or at sea. How does a camelback safari sound to you? If you’re a keen surfer, you shouldn’t have to be told about the legendary waves in and around Noosa. Right out in front of the National Park parking area is one of the best point breaks in the world. Further afield, towards Cooloola National Park, are some secret spots that on their day rank with some of the world’s best.

If you’re looking for highrises and mega-developments, then Noosa may disappoint you. If you’re looking for luxurious boutique hotels, resorts and spas, though, then you will absolutely love it. Even the inexpensive backpackers lodges in Noosa are a cut above the rest. When you stay in Noosa, your Noosa accommodation will be something special, no matter what your budget is or preferences are. Next time you’re in Queensland, step away from the pack and get to know Noosa. You’ll love it.