Australia

Itineraries

Touring Australia's East Coast [L52]

16 Days/14 Nights

Sydney (3 Nights), Melbourne (3 Nights), Adelaide (2 Nights), Port Douglas (4 Nights),
Brisbane (2 Nights)


Arrive in Sydney, Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. It's blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. Bursting with character, Sydney is a vibrant city catering to all your desires whether you seek exhilaration and exploration or 100% relaxation

Next is Melbourne, which is set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. The city itself, laid out in a large rectangle and boasting a lively and cosmopolitan pulse, sits on the northern banks of the Yarra River, about five kilometres from the bay. Regional Victoria also boasts a flourishing arts scene, with impressive galleries, museums, and heritage buildings.

Then to Adelaide, which is an elegant city that has preserved its heritage and links with the past and offers a wealth of tourism experiences that are readily accessible from the city. The food and wine experience starts right in the city centre with the National Wine Centre, Adelaide Central Market, vibrant cafes, restaurants boasting some of Australia's best chefs and events such as Tasting Australia.

Travel to Port Douglas, which is framed by the clear blue waters of the Coral Sea and the Great Barrier Reef on one side, and the verdant green of the World Heritage Rainforest on the other, it is surely one of the most scenic destinations in Australia. The village itself boasts great restaurants, sidewalk cafes, boutiques and galleries, framed by tree-lined streets, historic North Queensland architecture and the laid back casual atmosphere of a beachside resort.

Last stop is Brisbane, it has several interesting districts, a good street cafe scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar and a thriving nightlife. Known locally as Bris Vegas, the city is renowned for its sun and the brash, glitzy hordes that follow it, but it's also a thriving arts capital, with dozens of theatres, cinemas, concert halls, galleries and museums.

Features

• Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights)
• Accommodation - Melbourne (3 Nights)
• Accommodation - Adelaide (2 Nights)
• Accommodation - Port Douglas (4 Nights)
• Accommodation - Brisbane (2 Nights)
• US Domestic Flights are Not Included (as per your own arrangements)
• International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Brisbane to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Melbourne, Melbourne to Adelaide, Adelaide to Cairns, Cairns to Brisbane
• Day Tour - Sydney: Opera House Tour
• Day Tour - Melbourne: Great Ocean Road
• Day Tour - Port Douglas: Great Barrier Reef Cruise and Cape Tribulation
• Day Tour - Brisbane: Croc Zoo
• Shuttle Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (return), Cairns Airport to Port Douglas Accommodation (return), Brisbane Airport to Accommodation (return)
• Taxis - Adelaide Airport to Accommodation (return) (pay as you go)
• All Other Day Tours are Optional and not included
• Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (US$15.00 per person)
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - US Domestic Flight - Your Home City to Los Angeles

Your Home City flight to Los Angeles will be selected to suit the International Departure Flight to Australia

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of your US domestic flight and departure of your International flight.

(Day 1 cont) - International Flight - Los Angeles to Sydney

After departing from Los Angeles, you will be provided with an evening meal, you can relax, have a drink, watch a movie and rest. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don't worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to Australia can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

(Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer Sydney Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

(Days 2 to 5) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.

Embrace Sydney's best location with this four star vacation accommodation ideally nestled in the heart of the city. Overlooking Wynyard Park you will enjoy this icon of time-honored tradition, warm hospitality and friendly personal service. Just a short stroll away from many famous attractions including the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Darling Harbour, The Royal Botanical Gardens and more. You will love the luxury of the close accessibility to public transportation including light rail access, train station, the bus system and nearby Circular Quay which will allow you to see much more of Sydney and surrounds. Featuring: 446 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, 2 restaurants, 4 bars, indoor heated pool, sauna, spa, and gymnasium. Amenities: air conditioning, daily maid service, fridge, iron & board, radio channels, shower, coffee & tea, ensuite bathroom, hair dryer, shaving adaptor, sprinklers, smoke detectors, television, telephone, internet access (broadband), data port, wake up calls, mini bar, and 24 hour room service. With all this and more take time out to experience the wonders of Sydney while enjoying all your accommodation has to offer.

Upgrade Available (Upon Request): Stunning 5 Star Property

(Day 2) - Day Tour - Sydney Opera House Tour

On your vacation participate in an inspiring tour of the opera house in Sydney, Australia.

This one hour tour outlines the intricate and controversial history of the Sydney Opera House along with details of the unique design of this architectural masterpiece. You will visit a number of the six performance venues, including the magnificent wood paneled Concert Hall and the Opera Theatre as well as the new Utzon room. You will also visit the glass enclosed northern foyer areas which boast spectacular views of Sydney Harbour - a perfect photo opportunity.

Insiders Tip: Sydney Explorer Tour

The Sydney Explorer is a Hop On, Hop Off, sightseeing bus that takes in 27 key landmarks of the inner city (Opera House, Darling Harbour) and eastern beaches (Coogee and Bondi).

This unique city tour through Sydney departs from Circular Quay every 20 minutes starting at 8:40am, with the last round-trip service departing at 5:20pm. You can get on or off at any of the stops on the route. After traveling through some of Sydney's most exclusive residential areas, the tours take in some of Sydney's most spectacular coastlines and beaches. The bus travels every day along a 30km route and makes numerous stops. The bus trip takes 2 hours to complete the whole journey (with no stops). Buy your tickets onboard ($39 AUD for Adult ticket). Use your ticket stub to get amazing discounts at each stop location. Please Note: Sydney Opera House is one of the stops if you would like to do the Explorer on the same day as your Opera House tour.

For additional information, please visit: http://www.sydneybuses.info/tourist-services/sydney-explorer.htm

(Day 3) - Free Day

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

The Monorail connection to the City Center provides quick transit, or walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or to the lovely tree-lined beach suburb of Manly. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Blue Mountains

On your vacation, discover the spectacular Blue Mountains and see native wildlife Explore World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, located outside of Sydney, Australia.

This rugged and beautiful region forms part of the Great Dividing Range, linking tropical north to temperate south, while dividing coastal cities from the vast Outback. Pass by Homebush Bay, site of the 2000 Olympics. Discover Leura village, a delightful blend of groomed gardens and quaint shops, enjoy free time to wander the streets of Leura. Next we stop at Echo Point and see the famous Three Sisters rock formation. Travel through Katoomba, heart of the resort region within the Blue Mountains National Park and discover the remarkable beauty of Blue Mountains National Park, enjoy an easy walk or Visit Echo Point Lookout, see the Three Sisters and hear the ancient Aboriginal legends of this impressive rock formation, hear traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime tales interpreting the creation of local landmarks. Enjoy 2 course hot lunch with tea, coffee or soft drink. Join the optional Blue Mountain rides - Scenic Railway, Cableway or Skyway (own expense). These are great ways to see the steep valleys, canyons and Three Sisters rock formation. Enjoy a short stop at Cahills Lookout for impressive mountain scenery. Next we enjoy an afternoon encounter at Koala Park and have your photo taken with a cuddly koala, see kangaroos, wombats, dingoes and cute little fairy penguins. Full Day Tour.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Bridge Climb

On your vacation climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney.

Achieve exhilaration and personal satisfaction as you climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge. For approximately two hours you, along with 11 other eager climbers and a climb guide, weave through catwalks, climb up ladders and then arrive at the most spectacular point of all - the upper arch climb. The steady incline to the upper arch leaves you free to focus your attention on your Sydney experience, with opportunities for 360 degree views of Sydney, including east to the ocean, west to the mountains and the harbour city surrounds. It is at this point that you not only have a bird's eye view of the beautiful Sydney Harbour and the city, but have the exhilaration of the truly rewarding experience of reaching the top to the Harbour Bridge in Sydney, Australia. When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement that you'll remember forever - you've conquered an Australian icon recognised the world over! No other Sydney tourist attraction can give you this feeling of standing at the top of the world, with the Harbour spread before you. All climbers will be issued a complimentary photograph of their climb group.

(Day 4) - Free Day

With Sydney at your fingertips, take the chance to explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities.

The Monorail connection to the City Center provides quick transit, or walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or to the lovely tree-lined beach suburb of Manly. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Hunter Valley Wines

Winery Tour in the Hunter Valley.

Departs Daily (except Mon & Sat ) in the morning (Full Day Tour). Credited with being one of the premier wine regions in the world, let us tempt your taste buds as we showcase 3 of the regions best wineries. We meander through the majestic Hunter Valley and include wine tasting at Wyndham Estate, McGuigans and McWilliams Mt Pleasant winery. Take the time to refresh your palette with local cheeses (own expense) or browse the quaint little gift shops of Wollombi. A delicious steak and vegetables lunch with damper (aussie bread) is included whilst you sit back and enjoy learning the "tricks of the trade". Partake in a tour of the wine making process. (Vegetarian meals available). Return to Sydney late afternoon. Evening Free.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Taronga Zoo

Taronga Zoo is the nation's leading zoological garden, featuring Australia's finest collection of native animals and a diverse collection of exotic species.

What makes Taronga something special is its location. It is situated on elevated land along the waterfront, in one of the most beautiful vantage points on Sydney Harbour overlooking Sydney Cove, the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Taronga Zoo is approximately 12 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay and the CBD. (Ferries depart Circular Quay, every quarter past and quarter to the hour).

As you zigzag your way along the paths among the animal enclosures, you are able to enjoy magnificent harbour views. The Taronga Zoo has its own jetty and you are able step off the boat and walk directly into the zoo. It is always best to start your tour of the Zoo from the top entrance. That way you'll be walking downhill facing the harbour. You'll then be continually surprised as you turn a corner and catch a different vista of the horizon. Then, when you reach the bottom you can catch the Zoo Sky Safari chair lift to take you to the top again and begin your downhill trek along a different path.

Sky Safari cable car operates between the Zoo wharf and the Top Entrance from 9.30am to 5.00pm daily. Taronga Zoo is open every day of the year from 9am to 5pm (including Christmas Day).

Regular Admission prices are as follows (all prices in AUD): Adults $39.00; Children (4-15 years) $19.00; Children under 4 Free

(Day 5) - Shuttle Transfer Sydney Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia, to the Airport.

(Day 5 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Sydney to Melbourne

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to Melbourne.

(Day 5 cont) - Shuttle Transfer Melbourne Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Melbourne, Australia.

(Days 5 to 8) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne

Travel to your accommodation in Melbourne, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 3 nights.


Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located in the heart of Melbourne, Australia. Its suites are equipped with kitchenettes, air conditioning, and ensuite bathrooms. Most are facing on to the hotel's private European style courtyard. The vacation accommodation is close to Chinatown. Or perhaps stroll to the Southern Cross Station and travel by tram throughout the city. For the less adventurous, Melbourne is the perfect launching pad for day tours to such places like Phillip Island and Penguins, or perhaps the Great Ocean Road.

(Day 6) - Day Tour - Great Ocean Road

Spend today on a tour of the most beautiful section of Victoria's south coast, an adventure along the Great Ocean Road.

Enjoy one of the world's greatest coastal drives - it's severity and striking contrasts will remain etched in your memory forever. Enjoy views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay from the West Gate Bridge, Stroll along the pristine sandy beaches and wander through the sleepy seaside holiday towns. Discover the deep lush fern gullies and eucalypt trees that roll down to the sheer cliffs that plunge dramatically into the ocean. View majestic monoliths dramatically protruding from the sea including the Twelve Apostles which are the world's largest coastal limestone towers - an awesome spectacle. Marvel at Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge - millions of years of erosion have sculpted these incredible landmarks. After the day tour return to your Melbourne hotel (late evening arrival).

(Day 7) - Free Day

Today you'll have the day free to Explore Melbourne City's vast shopping centres, markets and boutiques, maybe do some souvenir shopping.

Melbourne is a Multicultural City boasting many boutique cafes, wineries and extensive shopping. You'll also find it very easy to get around on the trains and trams, especially within the inners of Melbourne.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Philip Island

Phillip Island is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including Australia's largest fur seal colony, the little penguins and cuddly koalas. Enjoy getting close to koalas and kangaroos before joining the little penguins at dusk, as they emerge from the surf and waddle to their burrows.

In the afternoon visit Warrook Farm, a working cattle property, and enjoy the opportunity to feed kangaroos. Then at Phillip Island visit the Koala Conservation Centre and observe cuddly koalas. View Nobbies and Australia's largest seal population. See the seaside town of Cowes and the Visitors Information Centre. At dusk, enjoy the 'little penguin parade' and see penguins make their way to their dune burrows (no flash cameras allowed during the parade).

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Puffing Billy

Puffing Billy, Yarra Valley Wineries and Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary - Wine Lovers Alternative

Ride the Puffing Billy Steam Train through lush forests before sampling traditional Australian billy tea and lamington cakes. In the Yarra Valley enjoy wine tasting and the company of local winemakers at Fergusson's Winery. After lunch (including lunch, vegetarian available) continue on to visit two more vineyards, Domaine Chandon and Rockford's Eyton for further wine-tastings and a winery tour.

Insiders Tip: Queen Victoria Market

The Queen Victoria Market is an historic Melbourne landmark and a Melbourne institution dating back to more than 120 years ago.

Queen Victoria Market hasn’t been just a market. At different times in the past it has been a cemetery, a livestock market and a place to sell fruit and veggies (vegetables) wholesale. It is said to be the southern hemisphere’s largest open-air market offering a variety of fresh farm produce and, on Sundays, a wider range of merchant items which turn the market into a modern Arabian Nights bazaar. This is the place to buy your souvenirs.

Aside from the variety of wares offered at the Queen Victoria Market, buskers and street entertainment are a market feature, particularly on Sundays when Queen St is closed and becomes a place of cafes, carnival rides and other activities. And there's always the sound of spruikers cajoling visitors into buying their goods, and you can haggle for the best prices you're able to get.

The Queen Victoria Market trading hours are 6am to 2pm on Tuesday and Thursday; 6am to 6pm (with the general merchandise section closing at 4pm) on Friday; 6am to 3pm on Saturday; and 9am to 4pm on Sunday. The market is closed on Monday and Wednesday, and on Good Friday, Anzac Day, Melbourne Cup Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. (Please double check times before you go.)

(Day 8) - Shuttle Transfer Melbourne Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation to the Airport in Melbourne, Australia.

(Day 8 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Melbourne to Adelaide

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Melbourne to Adelaide.

(Day 8 cont) - Taxi from Adelaide Airport to Accommodation (pay as you go)

Taxi transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

(Days 8 to 10) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Adelaide

Travel to your accommodation in Adelaide, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.


Your accommodation is superbly situated in the heart of the city on Adelaide's key cultural boulevard, North Terrace. Only 10 minutes from the airport and 20 minutes from Adelaide's premier beachside suburb, Glenelg.

The hotel is ideally located opposite the Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide Casino and Parliament House, and within walking distance to the Festival Centre, River Torrens, Adelaide’s historic parklands, cinemas and boutique shopping.

(Day 9) - Free Day

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Adelaide City Tour

An Excellent Introduction to Adelaide - a charming city with a sense of history and full of surprises.

Enjoy the charm and character of the famous landmarks, beautiful parks and stunning architecture. Travel along North Terrace, the cultural boulevard of the city, and visit St Peter’s Cathedral. See great views from Montefiore Hill and sample tempting chocolates at Haigh’s Chocolates (Mon.-Sat.). 1/2 Day

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Kangaroo Island Discovery

Discover the magnificent flora and fauna of Kangaroo Island. Tour through several different island habitats to see wildlife in its natural environment.

Your day begins at the Adelaide bus terminal for a scenic coach trip down through the Fleurieu Peninsula to Cape Jervis.

You’ll then board a fast and comfortable ferry for the 45 minute crossing to Kangaroo Island. On arrival, settle back in comfort and let the scenery slide past on your way to Seal Bay where you will enjoy a beach walk among a breeding colony of Australian sea-lions. Guided by a National Parks Guide, this really is the experience of a lifetime. Bring your camera!

After a two course lunch, head on down to Flinders Chase National Park for the rest of the afternoon. Flinders Chase is internationally renowned as a sanctuary for a host of native Australian animals - kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, echidnas, goannas and more. Walk along the rugged southern coastline (on specially constructed walkways to protect both you and the environment!) to Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch. Remarkable Rocks provides a spectacular backdrop for all you creative photographers so bring plenty of film. Admiral’s Arch boardwalk takes you down a rugged cliff face to confront a spectacular rock arch and a nursery haven for fur seals. Watch the fur seals diving, playing or just lolling about on the sun-drenched rocks, warming up again after swimming in the surf.

Your Kangaroo Island Highlights experience comes to a conclusion at the airport or ferry terminal for your return journey to Adelaide.

(Day 10) - Taxi from Adelaide Accommodation to Airport (pay as you go)

Taxi transfer as per your own arrangements (pay as you go).

(Day 10 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Adelaide to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Adelaide to Cairns.

(Day 10 cont) - Shuttle Transfer Cairns Airport to Port Douglas Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia.

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

Pickups are conducted with a maximum waiting time of 20 minutes after collection of baggage from flight. If you are unable to meet within this time frame you will be required to wait for the next available shuttle.

(Days 10 to 14) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Port Douglas

Travel to your accommodation in Port Douglas, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 4 nights.

Your vacation luxury boutique accommodation is located within walking distance of the three icons of Port Douglas - 200 metres from 4-Mile Beach, 100 metres from Macrossan Street and 400 metres to the Marina Village, where boats depart daily to Australia's Outer Great Barrier Reef. The apartments are equipped with air conditioning, ceiling fans, cable TV, CD & DVD players, microwave, fridge, dishwasher, laundry facilities and security basement car parking. There is a Lagoon style pool, an outdoor BBQ/ entertaining area, and an 8 person spa amongst a luscious tropical garden. Travel to the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation or maybe to the Great Barrier Reef. Port Douglas offers a winning combination of a cosmopolitan township and friendly village. You can relax from your travel or shop, dine in award winning restaurants and visit superb galleries and craft stores. (Children under age 15 are not catered for at this property. Other properties available upon request.)

*Optional upgrade to 5 Star Accommodation is available. Pricing upon request

(Day 11) - Day Tour - Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Today you will cruise out to the crystal clear waters, beautiful corals and incredible fish life found at the Agincourt Ribbon Reefs located on the very outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef, which is the best possible for boat diving and snorkeling.

Your cruise will include courtesy transfers from the Port Douglas area, Morning and Afternoon tea, cake and fruit platter, Delicious tropical buffet lunch with prawns (very large shrimp), reef interpretation talk, guided snorkel tour with marine naturalist, all snorkel equipment and tuition to include prescription masks, lycra suits and flotation devices, spacious air conditioned bar and saloon area, fresh water showers, 3 spectacular reef sites, professional photographer on board.

No problems if you wish to dive. This can be coordinated and will include DRIFT and WALL DIVES, isolated pinnacles surrounded by Pelagic fish, and coral gardens with their endless variety of colorful wrasses, cods, parrot fish, angel fish, clams and anemones, that make a healthy living reef so beautiful. All our sites have been selected for both the shallower coral gardens favored by snorkellers, and the adjacent deeper walls and drop-offs preferred by scuba divers.

NB: $12.00 Marine Park & Fuel Levy Payable on Board (Not Included)
Introductory Diving available on request

(Day 12) - Day Tour - Cape Tribulation

Travel along a scenic coastal drive to experience the wildlife, rainforest, rivers and beaches of the region.

At the entrance of Port Douglas explore the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary stop and have morning tea along with a guided tour through the three wildlife environments (rainforest, wetlands and grasslands) where you can experience a cacophony of wildlife. Take a guided rainforest walk where you'll have a stop at the picturesque Mossman Gorge then cross the Daintree River by cable driven ferry into the magnificent wilderness region that embraces the diverse coastal scenery and the oldest rainforest on earth, Daintree National Park. Relax at Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa where you'll enjoy a tropical buffet lunch. Then stroll along the beach or boardwalks of the World Heritage listed Cape Tribulation Beach that holds magnificent views where the oldest rainforest in the world meets the Great Barrier Reef. View the breathtaking scenery of the Daintree River and Coral Sea at the Alexandra Lookout. Keep a look out for the abundant crocodiles on a guided River Cruise through the mangroves of the Daintree River. Have a refreshing cup of afternoon tea before heading back.

Includes: Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary, Daintree Cruise, Cape Tribulation, Buffet Lunch, Guided Walks, morning and afternoon tea
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:30am Return: 5:30pm
Operation Days: Daily

*Optional Upgrade available to join a small group (Max 8 people) 4WD tour offering "Advanced Eco Experience". Pricing available upon request.

(Day 13) - Free Day

Free time to rest, relax or explore.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Kuranda

Glide Silently above the Rainforest canopy aboard the Skyrail Cableway to Kuranda.

Experience the magic of the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary before visiting Rainforest station where you can feed kangaroos and view koalas. Enjoy a show by the Pamagirri Aboriginal Dancers, set in a rainforest amphitheatre. Try your hand at boomerang throwing then board the amphibious Army Duck, crossing land and water through the rainforest. Relax over a tropical barbecue lunch. Journey back to Cairns on the Kuranda Scenic Railway, passing waterfalls and ravines. Pick ups from Port Douglas for a full day tour.

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Hartley's Croc Adventure

Make wise time of your stay in Port Douglas with a half-day tour to the best place to experience crocodiles in Tropical North Queensland with Hartley's Crocodile Adventure!

This Croc Adventure provides an innovative approach to viewing and interacting with wildlife, enabling visitors to become immersed in a natural environment with safety. A series of timber boardwalks provide elevated viewing of wildlife as visitors journey through a range of natural habitats. It is home to a range of habitat types including melaleuca wetlands, riverine rainforest and eucalypt woodland. In this eco adventure you can cruise the lagoon which has guaranteed croc sightings with opportunities for great action photos of pole feedings. See the head shakes and death rolls of huge crocs at the Crocodile Attack Show and see some of the world's most venomous snakes at the Snake Show. Explore the parks abundance of wildlife which includes water birds, turtles, wallabies and cassowaries. If you're brave enough take a photo with you holding a crocodile! (Own expense)

Suggested Itinerary: Crocodile Feeding, optional Digital Photo Opportunity (Own expense), Wetlands Cruise, Snake Show & Crocodile Attack Show

Includes: Transfers to and from Accommodation, Entry into Hartley's Crocodile Park, Park Shows, a scenic drive along the Captain Cook Highway ; Not Included: Lunch (Own Expense)

Estimated Times: Departure: 10am Return: 4:10pm

(Day 14) - Shuttle Transfer Port Douglas Accommodation to Cairns Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Port Douglas vacation accommodation to the Airport in Cairns, Australia.

Luggage restrictions apply as per standard economy Australian domestic flights of 2 standard bags under 30kg (66 lbs) per passenger. Excess baggage is AUD$5.00 per bag payable on board. If traveling with excess baggage please advise the shuttle company upon reservation confirmation so appropriate trailer size is available.

(Day 14 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight - Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 14 cont) - Shuttle Transfer Brisbane Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Airport to your vacation accommodation in Brisbane, Australia.

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Days 14 to 16) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Brisbane

Travel to your accommodation in Brisbane, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights.

Your 3 Star vacation accommodation is conveniently located in Brisbane's city centre. It is within walking distance to the Queen Street Mall shopping precinct, Treasury Casino, South Bank Parklands, Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Recently, the hotel went through a major refurbishment. Its rooms are equipped with free coffee/tea making facility, fridge, air conditioning, and hair dryer.

(Day 15) - Day Tour - Australia Zoo

Travel along the Glasshouse Mountains scenic route 2 hours North of Brisbane to the Wildlife Park of the famous Crocodile Hunter (Steve Irwin) at the Australia Zoo.

You will be taken directly to and from the Wildlife Park and have nearly 6 hours to experience the best of the zoo. Take in the many daily shows and demonstrations where you can see exciting snakes, birds and crocodiles in action! The "Call of the Wild" experience leads you to Steve's home and over 550 animals that you would only expect to see in the wilds of Australia. Experience a truly remarkable day as you watch a demonstration featuring wild crocodiles. Meet Amelia, the Wedged-Tailed Eagle and other birds of prey. Watch the small clawed otters frolic and Harriet, the world's oldest giant Galapagos land tortoise, as they feed. Encounter cuddly Koalas close up and join in the feeding of the kangaroos and wallabies. This is a day to experience the pleasures of the wild and watch very experienced professional handlers get close to extremely dangerous creatures. Don't miss the opportunity to take a photo with a snake at the Croc Hunter Museum or see the wild caught croc demo. Keep your eyes out for handlers walking through the park with the animals so you can get "up close and personal". With many more shows including foxes, camels, otters, koalas and birds you're sure to have a wild time!

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Entry to Australia Zoo
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:45am Return: 5:30pm

Upgrades Available: Hire a Caddie Tour, Safari Guided Tour & Private Guided Tour
Self Drive Upgrades: Platinum Zoo Adventure

(Day 16) - Shuttle Transfer Brisbane Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your vacation accommodation in Brisbane, Australia, to the Airport.

Luggage is limited to 2 suitcases per person. Excess luggage, surfboards & bicycles will be carried at a rate of $10.00 AUD per item. All luggage must be clearly labelled by the passenger, including name and full address. Valuable items (e.g. jewellery, expensive equipment, cash etc) should be carried by the passenger on their person. Passengers are strongly advised to take out appropriate travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances.

(Day 16 cont) - International Flight - Brisbane to Los Angeles

Mid-day Departure from Brisbane, In-flight Dinner and Movie with arrival in the USA. Note: You will be traveling back across the International Date line so you will gain a day. You actually arrive in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.

The Qantas Boeing 747-400 is equipped with the latest entertainment features of any Airline. The overnight flight to the USA can be a good opportunity for sleeping or to watch the latest movies after your evening meal.

(Day 16 cont) - US Domestic Flight - Los Angeles to Your Home City

The connection flight to your Home City from Los Angeles will be selected to suit the International Arrival flight from Australia.

Please allow 3 hours between arrival of International flight before departure of your US domestic flight.