The Whitsundays Island Chain lies along Australia's Queensland in the midst of the famous Great Barrier Reef in the warm waters of the Coral Sea. This group of 74 islands is the perfect destination for travelers interested in a luxury travel vacation. The Whitsunday islands are one of the most popular destinations for tourists, especially local Australians and Europeans. The destination is also becoming very popular for American tourists.

The Natural Splendor

The natural beauty and diversity you find in the Whitsundays are characteristic of any Australian luxury vacation. The islands are mostly protected habitats that are maintained by the Australian government. The coral reefs are the birthing grounds for many tropical marine species. Although they are protected, there are a number of companies that are licensed to lead snorkeling and diving day trips. Some islands are lush tropical paradises filled with exotic flora and fauna, whereas others are barren desert islands. You can see the green expanses of Laguna's golf greens, the cane fields and sugar mills of Proserpine and the best beach in the world at Whitehaven. Learn how you can save on your next luxury travel vacation by visiting http://www450.pair.com/amtfrank/american-express-exclusives.html.

Different Travel Experiences

Once you have chosen the Whitsundays to be a part of your upcoming luxury travel vacation, you must decide how to best take advantage of the experience. Boating is a popular way to experience the Whitsundays. Although these tiny islands are not accessible by the large luxury world cruise ships, there are often day excursions from nearby Brisbane. You might consider chartering a small yacht to explore these islands, which is not nearly as pricey as you might imagine. If you are interested in discovering the Islands through a land stay, there are a number of luxury resorts that are available. You can even be adventurous by camping on your own deserted island in one of the many national parks.

Choose an Island

Although there are 74 islands, only eight of the Whitsundays are inhabited ? making it a perfect place for a truly intimate experience on any luxury travel vacation. Hamilton Island is the most commercially developed island. Hamilton has its own airport, and there are many options for hotel stays, ranging from deluxe to the highest in luxury. Whitsunday Island is the largest in the Whitsunday chain, and is the home of the famous Whitehaven Beach. This beach is so spectacular that it is on most people's "must see" list of destinations to visit in a lifetime. The main attraction is the pure white silica sand, along a five mile stretch. Hook Island is the second largest Whitsunday Island. Hook has one small resort and an underwater observatory, but little else. The rest of the island is a national park. Hayman Island is home to the most exclusive resort and the whole island is privately owned. From Hayman, you can gain access to some beautiful coral reefs.

The Whitsundays are a perfect addition to any luxury travel vacation. The natural beauty and diversity of plant and animal life is attractive for all nature enthusiasts. Although often thought of as pricey and exclusive, there are a number of ways to see these islands, and a number of price brackets. With eight different islands to choose from, the possibilities are endless. Add the Whitsunday Islands to your list of travel must sees. Visit http://www.amtvacations.com/american-express-vacations.html to see more options for you next luxury travel vacation.