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Australia's Contrasts

23rd August 2012

Australia has an abundance of glittering island gems off its coastline, each offering its own charms and attractions. None are more famous than the islands off the spectacular coast of Queensland, where you’ll find anything from small slivers of coral and sand to islands swathed in rainforest and bushland.

Easily accessed from Cairns in the Tropical North, picturesque Lizard Island will win your heart. Declared a national park in 1939, Lizard Island’s lush rainforest interior is just perfect for nature walks. This island resort offers spectacular diving, game fishing, sailing, indulgent spa treatments and secluded and pristine beaches for you to discover on foot or by motorised dinghy. It is also from here that you can dive the famous Cod Hole and get up close with the enormous potato cod.

The Northern Territory is home to some of Australia’s most extreme landscapes. Scenery varies dramatically from the deserts of the Red Centre to the tropics of the Top End. From its landscapes to the languages of its people, the Northern Territory is testament to the richness and complexity of indigenous Australian culture. The spiritual connection of Aboriginal people with this land is displayed through ancient rock art paintings and passed down through generations.

The Top End encompasses the capital city of Darwin and stretches east to Arnhem Land, south to Kakadu National Park and north to the Tiwi Islands. A holiday in this spectacular region offers you tropical wilderness, gorgeous coastline, authentic culture and bountiful wildlife.

In the Red Centre, the beating heart of this great nation, you can find iconic natural treasures such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Kings Canyon and the quaint township of Alice Springs.

Whether you prefer to bask in luxury and palm-fringed sunshine on Queensland’s islands or to cast your eye over the desertscapes of our great outback, there are many reasons to holiday at home.

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Travel Associates