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Australia

People

The earliest settlers of Australia were the Aborigines who came from Southeast Asia more than 50,000 years ago. The Aborigines believe in Dreamtime, also called the Dreaming, which is characterized by an eternal spiritual cycle that runs parallel to the daily cycle of activities and is often more real than reality.

Today, the Aborigines live in harmonious co-existence with the descendants of the British immigrants and immigrants from 200 other countries. This wonderful hodgepodge has made Australians friendly and helpful toward neighbors and strangers alike, tolerant of diverse cultures and peoples, and adventurous in their souls with laidback attitudes.

The Australian geography continues to encourage more of its people to enjoy the wonders of the legendary Outback. Thus, be prepared for the sight of backpackers loaded with camping gear alongside men in suits with briefcases and locals in casual clothes.

Geography

Australia holds many world records. It is the smallest, flattest, and driest inhabited continent with the oldest soils in the world, not to mention the least fertile. Despite these limitations, however, Australia boasts of a megadiverse ecosystem because of the great diversity in geography and climate. Albeit, it possesses one of the world's most unique ecosystems in that the majority of its flora and fauna are endemic to the country.

Australia boasts the Great Barrier Reef and Mount Augustus, the world's largest coral reef and monolith, respectively. It also hosts 16 World Heritage Sites, some of which are home to koalas, kangaroos, wombats, platypuses, emus and kookaburras.

History

As befits its unique geography, Australia has a history all unto itself. During the last Ice Age, the Aboriginees came from Southeast Asia and brought with them their complex oral culture, belief in Dreamtime and reverence for nature. They were hunter-gatherers who subsisted on the land's bounty.

In 1770, the claim of Captain James Cook on the land and the establishment of the continent as Britain's penal colony signaled the beginning modern Australian history. It was characterized by birthing pains including the displacement of Aborigines from their homelands, the gold rush and the Eureka Rebellion, participation in World War I and the Statute of Westminster that gave Australia its independence from the United Kingdom.

Famous Attraction

Due to its ancient land and modern history, Australia offers the best of both worlds when it comes to its famous attractions. First, its natural attractions include the Great Barrier Reef and Ningaloo Reef, Ayers Rock, Katherine Gorge, Arnherm Land, Gold Coast, Frasier Island, Monkey Mia and Bungle Bungles, to name few.

Second, its man-made structures like the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, Coober Pedy, Australian Parliament House, the National Museum of Australia and the National Gallery of Australia as well as the Australian Memorial War Memorial are popular tourist attractions.

For the wine connoisseurs, the Hunter Valley and the Barossa Valley are the rural places to be. Or if you want a taste of urban cosmopolitan Australian flair, then Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra are must-see cities.





Articles in Australia

Brisbane, Australia - Brisbane Marriott Hotel

Every guest arriving at the Marriott Brisbane will be greeted by the sight of the hotel's stylish architecture and cheerful driveway attendants and concierge. It is an elegant high-rise hotel by the bank of the Brisbane River giving the guest a stunning view of the Brisbane skyline. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, decorated to create a warm and homey feeling. Get a peaceful relaxing sleep on their beds with the famous "revive" luxury bedding package, definitely a standout among all the amenities. To complete a relaxing stay at Marriott Brisbane, experience a luxurious massage at the Dome Retreat Spa. <br/> Home to 1.9 million residents, the city of Brisbane is the third largest city in Australia in terms of population. At the heart of Queensland's capital city is the central business district with high-rise buildings that house Australian and international corporations as well as government offices. To balance the energetic economic activity are the local attractions that would give you a glimpse of Brisbane's history. After a long day of going around the city or a long and arduous business meeting, Marriott Brisbane is truly a wonderful treat to end the day. <br/> Marriott Brisbane has a prime location on the riverbank, halfway between Fortitude Valley and the City. It is a short walk to the city center and shopping area. Guests can stroll by the riverside and enjoy the view as they make their way to restaurants and bars at the Eagle Point Pier. The "City Cats" riverboats would be a great and inexpensive way to go around the riverwalk. <br/> Staying at the Marriott Brisbane is a wonderful experience that deserves to be relived on your next trip to Brisbane. The rooms are fresh and clean, the staff is friendly and very accommodating. Everything about this hotel is truly excellent <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on <a href='http://www.asia.com/hotel'>Asia.com hotels</a> search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <a href='http://www.asia.com/'>Asia.com</a> is neither affiliated with nor sponsored by Brisbane Marriott Hotel. This article is provided for informational purposes only.

Hilton Brisbane,Brisbane, Australia

The 25-storey Hilton Brisbane is a towering structure located right at the heart of Brisbane's financial district, nine miles away from the Brisbane International Airport. The hotel's interior design speaks of luxury with its 272-foot ceiling in the atrium. It has 321 elegant deluxe and executive rooms with a wide range of amenities for the comfort and convenience of the guests. Each guest room in The Hilton Brisbane is equipped with high-speed Internet access, PlayStations, satellite television, ergonomically designed desks, and air-conditioning. Enjoy the delectable seafood buffet at the Atrium Restaurant or sample wines and cocktails at the Below 7 Bar. An ideal rendezvous for business people, it has an Executive Lounge, a 24-hour on-site business center, and 14 meeting rooms with a seating capacity of up to 2000. <br/> The city of Brisbane has a population of 1.9 million making it one of the largest cities in Australia, third to Melbourne and Sydney. Since it is the portal to the state, this hilly capital of Queensland is the center of the "Smart State" strategy, which is an initiative of the state government to increase prosperity and improve the way of life of every Queenslander. The main tourist destination is Brisbane's central business district. Commonly known as the City, it has a vibrant shopping and nightlife, a rich cultural heritage, and a prosperous business community. <br/> The Hilton Brisbane is primarily located right across the Queen Street Mall, 440 yards from Central Station and walking distance from the Convention and Exhibition Center. Other Brisbane attractions to visit after a meeting or simply for sightseeing are the City Botanical Gardens and the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. <br/> From the prompt and efficient service of the hotel staff to the amenities that ensures comfort and convenience, every guest staying in the hotel will find his experience unforgettable. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on <a href='http://www.asia.com/hotel'>Asia.com hotels</a> search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <a href='http://www.asia.com/'>Asia.com</a> is neither affiliated with nor sponsored by The Hilton Brisbane. This article is provided for informational purposes only.

Brisbane, Australia - Rydges South Bank Brisbane

Strategically located at the cultural, entertainment, and recreation hub of Brisbane, Rydges South Bank Hotel is the destination hotel for art enthusiasts and families on vacation. It is one of the hotels by the riverbank, enjoying a view of the Brisbane skyline. Each of the 304 guest rooms has air conditioning, cable television with-pay-per-view available, en-suite bathroom, refrigerator, and high-speed Internet access. Families with children and business executives may opt to book one of Rydges South Bank Hotel's 64 one-bedroom suites. There is one available in every floor. Aside from the famed Brisbane skyline, guests staying here enjoy a view of Mount Coot-ha. It also includes a kitchenette for those who wish to cook. <br/> The city of Brisbane is a gateway to the state of Queensland. The "Smart State" campaign made it not only a center for business but also for technological and scientific development. The community of arts and culture is also thriving, giving the guests a variety of things to do. Tourists have the option of booking guided tours or they could try exploring the city on their own. <br/> South Bank is one of the destinations in Brisbane. Annually, 9 million tourists visit this part of the capital city. The City Botanic Gardens is one of the top tourism spots. Not far from the Rydges South Bank Hotel are the Queensland Performing Arts Center and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Center. South Bank Art and Crafts Market is also a must-see when visiting Brisbane. The schedule for the market's operating hours may be requested from the hotel concierge. <br/> When exploring South Bank, Rydges South Bank Hotel would be a good hotel choice. Guests have the option of including breakfast or a platter of cheese or wine to be served upon checking in. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on <a href='http://www.asia.com/hotel'>Asia.com hotels</a> search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <a href='http://www.asia.com/'>Asia.com</a> is neither affiliated with nor sponsored by Rydges South Bank . This article is provided for informational purposes only.

Melbourne - Hotel Grand Chancellor

Located on Lonsdale Street, Hotel Grand Chancellor lies at the very heart of Melbourne's central business district. This 4-star boutique hotel is very popular among travelers because of its accessibility. It is only 20 km away from Tullamarine International Airport and is within walking distance from many of Melbourne's sought-after sights. Hotel Grand Chancellor provides comfort and class to its many customers with deluxe accommodations, hotel facilities, and services. The hotel boasts of a rooftop-heated swimming pool and features a fitness center, business center, and restaurant and bar. Each of its 160 air-conditioned rooms is outfitted with high-speed Internet access. <br/> The city of Melbourne is one of the most culturally sophisticated cities of Australia. With a population of approximately 3.9 million, it is the country's second most populous city, next only to Sydney. Melbourne has carved a name for itself apart from the country's capital with its rich history and culturally diverse society. It is also home to some of the country's most significant cultural and sporting institutions. <br/> Hotel Grand Chancellor is only a stone's throw away from Melbourne's vibrant theater district, as well as Chinatown, restaurants, and exceptional shopping stores. Historical landmarks that are situated close to the hotel are the Parliament House Victoria and Federation Square. <br/> Since 2002, the city of Melbourne has consistently ranked among the top three of the "World's Most Livable Cities" by The Economist. It has also been recognized as an important contributor to evolution and progress of the global economic system. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on <a href='http://www.asia.com/hotel'>Asia.com hotels</a> search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <a href='http://www.asia.com/'>Asia.com</a> is neither affiliated with nor sponsored by Hotel Grand Chancellor. This article is provided for informational purposes only.

Sydney, Australia - The Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney

One of the finest hotels in Sydney is the Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney. This boutique hotel is best known to harmonize style and comfort in its accommodations. The hotel boasts of 415 guestrooms where chic meets elegance with its furnishings and its in house offerings. There ate three dining options on the hotel - the Charr, the Gallery Restaurant and Bar and the Inbargo. Each of the rooms is designed with warm earth tones with many modern amenities designed for the hip traveler to Sydney, Australia. <br/> <br/> The city of Sydney in the "land down under" Australia is built around Port Jackson. Considered as one of the most multi-ethnic and multi-cultural cities in the world, it is one of the major destinations of immigrants to Australia. First reached by the western world in the travel of British sea captain Lieutenant James Cook in 1770, the city has grown to become one of the most inhabitable cities in the world according to the Economist. <br/> <br/> The Amora is positioned between Circular Quay and Darling Harbour in the middle of Sydney's central business district. It is also located near the historic Rocks district and the breath-taking view of the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The hotel is just a short 25-minute car ride from Sydney International Airport, making it one of the prime accommodations in the city. <br/> <br/> So if you wish to experience the best and brightest of Sydney, then check yourself in to the Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney as it stands in the heart of city that is the gateway to Australia. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on Asia.com's hotel search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <br/> Asia.com is not affiliated with nor sponsored by The Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney Hotel. This article is provided for informational purposes only.

Sydney, Australia - The Swissotel Sydney Hotel

The Swissotel Hotel Sydney is one of the finest premier five-star hotels that have made a name for itself with its impeccable service to its guests. The hotel offers 359 guest rooms and suites with amenities like king size beds, broadband Internet services, and business facilities at your disposal. The rooms in the hotel provide plush furnishings with a spacious bathroom with separate a bath and shower. The Executive Suites provide a separate lounge and seating area with other offers catering to the business traveler's needs. <br/> <br/> Sydney is a bustling metropolitan area of 4,399, 722 million people and has a rich and diverse population of ethnicities and races. This melting pot culture of the city was best celebrated as it hosted the 2002 Summer Olympics. From there, the city has continued on its push towards sustainable living with many of its enterprises and homes making changes to include environmental improvement as part of its overall goals. <br/> <br/> The Domestic and International Airports are easily accessible from the hotel's location. The Botanic Gardens is a lush oasis in the city that is near the hotel. Also a short distance away is Circular Quay and Chinatown areas of Sydney, as well as Cockle Bay and Darling Harbor. For the fashionista, there is Paddington and the Queen Victoria Building to go to not far from the hotel. <br/> <br/> The Swissotel Sydney Hotel continues the tradition of Swiss elegant service in the modern day city of Sydney for its guests and visitors. It is highly recommended that you billet yourself to the hotel for a full-scale service as you experience Sydney at its best. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on Asia.com's hotel search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <br/> Asia.com is not affiliated with nor sponsored by The Swissotel Sydney Hotel. This article is provided for informational purposes only.