Australia's native history is thought to date back 50 000, when the now Aboriginal people first embarked on the country from the East. Today, despite its vast size, Australia is relatively sparsely populated, which gives it the prime opportunity to showcase its natural beauty without being overcrowded or overdeveloped. This country also benefits from the best of a few worlds ? temperate weather, stunning beaches, cosmopolitan metropoles, an array of fascinating wildlife and friendly people.



The Outback is one of the natural wonders that sets Australia apart. Vast expanses of red desert are speckled with novel vegetation and waterholes that resemble oases. The red-hot sun sets against the backdrop of amber dunes in one spectacular instant. The Outback boasts cultural and historical significance as it is crammed with ancient Aboriginal artefacts and not a few rural pubs.

Australian beaches offer a totally different, albeit equally impressive, experience of this continent. With 50 000 kilometres of pristine coastline, it is no wonder that Australia has long been the ideal destination for families and surfers alike. In addition, because of the large expanses of beach-line available, they are not overcrowded. So, whether you are visiting New South Whales, Victoria, Tasmania or Queensland, the beaches are sure to lure you to their white shores day after hot summer's day.

The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant Tour of Melbourne is one of the most popular tourist attractions in this city. This tramcar will transport you through Melbourne to South Melbourne, St Kilda, Prahran and Malvern, all while dining on fine cuisine and enjoying a private look at the world through one-way glass. Luxury and elegance compliment the 4-course lunch, early 3-course dinner or late 5-course dinner. Air-conditioning, tasteful music and silver service is all part of this exclusive package.

The Blue Mountains Deluxe Small Group Eco Tour from Sydney is an 11-hour tour for a small group visiting Sydney. The Blue Mountains are a World Heritage Region, home to rainforests, sandstone cliff faces and sweeping landscapes. The Blue Mountains National Park is the ultimate destination of this excursion. After an early start, you will enjoy breakfast with Koala bears at the Featherdale Wildlife Park, followed by lunch at the Imperial Hotel. The local plant- and animal life continues to amaze explorers, as do the spectacular views of the surrounding area. To finish off a day full of exciting Australian sights and sounds, sip on an ice-cold glass of champagne as wild kangaroos look on curiously.

Because of the array of sights and activities available to visitors in Australia, tourists are guaranteed of a busy schedule. Whether you visit the iconic Sydney harbour, Melbourne's acclaimed shopping Meccas, Adelaide's colonial architecture, or the Gold Coast's 70 kilometres of exquisite beaches, you will be sure to return home with memories and photographs to last a lifetime.

The credit crunch does not mean you can save while touring any country and give up on luxuries you're used to. Enjoy the friendly people and great service the world still has to offer!