Australia

Itineraries

Brisbane, Cairns & Sydney Vacation Package [L42]

10 Days / 8 Nights - Brisbane, Cairns, Sydney

Arrive in Brisbane, a city which was once described a big country town has now emerged as one of the country's most progressive centres. Brisbane has several fascinating districts, a good street cafe scene, a great riverside park, a busy cultural calendar and a thriving nightlife. Nearby you can see many different types of unique Australian animals and reptiles at Australia Zoo.

Your next stop in Australia is Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland. Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a city alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. Tour the Great Barrier Reef with its opportunities to snorkel and swim. Experience the lush green ferns and waterfalls in the heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. Explore Cape Tribulation and the cruise the Daintree River. Experience authentic aboriginal culture with a tour to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.

Finally, visit Sydney, Australia's oldest city, the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country's capital in everything but name. Sydney is blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. Maybe cruise the Sydney Harbour, tour the Opera house and for the adventurous, climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Features

• Accommodation - Brisbane (2 nights), Cairns (4 nights), Sydney (2 nights)
• USA Domestic Air is not included (as per your own arrangements)
• International Air - Los Angeles to Brisbane, Sydney to Los Angeles
• Australian Domestic Air Sectors - Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Sydney
• Shuttle Transfers - Brisbane Airport to Accommodation (return), Cairns Airport to Accommodation (return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (return)
• Day Tours - Brisbane: Australian Zoo; Cairns: Wildlife Dome, Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Sydney: Sydney Opera House (1 hour)
• All other day tours are optional and not included.
• Visa Issuance for entry into Australia ($15 per person)
• F.I.T. (Free & Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organised Group Tour)
• Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - US Domestic Flight, Hometown 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) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Brisbane

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 Brisbane, Australia. (you lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don't worry you'll 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, 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 2 to 4) - 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 3) - 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 (closed Christmas Day: 25 Dec)
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

Optional Upgrade (Pricing Available Upon Request) - Australia Zoo Caddie Tour

Spoil yourself with an upgrade to your Australia Zoo experience with a caddie chauffer for 5 hours!

Make it all about YOU at Australia Zoo with a new experience to spoil yourself on your wild day out! The 'Hire a caddie for a day' tour gives you the opportunity to have your very own caddie chauffeur take you on a mind blowing journey around Australia Zoo that you will never forget. Choose your very own caddie* from the profiles below to suit the experience that you wish, whether it is an educational tour you are after or a crazy adventure…it is entirely up to you! This tour will give you the inside knowledge on Australia Zoo.

Profiles: Available upon request

Includes: Choosing your own experienced caddie for a VIP day*, Five star chauffeured service in your very own private buggy, Flexibility to customize your tour, VIP seating in the Crocoseum, Refreshments

Duration: Five hours. No. of people: Maximum of four people per caddie

* Please note that the caddie that you select for the day is subject to availability

(Day 4) - 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 4 cont) - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Cairns.

(Day 4 cont) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Airport to Accommodation

Travel by shuttle from the Cairns Airport to your vacation accommodation 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.

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 4 to 8) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Beautiful Cairns

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


Your 4 star accommodation, combines fresh contemporary decor with relaxing North Queensland style. This bright and spacious 314 room hotel is perfect for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree Rainforest or Kuranda and the Atherton Tablelands. Other nearby highlights include: Cairns Casino, Marlin Jetty, the Esplanade and the Night Markets. Unwind with a cocktail by the lagoon pool or kick back with live music in the Bar followed by a sumptuous buffet or a la carte meal in the restaurant.

All rooms and suites have individual balconies, individually controlled air conditioning, refrigerator with mini bar, colour television, in-house movies, telephone, iron and ironing board, along with tea and coffee making facilities. Facilities include: a swimming pool with sandy beach, swim up bar, walk in bar, restaurant, 24 hour reception and porter, room service, valet laundry, dry cleaning, coin laundry, gymnasium, undercover parking, conference facilities, facsimile service, internet, tour desk, lobby shop, foreign exchange, babysitting (on request)

(Day 4 cont) - Day Tour of Cairns Wildlife Dome

Discover the 'Zoo in the City' built atop the Cairns Reef Hotel Casino!

At Cairns Wildlife Dome located in the heart of the city, you can explore the sights, sounds and secrets of the rainforest wildlife in this spectacular enclosed glass dome wildlife exhibit. Immerse yourself in the replicated rainforest environment while different species of birds fly freely and pet the roaming wallabies in their enclosure. Enjoy the complimentary guided tours, daily interactive animal presentations, and great photo opportunities. You'll have a blast as you watch the afternoon feedings, get up close with a crocodile, watch the free flying birds, cuddle with furry friends and watch the nocturnal creatures awaken. Don't miss out on taking your photo with a koala (own expense)! If you do no worries, the dome is within walking distance of your accommodation and your ticket is good for re-entry for up to 4 days.

Operation Days: Daily
Includes: Entry, Re-Entry with Ticket (Up to 4 days), Shows & Presentations

Upgrade (Additional Cost): Koala Photo

(Day 5) - Day Tour - Australia's Natural Wonder, the Great Barrier Reef

Today you'll go on a cruise onboard the T5 to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the natural wonders of the world, and not surprisingly the world's most extensive coral reef.

T5 departs daily from Cairns. A 90 minute journey to the outer reef will see you arriving at the first of the day’s two sites, selected from a range of 15 from coral gardens to caves and canyons to walls and drop offs, many of which are exclusively owned by the tour operator. Sites are chosen as the optimum locations for the weather conditions, and change daily, so each day will bring you a whole new underwater adventure! Diving (Certified and Introductory) and snorkeling are all on offered at the reef, where 5 hours allows plenty of time to enjoy water and topside activities.
Includes: Transfers to and from Cairns & Northern Beaches hotels, Marine Interpretation talks, underwater photography briefs, 1 guided snorkel tour, 3 Certified and 2 Introductory dives are available on board at own expense. Lunch is a divine buffet of fresh and healthy food. Quality Up to Date Snorkel and Dive Equipment: wet suit, lycra suit, dive computer & prescription mask.

Fees (Not Included): EMC, Port fees, & administration costs - pay on board $20 per person (Including $5 EMC pp charge for all passengers age 4 and over entering the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park). Alcoholic beverages and sodas may be purchased on board.

What to bring: Beach towels (available at your accommodation), a dry change of clothes, hat, sunglasses & an underwater disposable camera (available from your local chemist or convenience stores).

Upgrade to Introductory or Certified Diving (Extra Cost):
Introductory Dive: Participants are required to complete a medical questionnaire upon boarding. A history of asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy are some of the conditions that may preclude you from diving.
Certified Dive: Certified divers are required to produce their Certification Cards upon boarding, and sign paperwork stating they are mentally and physically fit to dive. The diving is conducted in buddy pairs, with guided diving with a dive master available as an optional extra.

(Days 6 and 7) - Free Days to Explore

Take the day and explore what could be considered the capital of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns!

A major outlet to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest amongst its many attractions, the tropical paradise of Cairns is sure to enchant you. With many area activities centrally located there's enough to occupy everyone in the family because Cairns literally has it all! Have a visit to the Esplanade where you can experience all walks of life and make memories. With a nightlife that caters to singles and families alike you're visit will be filled with so many things to do, so take a deep breath and have fun!

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Kuranda and the Daintree Rainforest

Today you'll visit the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, have a delicious buffet lunch, then later glide over the rainforest canopy aboard Skyrail. Explore Kuranda, then board the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway for the awe-inspiring journey home.

Take a glimpse into the authentic Aboriginal culture with a visit to the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Here they combine dance theatre with demonstrations of traditional camp life and you'll be able to witness a celebration of song and dance as the Tjapukai perform corroborees and share with you the stories of their totems. Then, enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at Boomerang Restaurant. Next, glide over the canopy of pristine World Heritage Rainforest with stops at Barron Falls and Red Peak Stations aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Arrive in Kuranda the "Village in the Rainforest" where you can meander through the many shops and markets of this Mountain Village. Lastly, board the Kuranda Scenic Railway, where you'll pass dramatic waterfalls, rainforest and deep ravines as you wind your way through tunnels and over bridges on this magnificent journey, passing Stoney Creek and Barron Falls.

Includes: Tjapukai, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Scenic Railway, Kuranda Levy, Buffet Lunch
Estimated Times: Departure: 8:00am Return: 5:15pm
Operation Days: Daily

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Wooroonooran Safari

Journey to the ancient and undiscovered, World Heritage listed rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park.

Located just a half hour south of Cairns, this Wooroonooran offers unsurpassed beauty. Offering numerous rivers, waterfalls, swimming holes and lush rainforests you can revitalize yourself in this tranquil setting. Start your day with along the tropical path to the breath taking granite gorge at Babinda Boulders. Learn about the evolution of the rainforests and the millions of years it took to forge the gorge along with the ancient Aboriginal Boulder creation legend. Next, take a short walk to the secluded freshwater swimming hole of Josephine Falls at the foot of Queensland's tallest mountain, Mt. Bartle Frere. Experience the beauty of cascading waterfalls as they flow into large pools surrounded by boulders. Be sure to bring your swimsuit so you can take the exciting plunge down a natural rockslide into the cool refreshing waters. After the excitement of the morning, enjoy a fine lunch of Australian-Italian buffet with a variety of dishes and desserts. After lunch, walk high above the tree tops on one of Australia's grandest man made structures on the Mamu Canopy Walkway. The combination of the walkway, observation tower and viewing decks offer unexplored views of the Johnstone River gorge and surrounding rainforest landscapes. Lastly, tantalize your senses with a swim in the magical waters of Lake Eacham. This old volcanic crater lake of the Atherton Tablelands offers great swimming and snorkeling with opportunities to see turtles and water dragons as they swim with you. No matter the age this tour offers adventure, fun and education of the untamed wilderness with the knowledge and experience of your naturalist guides.

Includes: Transfers to/from accommodation, delicious buffet lunch, life-vest (children only), snorkel equipment, small group (12 max)
Estimated Times: Departs: 8.00AM Return: 6.00PM
Operation Days: Daily

Optional Day Tour (Not Included) - Sail Away to the Low Isles

Today you will enjoy a day to remember with a sail out to the protected Low Isles, an unspoiled coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef. You have 4.5 hours to explore the coral cay, white sandy beaches and coconut palms whilst marveling at the coral gardens and the Coral Sea that surround you.

Enjoy the relaxing sail to and from the island as you will be transferred by tender to the island itself which is situated on a large coral platform consisting of a small coral cay, a large mangrove island, mudflats, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. Surrounded by 55 acres of coral reef comprised of 150 species of hard corals and dominated by 15 species of soft corals it is an ideal place for snorkelling. Living in the blue lagoon are a large variety of reef fish including angelfish, damselfish, anemones, giant trevally, sweetlip, fusiliers and many green turtles are sighted daily. Be sure not to miss out on the Heritage Walk where you can learn about the islands history and environment and visit the lighthouse built in 1878. There are also a number of bird species on which you may encounter including pelicans, honeyeaters, white breasted wood swallows, mangrove kingfishers, reef egrets with sea eagles and ospreys wheeling overhead.

Includes: Courtesy transfers from Cairns accommodation, relaxing sailing time, morning/afternoon tea, coffee, cakes and fruit platter, Alfresco gourmet tropical buffet lunch, glass bottom boat for viewing, unlimited access to Low Island, Heritage Walk, guided snorkel with marine naturalist, all snorkel equipment and tuition to include lycra suits and flotation devices, fresh hot and cold showers, spacious luxury interior with an air conditioned bar & saloon.

Payable on board: $5.00 Marine Park Fee (Not Included)

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Cairns Night Zoo

Enjoy a great Australian night out at the Cairns Night Zoo!

Enjoy a sumptuous Australian barbeque dinner including steak, sausages, chicken, and seafood's with salads and delicious desserts then perhaps enjoy a drink from the licensed bar (not included). After your savory dinner, explore the creatures of the night by torchlight as you journey into the darkness. Learn how owls hunt, touch a possum, pat a koala and see the glowing eyes of the crocodiles in your torchlight as you enter their lair. If you have a clear night, look up towards the skies and star gaze to see the Southern Cross, the Big Dipper and other well known constellations. Cross paths with a "Swaggie" (an original Australian bushman), and join them for billy tea and damper with him by the campfire. Their friends, the kangaroos, will come down and maybe even share a bite to eat! After complimentary cold beer or wine, join in the fun as you learn some famous Aussie Bush Dances. Make the night a memorable one, so dance and sing along!

Includes: Transfers to/from accommodation, Aussie Barbeque Dinner (Vegetarian option available), Guided Night Tour, Billy Tea, Bush Dances
Operation Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday
Estimated Times: 7.00pm and 10.00pm

Optional Day Tour (not included) - Hot Air Balloon Ride

Enjoy the experience of a lifetime with this half day tour including a hot air balloon ride and delicious hot champagne breakfast!

Whether this is your first or one of many, this balloon ride is sure to be one of your favorites with a fun and highly trained crew to help maximize your fun. This morning, head about an hour west for take off to the Atherton Tablelands known for its excellent weather, spectacular scenery and reliable take off conditions. You will be in awe as you see the largest fleet of hot air balloons prepare to sail the skies. On your ride take in the picturesque landscapes at sunrise as you fly gently above the Tablelands. Even if you have a fear of heights, you'll see that your flight is very gentle and stable since you gently lift from the ground making you feel comfortable and safe. Experience the unique sensation of breathing in the crisp air on your 30 minute hot air ballooning ride across the wide-open space. When the burner is off, listen to the sounds around you as the wind whips through the air and the sounds below drift up towards you. After your flight, come back down to Earth for landing and have lots of laughs as you assist in hot air balloon pack-up games. Next, enjoy champagne, fresh juices, eggs & bacon, tropical fruits & a hot and cold buffet as you relax in the serenity of the Australian bush at a historic country homestead. Raise a toast and cheers for your amazing balloon ride as you head back to your accommodation.

Includes: Transfers to/from Accommodation, 30 minute Hot Air Balloon Ride, Expert Commentary, Delicious Hot & Cold Breakfast, Champagne Toast, Cross Country Balloon Chase, Commemorative balloon Flight Certificate
Payable on Board (Not Included) - AUD25.00* Civil Aviation Insurance Levy
Estimated Times: Depart: 5:00AM Return10:00AM
Operation Days: Daily

Upgrade Available (Additional): 60 minute Ride, Luxury Ride, Private Charters

Insider's Tip - The Esplanade

Experience the leisure atmosphere at the playground for locals and tourists alike at The Esplanade!

With so many activities available The Esplanade has always been a focal point for this city. This is a place that literally has everything! Take a stroll and do some bird watching on the boardwalk but as you enjoy the views don't forget to stop off at Foreshore Promenade for a bite to eat at the many available restaurants. Access to The Lagoon is easy here which is set overlooking the Barrier Reef and Trinity inlet and features all year free swimming where you can take a dip in this filtered saltwater lagoon. Let the kids can play in the sandy edges and in the shallow waters while you lounge on the semi-shaded timber decks. For the kids, don't miss our on the Trinity Bay foreshore playground "Muddy" with equipment for all ages. For the older kids, stop off at the Skate Park to see some skaters and BMXers in action! Whether you decide to take a morning jog, fly a kite or just relax in the large grassy areas for some lunch you will surely enjoy the tropical lifestyle!

If you happen to be in Cairns on a Saturday be sure to check out the Weekend Markets which feature only locally made arts and crafts, clothing and much more. While you're there listen out for the live music and fun street characters. The market gets into full swing on the promenade (just by the lagoon) every Saturday between 8am - 4pm.

Lagoon Hours:
Closed: Wednesdays til 12pm for maintenance
October to March - 6:00am - 10:00pm
April to September - 7:00am - 9:00pm

Insider's Tip - Blue Sky Brewery

Stop off at the world-class Blue Sky Brewery located in the heart of Cairns and experience beer at its freshest!

Situated on Lake Street, this bar, restaurant and brewery is brining back the craftsmanship of brewing. Blue Sky uses only the purest ingredients and water to provide full flavored, preservative free, naturally brewed Cairns beer in six premium flavours. During the day, a knowledgeable guide will talk you through the stages of brewing with a wonderful highlight at the end of sampling the selection of beers. Check out the Brewseum and learn about the regions beer brewing history. Attracting locals and visitors alike with their boutique beers, comprehensive wine cellar, diverse modern cuisine and a dynamic, yet relaxed atmosphere this stop will be a satisfying one.

Hours: 10am - 12am Sunday to Thursday, 10am - 2am Fridays and Saturdays

(Day 8) - Shuttle Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport

Travel by shuttle from your Cairns 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 8) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Sydney.

(Day 8 cont) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

(Day 8 cont) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Downtown Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 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 8 cont) - Tour the Sydney Opera House

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.

Insider's Tip - Sydney Explorer Bus

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

Insider's Tip - Opal Shopping

View the world famous black opal, the 'Aurora Australis', valued at 1 Million Dollars; with the opportunity to bring home the colors of Australia with a beautiful piece of opal jewelry.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world's precious gem opal found in exclusively in Australia. Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow and holds a spectrum of colors found in nature, fire, the ocean and more. It is these contrasts that make opals a truly fascinating and unique gemstone with no two opals appearing exactly the same. In the Middle Ages the Romans considered opal a stone that could provide great luck, as it was believed to possess all the virtues of Emeralds, Sapphires and Ruby’s.

Share this unique experience and be educated about Australian Opal at Altmann & Cherny. Established in 1948 with hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of excellence with 3 generations actively involved the families are considered leading opal experts. Please visit them at:

18 Pitt Street
Sydney, NSW
Telephone: 61 2 9251 9477

Day 9 - Optional Day Tour (not included) - Sydney Habour Bridgeclimb Adventure

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 9 - Optional Day Tour (not included) - Sydney Harbour Cruise

See the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge with spectacular views of the city and surrounds while enjoying lunch as you're cruising on one of the world's most attractive harbours.

Today enjoy the ultimate dining experience on Sydney Harbour. The cruise offers a la carte dining, million dollar views, licensed bar, first class service and quality contemporary Australian cuisine.

Day 10 - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

Day 10 - International Flight from Australia to the USA

Depart Sydney from the International Airport and fly to Los Angeles. 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.

Your flight home will give you the opportunity to reflect on your Australian Adventure. Please tell your friends if you have enjoyed the experience and direct them to "ABOUT AUSTRALIA " for information via our website at www.aboutaustralia.com

(Day 10 cont) - US Domestic Flight, Los Angeles to Hometown

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.