10 Days: Summernats Car Festival [ST-7176]
Starting at
$4,595
Highlights & Inclusions
  • Accommodation - Melbourne (2 Nights), Canberra (4), Sydney (2)
  • USA Domestic Air is not included in pricing. Please enquire for flight pricing to be included.
  • International Flights - Los Angeles to Melbourne, Sydney to Los Angeles
  • Australian Domestic Flights - Melbourne to Canberra, Canberra to Sydney
  • Shuttle Transfers - Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
  • Day Tours Included - Melbourne: City Sights, Phillip Island and Wildlife Park; Sydney: Opera House, Harbour Cruise
  • All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
  • Visa Issuance for entry into Australia (additional 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.
  • Tickets for the Summernats Car Festival are not included in the vacation package.
Itinerary Details
28th Dec 2014 (Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Melbourne

Shortly after departing Los Angeles you will be served dinner and you will be given breakfast before landing in Melbourne.

Relax, watch some movies, and try to get some sleep!

Please confirm with the airline at check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record (if applicable).

30th Dec (Day 2) - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation

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

30th Dec - 1st Jan (Days 2 to 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 the city’s most central hotel and offers 324 spacious guest rooms with wireless internet access. Situated above the Australia on Collins shopping centre, it provides easy access to the Regent Theatre, Federation Square, the National Gallery and Telstra Dome. The hotel features a bar, restaurant, 7 meeting rooms, fully equipped fitness centre and heated indoor swimming pool, spa and sauna. Melbourne is the perfect launching pad for travel day tours to such places like Phillip Island and Penguins, the Great Ocean Road, or the Yarra Wineries. Make the most of your vacation by mingling with the people of Australia.

31st Dec (Day 3) - Day Tour, Melbourne City Tour - ½ Day morning

Discover the beauty of Melbourne on this morning coach tour.

The city of Melbourne is a wonderful blend of heritage architecture, modern skyscrapers and contemporary designs. Vibrant cafes and cosmopolitan restaurants, colorful parklands and beautiful waterways are all found throughout this charming city. Discover its appeal for yourself and explore the cosmopolitan city with wide boulevards and fine historic buildings. View Bourke Street Mall and the tree-lined beauty of Collins Street, the ultimate shopping strip and business center. View fine examples of Melbourne’s architectural splendor, including St. Paul’s Cathedral, and Princess and Regent Theatres. Also see Melbourne Town Hall, the Royal Exhibition Buildings and Federation Square.

Stroll around Melbourne’s spectacular Royal Botanic Gardens. Visit the picturesque Fitzroy Gardens and explore Captain Cooks Cottage (optional, additional expense). See the bustling Queen Victoria Market and tranquil Albert Park Lake. See the city’s world renowned sporting arenas, including the MCG and Rod Laver Arena (home of the Australian Tennis Open). Pay tribute to the soldiers of war at the historic Shrine of Remembrance.

View Southbank, a world of waterfront shopping, dining and arts incorporating the Southgate Arts and Leisure Precinct and Crown Entertainment Complex (casino). Cross the West Gate Bridge for amazing views of the city skyline as well as the scenic bay side suburbs, St. Kilda and Albert Park.

Operates
Daily, except December 25 & January 1. Tour departs at 8:00am and returns at 11:50am, lasting approximately 3.5 – 4 hours.

Need to Know
Tour departs and returns at Federation Square. Wear warm layers during cooler months.

Inclusions
– Experienced driver guide
– Comprehensive commentary
– Travel in an air-conditioned coach

1st Jan (Day 4) - Shuttle Transfer, Melbourne Accommodation to Airport

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

1st Jan (Day 4) - Australian Domestic Flight, Melbourne to Canberra

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Melbourne to Canberra

1st Jan (Day 4) - Taxi from Canberra Airport to Hotel (pay as go)

Travel by taxi or ride share from the airport to your vacation accommodation (as per your own arrangements, pay as you go). Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah
-GoCatch
-Bolt

Make your way from the Airport Baggage Claim area to the Taxi Stand. Taxi’s are available on demand. Pay as you go.

1st - 5th Jan (Days 4 to 8) - 4 Nights Accommodation in Canberra

Enjoy 4 nights in Canberra, Australia Capital Territory. Make sure to visit Parliament House, War Museum, National Art Gallery and Library, Royal Australian Mint, Aquarium and Wildlife Sanctuary.

Australia’s Capital City has many things to see and do: spectacular views from Telstra Tower atop of the Black Mountain. Parliament House on Capital Hill and the controversial sizable four-legged flag mast. National Gallery of Australia south of Lake Burley Griffin. National Science & Technology Centre (Questacon) a “hands on” science museum. National Library of Australia (more than 5 million books plus paintings, early manuscripts, photographs, oral histories and maps) and is one of the most elegant buildings in Canberra. Royal Australian Mint where Australia’s coins are produced. Australian War Memorial – a massive exhibition detailing the horrors of war and acts of bravery. Sound Screen Australia – The former National Film and Sound Archive. National Botanical Gardens. Australian Institute of Sport. National Aquarium & Wildlife Sanctuary. National Museum of Australia. Bushwalking (Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve). Watersports. Cycling. More detailed information on activities and tours is available at the Canberra Visitors Centre, 330 Northbourne Ave (about 2km north of Vernon Circle).

1st Jan - 4th Jan (Days 4 to 7) - Summernats Car Festival (tickets not included) - Own Arrangements

Event Dates: January 1 – January 4, 2015

Experience four incredible days at the Summernats Car Festival with national and international car enthusiasts! Explore your way around the festival while gazing at incredible hot rods, sport compacts and many other types of vehicles. Watch burnouts and driving competitions, view live bands, see fireworks, and much more!

Every year, up to 1,500 elite street machines rally at Exhibition Park in Canberra. The owners of these marvelous street machines come from all around the globe to show off their finest street machines to a crowd of more than 85,000 car enthusiasts! This four day festival has transformed into an iconic Australian event during the month of January. This is more than a car exhibition. This festival encapsulates high-octane, auto action and gives you a taste of pure adrenaline as you enjoy in the many activities taking place.

The Summernats Car Festival takes place January 1st – 4th, 2015.

Hours of Operation and Schedule of Events

Shannon’s City Cruise
Opening Night Cruising
Last Chance Wild Card Burnouts
Thursday Night Burnout Cruise
Summernats Drive in Movies

Friday, Jan. 2, 2015: 8:30am – 12:00am (midnight)

Entrant Cruising
Kids Club
Liqui-Moly Go Whoa Eliminations
Airbrush Art Exhibition
Shannon’s Show and Shine
Nolathane Tuff St Display
Rare Spare Elite Top 60 Cars in the Meguiars Judging Pavilion
Liqui-Moly Summernats Burnout Championships Eliminations
Horsepower Heroes
Meguiars Great Uncover
Fryday Night Burnout Cruise
Friday Night Concert

Saturday, Jan. 3, 2015: 8:30am – 1:00am

Entrant Cruising
Liqui-Moly Summernats Burnout Championships Eliminations
Liqui-Moly National Burnout Masters Eliminations
Airbrush Art Exhibition
Rare Spare Elite Top 60 Cars in the Meguiars Judging Pavilion
Shannons Show and Shine
Kids Club
Tattoo Competition
Federal Tyres Miss Summernats Competition
Horsepower Heroes
Vibrance Supercruise
Saturday Night Fireworks Spectacular
Saturday Night Concert

Sunday, Jan. 4, 2015: 8:30am – 5:00pm

Entrant Cruising
Liqui-Moly Go Whoa Finals
Classic and Vintage Car Show and Shine
Summernats Grand Parade
Liqui-Moly Summernats Burnout Championships Final
Liqui-Moly National Burnout Masters Top Ten Shootout
Car Audio Soundoff
Street Machine Summernats Grand Champion Presentation

Tickets are available for purchase online at: https://www.summernats.com.au/pages/?ParentPageID=75&PageID=76

Photo credit: VisitCanberra

Insider's Tip - Australian War Memorial

The Australian War Memorial is a must see for everyone, despite the sobering subject matter.

The exhibitions are well assembled, placing the emphasis on personal stories, memorabilia and education. The Hall of Memory and the Pool of Reflection offer time to commemorate the efforts of countless Australians lost in war. The facilities offer an extensive research centre and award winning exhibitions. The Memorial is a commanding fortress for history, and a constant reminder of the effects of war. Admission: Free.

Photo Credit: ACT Tourism

Insider's Tip - Museum of Australia

Bringing together the richly diverse stories of Australia’s land, nation and people, the National Museum has developed an international reputation for innovative exhibitions.

It profiles 50,000 years of indigenous heritage, settlement since 1788 and key events including Federation and the 2000 Sydney Olympics.The collection has everything from a carcass of the extinct Tasmanian Tiger to Australia’s largest collection of bark paintings, Phar Lap’s heart and the No.1 Holden Prototype car.
Admission is Free.

Photo Credit: ACT Tourism

Insider's Tip - National Zoo & Wildlife

Canberra’s National Zoo & Aquarium offers visitors the opportunity to meet the most unique animals in the world.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is one of Canberra’s most centrally located attractions and is no further than 15 minutes from anywhere in Canberra. Talks by zookeepers at the National Zoo & Aquarium are a regular occurance, providing visitors with interesting, educational and entertaining insights into the lives of both keepers and animals.

Photo Credit: ACT Tourism

5th Jan (Day 8) - Taxi from Canberra Hotel to Airport (pay as you go)

Travel by taxi or ride share from your vacation accommodation to the airport (as per your own arrangements, pay as you go). Uber is available in most major cities.
Other Australian ride share options are:
-Ola
-DiDi
-Shebah
-GoCatch
-Bolt

5th Jan (Day 8) - Domestic Flight, Canberra to Sydney

Travel within Australia by domestic air from Canberra to Sydney.

5th Jan (Day 8) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Airport to Accommodation

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

Travel via shuttle to your vacation accommodation in Sydney, Australia.

5th - 7th Jan (Days 8 to 10) - 2 Nights Accommodation in Sydney

Travel to your accommodation in Sydney, Australia, where you will be staying whilst on vacation for 2 nights in your studio room apartment.

Just 30 minutes from Sydney Airport, your accommodation is conveniently located between Darling Harbour and the Sydney CBD.

The friendly staff at your accommodation can attend to your every need with 24 hour guest reception. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast at their signature restaurant.

Relax in a stylish and comfortable haven whilst being in close proximity to shopping at Westfield’s Pitt St Mall and Darling Harbour. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Pitt St towards Circular Quay to take in more of Sydney’s world famous sites- like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

6th Jan (Day 9) - Day Tour, Sydney Opera House Tour (1 Hour)

On your vacation, participate in an inspiring tour of the Sydney Opera House.

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 Theater 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.

Operates
Daily, Hourly 9am to 5pm
Does not operate Good Friday, Christmas, New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day 2024

Includes
One hour guided experience.

Need to Know
This tour has 300+ stairs – Low Impact. It is strongly encouraged that you leave bags at your hotel and avoid bringing any large items to the Opera House (anything larger than an 8×10″ sheet of paper). No luggage or large bags accepted. Videoing is not allowed. There are plenty of photo opportunities — your tour guide will advise you if photos are not to be taken at any point.

Upgrades
-Add a lunch, dinner or performance to your tour.
-Upgrade your experience with a private, backstage, or architectural tour.

6th Jan (Day 9) - Day Tour, Sydney Harbour Cruise

On your vacation explore Darling Harbour in Sydney, Australia.

Hop On and Hop Off at up to seven famous harbour attractions with this unlimited full day pass, or simply take the 1 1/2 hour round trip cruise and see all the main harbour sights with commentary.

The Harbour Express stops at the following tourist attractions:

Fort Denison: The historic island and cafe in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

Taronga Zoo: Discover Australia’s amazing wildlife including koalas, platypus and kangaroos.
Shark Island: This island national park is the perfect destination for a BYO picnic lunch, complete with a small beach area for swimming.

Watson’s Bay: Home of Doyle’s famous seafood restaurant and only a short walk to beautiful harbour swimming beaches, HMAS Watson and headland parks.

Luna Park: Sydney’s famous fun park with rides and games, or walk across the Harbour Bridge from Milsons Point station.

Darling Harbour: Aquarium & Wildlife World, Australian Maritime Museum, shops, restaurants and only a short stroll or Monorail to Sydney Tower, Star City Casino, Powerhouse Museum and China Town.

Circular Quay: The Rocks historic precinct, weekend markets, Opera House, Royal Botanic Gardens and Harbour Bridge pylon. (Additional Fees apply for Park Entry to Fort Denison, Shark Island & Taronga Zoo).

Insider's Tip: Australian Opals

Altmann & Cherny is a family owned jewellery business in Sydney with an international reputation for excellence in opals and is one of the World’s foremost Australian Opal authorities.

Australia is known as the country of origin for this splendid stone with 95% of the world’s precious gem opal found exclusively in Australia. The Australian opal displays all the colors of the rainbow; holding a spectrum of colors found in nature. 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 Rubies.

Established in 1948 in hopes of sharing this unique gemstone with the world, they have built a reputation of providing the highest level of quality, service and value for three generations. Their mantra has always been and will continue to be – “Excellence in service, quality and value.” So come share in this unique experience to learn more about Australian Opals at Altmann & Cherny!

Altman + Cherny
18 Pitt St., Sydney, NSW 2000 / Ph: 61 (02) 9251 9477

Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:30am – 5:30pm / Saturday & Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm

Insider's Tip: The Rocks

Located on the Harbour just a stroll away from the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge is the place where Sydney itself began, The Rocks!



Amidst the hustle and bustle of the Business District, this unique village features a centre with more than 70 shops, boutiques and galleries with everything from hand-made puppets, vintage clothing and accessories, antiques, art supplies, jewelry and some of Australia’s finest arts and crafts.




If hunger takes over there are a myriad of places to eat, from some of the finest restaurants to quaint cafes and casual eateries with many offering stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. If quenching a thirst is what you’re after don’t forget to stop off at one of the 13 Heritage pubs serving local wines and beers!

On Saturdays and Sundays, be sure to check out the market held at the northern end of George Street. Perfect for gifts and souvenir shopping, it has more than 150 stalls selling quality crafts, home wares, jewelry and Australian-designed goods, all under a unique sail-like canopy.

With the transport to The Rocks serviced by the Explorer and just a five minute walk from the Circle Quay it is easy to get here. The Sydney Visitors Centre on the corner of Argyle & Playfair Streets at The Rocks: open 9.30am – 5.30pm every day of the year (except Christmas Day and Good Friday). Opening hours may vary on some public holidays.

Photo Credit: Tourism New South Wales

7th Jan (Day 10) - Shuttle Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport

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

7th Jan (Day 10) - 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.

* Terms and Conditions

All prices are in US dollars and correct as of September 26, 2014. Taxes and Fuel levy included. Visa required additional $15 per person. Pricing is from “per person” based on Double Occupancy (2 Adults) in hotels. Single Supplements apply. Upgrades available on request (upgrade supplements apply). Subject to availability. Blackout dates may apply. Seasonal supplements will apply. No refunds allowed. Changes are permitted (fees may apply). Other restrictions may apply. Not combinable with any other offer or discounted vacation package. About Australia reserves the right to adjust the amount of any outstanding balances at any time according to USA Exchange Rate variations. Prices may vary when you book your travel package and are not guaranteed until payment in full is received. Airlines, hotels and tour operators frequently change their prices as a result of rate increases, fuel surcharges, government imposed taxes or fees. Prices may increase prior to full payment for those and/or other reasons. All prices, itineraries and routings are subject to change. After full payment, prices are guaranteed except only due to an increase in government imposed taxes or fees. By paying your deposit, you understand and agree to the possibility of such increases. Contact About Australia directly to get a firm quote based on current prices for your travel dates.

Tickets for the Summernats Car Festival are not included in the vacation package. You can purchase tickets at – http://www.summernats.com.au/membersarea/orders/choose_event.aspx

Book By: December 4, 2014

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  • a) All prices are USD$/person (including all Taxes). Subject to availability and seasonality. Other Conditions Apply (see Terms and Conditions).
  • b) Land Content Only represents the pricing for the full itinerary as detailed, except the International Flights from the USA (and return) are NOT included.
  • c) An Infant (Lapchild) must be less than 2 years old on the date of departure. Infant must travel with at least one adult. An infant with a seat pays the price of a Child.
  • d) A Child must be aged between 2-11 years on the date of departure. Child must travel with at least one adult.