Tailored Itineraries

Itineraries

Central & Eastern Australia [CU216]

12 Days/10 Nights - Melbourne, Sydney, Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Great Barrier Reef

Fly direct from Los Angeles to Melbourne, a relatively modern city which is less than 200 years old, never sits still. This sophisticated world city in the south-east corner of mainland Australia inspires a deep passion in those lucky enough to live there. They love its vibrant energy, staggering choice of restaurants, funky boutiques, café-filled laneways, cool bars, unbeatable galleries, luscious parks and village-like inner suburbs, each with its own special character. Optional day tours to Phillips Island and travelling the Great Ocean Road may be selected.

Continuing on to Sydney, accommodation located in Darling Harbour awaits you. Explore this great World class city, from the Opera house to the Harbour to the Historical Rocks district. Optional day tours to the Jenolan Caves in the Blue Mountains and climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge may be selected.

On to new adventures in the Australian Outback. You will fly into Alice Springs and spend 2 days exploring the sights of the Red Centre including Kata Tjuta (Olgas), Uluru (Ayers Rock), Walpa Gorge, Mutitjulu Waterhole, Mala Walk and Alice Springs.

You continue your trip to Cairns, located in tropical North Queensland, as diverse in natural treasures as the cosmopolitan mix of cultures and peoples that call this region home. First to arrive were the Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders...followed by the Dutch navigators and eventually Capt. James Cook, who claimed the coast for Britain and paved the way for European settlement to begin. Gold rushes and foreign wars brought immigrants from around the world to enrich the north with their skills, traditions and cultures.

Features

• Accommodation - Melbourne (2 Nights), Sydney (3 Nights), Alice Springs (1 Night), Ayers Rock (1 Night), Cairns (3 Nights)
• Shuttle Tranfers - Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Alice Springs Airport to Accommodation, Ayers Rock Accommodation to Airport, Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return)
• Day Tours - Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise, Kuranda Highlights Tour
• Optional Day Tours (please select)
• Australian Domestic Flights - Melbourne to Sydney, Sydney to Alice Springs, Ayers Rock to Cairns, Cairns to Brisbane, Brisbane to Sydney
• International Air & USA Domestic Air are not included (as per your own arrangements)
• F.I.T. (Free and Independent Travel, i.e. this is not an Organized Group Tour)
• All Taxes and Fuel Levies
• Electronic Travel Authority (VISAs) are additional $15 per person

Detailed Itinerary

(Day 1) - 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 Melbourne, 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, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 2-4) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Melbourne

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

Optional Day Tour (please select)

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 (please select)

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 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Accommodation to Melbourne Airport

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

(Day 4) - Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Melbourne to Sydney.

(Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer - Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

(Days 4-7) - 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 4) - Day Tour, 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.

Optional Day Tour (please select)

Before lunch, experience an adventure of a lifetime by climbing the famous Coathanger - Sydney Harbour Bridge.

For the Climb of your life, this fully escorted activity has won World Recognition
from Tourism Authorities. The Breathtaking view from Opera House to the Mountains from the summit of the Bridge is unforgettable. Experience an adventure of a lifetime by climbing the famous Coathanger - Sydney Harbour Bridge. This 3 hour climb will take you to the top of the Bridge, 120 yards (134 meters) above sea level. Following your arrival and check-in you will be given a comprehensive briefing and demonstration of all safety equipment. You will be provided with a Bridge suit to put on (over your existing clothing), communications equipment and a Bridge harness linked to a static line throughout the climb. There are also handrails for support on all sections of the climb. Wear rubber soled shoes.

Optional Day Tour (please select)

Today enjoy a tour to the Jenolan Caves and the Blue Mountains.

Enjoy discovering the beauty of World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park (near Katoomba), taking in views over stunning eucalyptus forests and age-old rock formations and the unusual Blue Lake. Also visit the western spur and see Australia's largest and best known underground limestone caves called Jenolan Caves. Explore this extensive network of caves, tucked away inside a sleepy valley. Enjoy a fully guided tour of the Lucas, Imperial or Chifley caves and discover the deep chamber of intricate limestone formations. Learn about the folklore of the settlers and bushrangers of this region. Overnight tour available.

Operates Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

(Day 7) - Shuttle Transfer, Accommodation to Sydney Airport

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

(Day 7) - Australian Domestic Flight, Sydney to Alice Springs

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Sydney to the heart of the Outback, Alice Springs.

(Days 7-9) - 1 Night in Alice Springs & 1 Night in Ayers Rock / Uluru

Outback Australia, Northern Territory (3 days, 2 nights). Alice Springs, Uluru (Ayers Rock), The Olgas. Learn about Aboriginal culture and life in the harsh Australian Outback.

Day 1. Australian Outback. Today arrive in Australia's Outback for an overnight stay at Alice Springs in preparation for a Alice, Ayers Rock and Olgas Tour.

Day 2. Camel Farm, Uluru, Kata Tjuta (Olgas), Sunset Drinks. Depart Alice Springs 7.00 am. for Uluru (Ayers Rock). Travel through the McDonnell and James Ranges to visit Noel Fullerton's Camel Farm. Stop to view Mt. Conner before arrival at Ayers Rock Resort. Check into your hotel before leaving at 2.30 p.m. (3.00 p.m. Oct-Mar) for tour to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), 36 rocky domes dominating the western skyline of the park. Opportunity to take a walk into majestic Olga Gorge. Early evening stop at sunset strip and enjoy a glass of wine with our compliments as you watch the ever-changing colours of Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunset.

Day 3. Sunrise Viewing, Ayers Rock (Uluru), Alice Springs. Enter Uluru National Park for sunrise viewing over Ayers Rock, followed by a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. The more energetic may substitute this portion of touring to climb Ayers Rock. Learn about the geology of Uluru, the flora of the region as you continue along the Mala Walk and around the base of Uluru. Visit the Cultural Centre and the Arts and Craft Cooperative before departing Ayers Rock.

(Day 9) - Australian Domestic Flight, Ayers Rock to Cairns

Travel within Australia by domestic air from the Red Centre at Ayers Rock to Cairns.

(Day 9) - 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 9-12) - 3 Nights Accommodation in Cairns

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

Your 4 Star vacation accommodation is located on the waterfront, overlooking Trinity Bay and the extensive parklands of Cairns, Australia. Elegantly appointed rooms with private balconies offer panoramic views to the Coral Sea or to Australia's majestic rainforest clad mountains. The hotel facilities include a restaurant, wine bar, and swimming pool. Travel and experience Australia's nature and culture by visiting the Great Barrier Reef or Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. Or travel along Captain Cook Highway and visit picturesque Mossman Gorge.

(Day 10) - Day Tour -Great Barrier Reef Cruise

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

Cruise by luxury catamaran to reef activity platforms moored at the ribbon reefs on the outer edge of the Great Barrier Reef. Experience the unsurpassed coral formations, marine life and underwater visibility of the Agincourt Ribbon Reef system where you can explore this reef world. Visit Moore Reef, located on the outer reef, and swim and snorkel, or view the aquatic world from a semi-submersible or glass-bottom boat. Marvel at the spectacular beauty of the reef teeming with tropical fishes, and explore the colourful coral. Visit the marine life touch tank and underwater theatre. Enjoy a buffet lunch (included). With facilities for swimmers and non-swimmers it's sure to be fun for the whole family.

Upgrades Available at Additional Cost: Introductory & Certified Diving, Ocean Walker Helmet Dive, Adventure Snorkel Tour with Marine Biologist & Helicopter Scenic Flights.

Not Included: Fees Payable on Board: EMC AUD$5.50, Fuel Surcharge may be applicable. Subject to change, please verify before tour.

Please bring with you: towel (available from your hotel room), a change of clothes, hat, sunscreen & underwater disposable camera (optional). Camera's available from any local chemist or convenience store.

(Day 11) - Day Tour - Kuranda Rainforest & Scenic Railway Tour

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

(Day 12) - Shuttle Transfer, Accommodation to Cairns 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 12) - Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Brisbane

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Cairns to Brisbane.

(Day 12) - Australian Domestic Flight, Brisbane to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Brisbane to Sydney.

(Day 12) - International Flight, Sydney to Los Angeles

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