What to see Down Under - the wonderful land of OZ

Image via Wikipedia

Australia as a country, and indeed as a continent, has a lot to offer a tourist. The sheer diversity of the country makes it one of the best places to visit, as there will be something which suits everyone. As Australia is so large, it lies in various different climate zones, which makes it a fantastic destination weather-wise. If it is rain season in the north, the chances are that the weather will be beautiful further south. All you need to do is to decide on the time of year to visit, pick an area or town and start exploring one of the world’s greatest countries. If you are looking for adventure, history, nature and sheer experience, these 5 places are not to be missed:

1. Uluru / Ayers rock: go on an amazing road trip through to Australia’s red centre and visit the Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. This World Heritage site is a sacred place to the local Aboriginal people. Uluru, or Ayers rock as it is sometimes referred as, is the most famous of all the sights at this national park. It is a large sandstone rock formation, which appears to change colour as different light strikes during different times of the day. The Uluru is particularly beautiful at sunset and many tourists sit on their cars and watch the extraordinary transformation when day becomes night. There are plenty of small, informative walks to take and you will learn about the Aborigines and their dreamtime. Kata Tjuta, or the Olgas as they are often called, is another rock formation, 25 km west of Ularu. Not as famous but nevertheless a place to visit. The nearest town, Alice Springs 450 km north-east of Ularu, is a desert town not to be missed.

2. Tasmania: an often forgotten destination, but one of the most beautiful and serene places in the world. Take a ferry or a quick flight over to this island and prepare for a treat. Join in the fun in Port Arthur with the nightly ghost tours, go hiking around amazing Wineglass Bay or visit Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. This is a place to enjoy the nature and all that it has to offer. Head up to the north-eastern corner to watch penguins come out of the water for the night, look for platypuses or take a boat trip to the remote national parks. Perhaps you will be the one to see the Tassie devil.

3. Sydney: although not the capital of Australia, the city is the most popular destination of the country and the heart of Australia. There is plenty to do and see here and fantastic places are only a day-trip away. Stroll around the harbor and soak up the atmosphere or perhaps take a ferry cruise. If you feel adventurous, you can climb the beautiful Sydney Harbour Bridge. The famous Opera house is a major tourist attraction as is the Taronga Zoo. If the sun is shining, head out to popular Bondi Beach or take a day-trip to the Blue Mountains. In Sydney you will not be short of things to do.

4. Perth: Western Australia is very different to the rest of the country and the same can be said for Perth, as this little gem is nothing like the towns on the east coast. Perth has developed its own charm and it is very pleasant to stroll around this peaceful and laid-back main town on the west coast. Once you are in this part of the country, go down to Freemantle or take a day-trip out to Rottnest island. A little further afield, but well worth a stop-over, is famous Monkey Mia where you get up close and personal to a few dolphins. There are plenty of places where you can go whale watching, snorkeling or swimming with the manta rays. Perth makes for the ideal base and if you are planning on heading back over to the east coast, why not take the train? It is a real adventure where you go through the desert and stop over at one of the deserted towns along the way.

5. Kakadu National Park: the most talked about national park is Australia apart from Uluru, and one of the most interesting places to visit. To make the most of the park, go on a guided 3 or 4 day trip. Start by visiting the informative Bowali Visitor Centre and then stroll the Nourlangie Rock Art Site Walk. Here you will see ancient aboriginal rock paintings in its original environment. One of the things Kakadu is famous for is the alligators and crocodiles that live there, and you can go on alligator river cruises if you want to see them up close. Depending on the season, you also want to head over to see the Twin falls and the Jim Jim fall. These famous waterfalls only open after extensive crocodile searches are access depend on the level of rain during the rainy season.

Related posts:

• What to do in Ireland
• Where to go in Phuket, Thailand
• What to do in Poland
• Amazing Australia; where to go and what to see
• Top 5 destinations in Australia

Amazing Australia; where to go and what to see

Image via Wikipedia

With the newly released epic movie "Australia", the continent is most likely to attract a lot of tourists this coming year and rightfully so. It is a beautiful place, filled with interesting people and sights. It is a country which will suit everyone's interests and needs many times over. However, Australia is a vast country and it is very hard to fit the whole continent in during one holiday. You will need several months in order to at least attempt to see the most of it.

The best thing to do if you have less than a month is to decide on an area that you wish to explore. There are attractions, beautiful lakes, waterfalls, national parks and interesting islands to visit in all of the states. Some parts of Australia are more accessible and get more tourists than others. You will have to decide if you want to go off the beaten track, or follow the touristy trail along the east coast. Both of which have their charm of course; it just depends on what kind of experience you would like.

I'm fortunate enough to have spent 9 months Down Under and here are the places that I would recommend:

1. Western Australia; it is definitely off the beaten track and a lot less touristy than the East coast. This is a huge state and there are plenty to see and do. Perth is the big city of the west. It is very laid-back and friendly. You can take the train south to the lovely town of Freemantle, where there is a great market and the atmosphere is lovely. A perfect daytrip from Perth is the Rottnest Island. There you can rent a bike and cycle around the place.

Famous and popular is Monkey Mia, where you can get up close and personal with a few dolphins. Once in WA you can't miss the Ningaloo reef. It's just a short walk from the beach and less exploited than the Great Barrier Reef. Whale watching is also popular in the area and you often spot humpback whales. Up north, the town of Broome is worth a visit, especially the old outdoor cinema. Kununurra is the backdrop for the movie "Australia" and have a great rugged feel.

2. Tasmania; it is just a flight or a boat trip from Melbourne and Tasmania really is a hidden treasure. Hobart is a lovely spot to stay, and the scenery at Wineglass Bay is amazing. You will best enjoy the island best by renting a car and drive around the entire island, or by going on a 5 or 7 day tour. The National Park in the north, where the Tassie tiger is supposed to still exist, is marvellous. You are stepping on land where no one ever went before. Access is by boat only.

3. The Northern Territory; here Darwin is an excellent place to stay, very laid-back and with great weather during the summer. The Kakadu National Park is an experience. The Jim-Jim and the Twin falls are amazing. Apparently Jim-Jim is now closed due to crocodiles, but there are plenty of other places to visit in this huge park. You can go on tours where you spend a few nights in the park itself. Close by is the Litchfield and Nitmiluk parks. Both have lovely secluded places to go for a swim, or even a kayaking trip, and the waterfalls are nearly as impressive as in Kakadu. You can visit rivers where you are taken by boat out to see crocodiles and a variety of birds.

4. Sydney; the biggest city in OZ has a lot to offer with the Opera house and the area around the Quay. A trip to either the famous Bondi Beach or the Blue Mountains is a perfect way to spend the day. The Sydney Zoo is also very popular.

5. The East Coast; famous for its partying and the lovely beaches. This coast is filled to the brim with backpackers and tourists alike. There are a variety of attractions to visit, The National Parks south of Cairns, the Crocodile Hunter's famous Zoo or the Fraser islands. Cairns and Brisbane are the major towns on this side and worth a stopover.

6. Ayers Rock; in the centre of Australia lies this famous rock, called Ularu by the aborigines. Here you can stroll around and look at native paintings, learn about the aboriginal culture and see the rock change its colours as the sun sets. A visit to Alice Springs is a must when you are in the area.

Related posts:

• Top 5 destinations in Australia
• What to do in Poland
• Where to go in Phuket, Thailand
• What to do in Ireland
• Free things to do in London

Where to go in Thailand

Image by FriskoDude via Flickr

Thailand have long been a holiday destination with its sunny weather and long white beaches, and even more so in the last five years. As the country becomes increasingly popular the exploitation by both Thai and Western companies are on the raise, but Thailand still have a few hidden treasures.

As with every holiday, the place you want to visit depends on what you want to do with your time off. If you rather go sightseeing than sunbathing on a deserted island, you might enjoy the hustle and bustle of a town rather than a touristy resort.

These are some of the main destinations in Thailand:

1. Phi Phi Island; the most romantic and beautiful setting must be that of Ko Phi-Phi. Unfortunately, everyone knows it and it can feel very crowded. If you can overlook the crowds and soak in the beauty of this island, it is one of the best places to visit. The sea is lovely and blue, and all the usual water sports are available. You can walk up the mountain to get a view of the entire island and it is absolutely stunning. As it is so popular, it is vital to arrange accommodation prior to arriving, unless you expect to be there very early. It is normally booked out after the first couple if morning ferries arriving.

2. Railay; this is another treasure. The island is situated north of Ko Phi Phi and you get there easily by ferry from Phuket. The island is small and has no roads. You will have to take a long tail boat to get there and then wade in to shore, carrying your suitcase. Once you are settled in you will understand why you came. It is the most beautiful spot and very serene and tranquil. There are plenty of restaurants on the beach and places to enjoy a drink or two.

3. Ko Tarutao; if you like the idea of a deserted island or treading where no one ever trodden before, then take a trip down to Ko Tarutao National Park. You can take a speed boat from the mainland and stay on the island for a few days. There is a basic camp and one restaurant to buy your food. This is the island where they filmed one of the seasons of Survivor.

4. Ko Lipe; a bit further west of Tarutao is the island Lipe. It is not yet an established resort and therefore very low key. The bungalows have their charm and so has the little huts very you can relax and sip on a drink in the evening. There are a few bigger restaurants but apart from that, it's darkness once the sun has set. Often the restaurants will put out tables and chairs on the beach to create an even more beautiful setting. The beach is lovely and you can rent one of the long-tailed boats to go around to the other side of the island. There is a path leading from one side to another and it's nice to take the trip just before sunset.

5. Phuket; the main destination for many of the charter tourists. As Phuket is a big semi-island there are various resorts and places to choose from. The most famous one is Patong, but the smaller beaches such as Kata, Surin or Kamala is a better option if you want to relax and keep it more low key. You can then jump on one of the tuk-tuks and go in to Patong at night and so some shopping.

6. Ko Lanta; this is another island that has become popular lately. The beaches and the sea is not as nice as on the other islands so if you really want to just sunbath, you should perhaps choose another island. However, there are things to enjoy on Lanta too. The elephant trekking trip in the National Park at the southern end of the island is interesting and well worth the trip. The Thai people often drive fast and erratically, but on this island there were broad roads and less traffic than elsewhere. I would therefore recommend this island as a good one for renting a car or a scooter.

7. Bangkok; the capital of Thailand and your starting point if you arrive on a scheduled flight. It is a very polluted city and many tourists do not stop here for too long. If you do decide to stay for a couple of days, visit the Palace, Wat Poh and take a trip on the river.

Related posts:

• Top 5 destinations in Australia.
• What to see in Ireland.
• Where to go in Phuket, Thailand.

5 amazing countries to visit

Most of us have favourite places which we return to frequently, or places that we dream of going to. What make a town, country or even a continent special to me, might be exactly what you hate about that place. It is very individual and it is a perfect subject to start a debate here on the blogg. Below I will start off by listing my top 5 countries and explain why they made it to my list. I will of course love comments on the matter and perhaps get your input as to what countries should be in the top five.

1. Sweden - it has to be up there as it is my home country and in all honesty, isn't too bad of a place to be living in. Naturally, the weather could be a bit milder, the winters a lot less dark but on the whole, it is an easy life, that feels rather secure. There are plenty of things to see and do, many of which I'm sure I will be mentioning in other posts. The people are friendly and it isn't at all as expensive as you think it is.

2. New Zealand - the land of the Hobbits, the Maoris and the amazing nature. If ever there was a heaven on earth, I would like to think it is here. Whether you go glacier walking, canoeing or sailing the Marlborough Sound, you will love this place.

3. Thailand - a favourite beach retreat when the European weather just doesn't do it for you. Miles of miles of sandy beaches, cocktails, Thai food and friendly people is all you require. If you feel a bit adventurous, there is always the potential to go trekking and sightseeing up north. The list of sports that you can enjoy is endless and it doesn't cost you an arm and a leg to try it either.

4. Australia - what a country and what a continent. You will find most of what you need down under. The people of OZ are friendly and good natured, the climate variable depending on where you are and there is always an adventure around the corner. This is a place to go sightseeing, do trekking and canoeing or why not try the outback for a while.

5. Ireland - as I currently reside here, I could not leave it off this list. I came here because I was fascinated by the history, the scenery and the people. Although it has changed a lot in recent years, there is a beauty here that is hard to forget. The weather makes it hard to see through the grey, cloudy curtain that hangs over the islands more often than not, but if you do, you will be surprised at it's beauty and tranquility.

Related posts:

• Where to go in Thailand.
• What to do in Poland.
• What to see in Ireland.
• Top 5 destinations in Australia.
• Top 5 capitals in Europe.

What to do in Poland

Image by smif via Flickr

There are many places to visit in Poland, more so than I first thought when I went there. When people speak of Poland they usually mention Auschwitz or Warsaw as potential sites of interest but there are many places other than these. I have travelled around Europe many times and Poland definitely holds its own. There are beautiful towns, interesting monuments and churches, heritage sites and evidence of the Nazis presence during the Second World War.

These are a few places that I believe are worth a visit:

1. Krakow; a beautiful town with a gorgeous town square. It's a fabulous place to sit down for a meal or a drink. The houses are old fashioned but very well-maintained and beautiful. Krakow is a nice place to make your base for exploring the area. There are lots of places to visit nearby and Krakow itself is a nice place to walk around.

2. Auschwitz; the most well-known of all the Nazi's death camps and well worth a visit for history reasons. The place was left by the Nazis in a hurry so everything is as it was in 1945. The ovens, barracks and photos tell the horrific story of a mass murder of millions.

3. Wieliczka Salt Mine; in Eastern Poland lies this heritage salt mine. It's a fascinating guided tour in the mines where the workers have carved out incredible statues out of the stone. It's the best cave I have ever visited and not like anything you have ever seen before. It's a must if you are around.

4. Wroclaw; one of the nicer towns with a nice castle. That makes for a perfect day out. There are a few older buildings and churches that are worth a look.

5. Wolfschanze, Hitler's Base during World War II; in the Masurian Lake district up in Northern Poland lays Hitler's bunker. It's based in a large forest and you can walk around on your own. It's a place that not many have heard of but that is well worth the visit.

6. Slowinski National Park with the sand dunes, near Leba; this is the Sahara of Poland. You can walk around the sand dunes for hours before you realize it. There is a small museum with aero planes just before you start the journey out to the dunes, a hidden treasure.

7. Warzawa; the capital of Poland is bound to be one of the top destinations for many tourists. I didn't particularly feel it worth the visit. The city is largely rebuilt after the war and high, modern buildings are dominating. There isn't much history there and not too many places to linger. There is a fabulous market just in the outskirts and you can make a good few bargains there.

8. Czestochowa; the religious place to visit in Poland. It's a major Pilgrimage haul and there are long quest to see the museum and the famous tower. Several sightings have been noticed here and for Catholics this is a must.

Related posts:

• What to see in Ireland
• What to do in London
• Where to go in Phuket, Thailand

What to do in Ireland

Image via Wikipedia

The Emerald Island is a fabulous place to visit and I have driven most routes of this green island and enjoyed every trip. Eire is known for many things, its genuine hospitality, the lush green fields and the traditional music, as well as Guinness and the non-stop raining, much of which is true although some of it is more of a myth and a legend.

There are a few places every tourist wants to go to and have to see, and then there are a few less touristy spots for the traveler who wants to drive on gravel roads in the middle of nowhere and get a feel for the true, rural Ireland.

1. Newgrange; this Neolithic tomb and the tombs around Newgrange are fascinating places to visit just north of Dublin. The entrance fees include guided tours to the tombs and the enthusiasm and expertise of the tour guides is first-class.

2. Cliffs of Moher; these beautiful cliffs in County Clare cannot be missed. They have recently built a new visitors centre and the security along the cliffs are much improved. All this can't take away from the stunning scenery though. On a good day you can see as far as the Aran Islands.

3. Killarney and the Ring of Kerry; I have grouped these together as you would visit these during the same trip. Killarney is a beautiful town set among the Kerry Mountains. It's close to the National Park and you can stroll to the Ross Castle or go to the Muckross House and Abbey. The Ring of Kerry is a beautiful scenic route which takes you along the peninsula.

4. The Burren; an area in Clare where you have limestone everywhere. Make sure to visit the Burren centre in Kilfenora and the Ailwee caves. The Poulnabrone Dolmen is a much photographed ancient monument and a stop here is a must.

5. Connemara National Park; rugged and dark is this part of County Galway. You can drive through the bogs or make your way along the more scenic routes. The sea town of Clifden is a lovely spot to visit with good accommodation.

6. The Aran Islands; Ireland at its most rural. You see stone houses after stone houses. Aran sweaters and other clothes as well as a variety of arts and crafts are for sale. You can rent a bike or go on one of the tours.

7. Donegal; a county less frequented by tourists, but one of Ireland's most scenic and beautiful spots. The recent economic boom has not left as much mark here as in other parts of the country so you will feel like you have traveled back in time.

8. New Ross; this little town in county Wexford has one of the best museums in Ireland. Namely the emigrant ship Dunbrody that once took Irish passengers over to America. This place is well worth a visit even if it's only to see the ship.

I often find that there are hidden treasures along the way. There are plenty of castles and abbeys hidden away along the smaller roads. Along the coast there are plenty of nice beaches to visit. Find an area you like to visit and then let the area dictate where to take you.

Related posts:

• What to see in Ireland
• Where to go in Phuket, Thailand
• What to do in London

Top 5 destinations in Australia

Image via Wikipedia

I am continuing my top 5 lists and the subject of tonight is the wonderful land of OZ. Australia is a vast and beautiful continent and you need time and money to see most of it. I have been fortunate enough to spend 10 months Down Under and here are my highlights and places I would recommend;

1. Tasmania - this gorgeous place just south of Melbourne is like a country of its own. Take the ferry or jump on a plane to get there and then enjoy the beauty and the remoteness of this island. Take a tour around the area and see the sights. Don't forget to visit the famous and amazing Wineglass Bay, the remote parts up north where you can walk where no one has trodden before and a ghost tour in Port Arthur.

2. Western Australia -it is such a vast area that you could write a blog on WA just on its own. From Broome in the north to Perth down south, there is many places to explore and enjoy. Visit the dolphins at Monkey Mia, take a boat trip to see the humpback whales or snorkel at the Ningaloo reef. Western Australia will show you the true OZ; the remoteness and wilderness and the true spirit of the Aussies.

3. Kakadu National Park - no visit to Australia is complete before you have taken a tour to this National Park. To sleep under the stars in the rain forest, visit the spiders blocking your way to the toilets and swim in the billabongs and waterfalls. Beware of the crocodiles though and listen to the guides advise.

4. Ularu - more commonly known as Ayers Rock. This big rock is something else and to sit and see it changing its colours at sunrise or sunset is impressive. There are plenty of walks in this national park and information about the Aboriginal culture. A visit to the town of Alice Springs is also recommended.

5. Sydney - although not the capital of Australia, the largest city Down Under is a relaxed and friendly place. Go to the Blue Mountains, Bondi Beach or stroll around the harbour. You will not regret stopping over here.

Related posts:

• Top 5 capitals in Europe
• Top 10 cities or towns to visit in Europe
• 5 amazing countries to visit.
• Free things to do in London.
• Free things to do in Paris.

What to see in Ireland

Image via Wikipedia

Many people have this romantic notion of the Emerald Island and sometimes I totally get that but other times I really don't. Today is one of those days when I have trouble understanding what I am doing here. You see, it has been raining non-stop the whole summer. Well, at least it feels like that after having had only a few days of pure sunshine. Looking out my window all I see is rain, rain, rain. What better way then to remind myself, and you ,about what makes Eire a special place.

1. The Cliffs of Moher - these huge rocks by the Atlantic are not just majestic to look at, but they make a great place to go and just contemplate life. They are immensely popular so beware of the crowds but do jump over the fence if you feel like it and stroll away on your own. It is windy up there so be careful and don't do anything stupid, but it is well worth the walk.

2. The Ring of Kerry - another one of those tourist traps so do go there in low season. It is a circular drive around one of the most beautiful peninsulas you will find here. Life moves in a slower pace in Kerry, it reminds you of a time long ago. Not in a negative way mind you, but in a really really nice, soothing way.

3. The Aran Islands - take the ferry from Galway out to these rugged islands. This is the real, hard Irish life that we have seen so many times in various films. Not many people live out on these islands and the sheer desolation out there is exactly what makes them so special.

4. Achill Island - no need to take a boat out here as this island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It is a popular holiday destination with plenty of white, sandy beaches and holiday homes. It makes for a nice, relaxing weekend.

5. Galway - my favourite town in Ireland. There are a joi de vivre here that you don't find elsewhere. Perhaps it has to do with the young, hip crowd that lives here or the fact that their main street is oh so colourful. Have lunch in one of the pubs where you can enjoy live music and sit back and relax.

Related posts:

• Top 5 destinations in Australia.
• Where to go in Thailand.
• 5 amazing countries to visit.
• What to do in Poland.
• What to do in Ireland.