For over 40,000 years, people have been arriving awestruck on this far-flung island at the edge of the earth. Australia's diverse population testifies to the fact that, time after time, the strange and fantastic land made the long journey there worthwhile. Even for today's visitors, the continent retains a magical, dream-like quality unlike anywhere else.
Where else can you enjoy world-class wine tasting, get dangerously close to a saltwater croc, learn to play the didgeridoo, snorkel in expanses of ancient coral reef, and walk through one of the oldest rainforests in the world.
For visitors, deciding where to go can mean juggling with distance and time. Australia is massive, in size it rivals the USA, yet it's population is just 20 million. Made up of 6 states and 2 territories, you could spend months driving around the Outback, exploring the national parks, or hanging out at beaches near the cosmopolitan cities on the east coast.
Aussie Facts
Human Population: 21 million
West-to-East Distance: 4000km
Number of Beaches: Over 7000
Most Valiant Attempt to Save Sheep: World's longest fence (measuring in at 5,531km) keeps Queensland's dingoes in the north sway from sheep in the south
Number of Plant Species: 25,000 (Europe supports only 17,000)
Amount of Foliage Koalas must Eat Daily: 9 kg (about 20 lbs)
Annual Beer Consumption per Australian: 94 L
Common Australian Phrases & Words:
Fair dinkum
True, genuine
Footy
Australian Rules Football
Good on ya!
Good job! Good for you!
Oz/Ozzies
Nickname for Australia/Australians
My shout
I'll buy this round of drinks
Jumper
Sweater
Lollies
Candy
Mackers
McDonald's
Bottle Shop
Liquor store
Singlet
Tank top
Barbie
Barbeque
Prawn
Shrimp
Mozzie
Mosquito
Billabong
Waterhole or place to drink
Corroboree
Aboriginal dance and music festival
Esky
Portable, insulated cooler
Ute
"Utility vehicle" (pickup truck)
The Oldies
The Parents
Featured Tours:
Kakadu Dreamtime Safari
2 nights $1,235
Departs May 11, 2012
There's something for everyone in the Top End - a land of beauty, mysticism and culture. Start with Darwin's modern Troppo architecture and end with a bush shower under the iconic Jim Jim Falls. From start to finish, this Top End getaway offers a taste of the diverse delights of this region. Tap into Indigenous art and culture, cruise the wetlands in search of crocodiles and camp beneath the stars. You will travel through some of the most enchanting land on the planet and meet inimitable characters that you'll never forget.
Includes: Transportation accommodation, tour leader, local payment.
CDN$, per person. Land Only. Other dates available, prices may vary, please contact us for details.
Tassie Explorer
4 nights $720
Departs April 17, 2012
Visit Tasmania and step into a land of exquisite beauty and unspoilt terrain. From flawless beaches, stunning gorges and mineral cliffs to frothing waterfalls, glacial lakes and gigantic hardwood trees, we take you on a journey through a world marked by natural wonders and timeless grace. Enjoy a close look at the incredible attractions Tasmania has to offer, and the rare animals who call Tasmania home, as you travel around this island paradise.
Includes: Transportation accommodation, tour leader, local payment.
CDN$, per person. Land Only. Other dates available, prices may vary, please contact us for details.
