Australia is a unique country in that it can boast of having a full continent all by itself. In comparison to its large size, Australia’s population is not all that big (a little less then 23 million people). But a tourist who visits Australia will find a fascinating place with impressive and unique natural wonders and a culture that is in some ways familiar but in other ways refreshingly different. Many of the tourist attractions in Australia are not quite as well known as their European or American counterparts (though there are notable exceptions – think of the Sydney Opera House for example) but they are every bit as interesting once you get a chance to see and explore them.
Lovers of nature could greatly enjoy a visit to Kakadu National Park which is a large and very unique natural park in Australia’s Northern Territory. It covers an area of almost twenty thousand square kilometers in size and that area is full of astonishing natural scenery and has a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Those who are more comfortable in a city environment will find some of Australia’s major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. Sydney is the largest of these cities with a population of ouver 4,6 million, while Adelaide, ranking fifth in terms of population, has a little over 1,2 million residents.
Choosing the best cruise lines is something that must be suited to your interests. There are many highly rated companies to choose from, but what it comes down to is what you’re looking for. Some cruises are known for the excellent ports they take you to, others are known for luxurious accommodations. Some cruise lines try to give you everything. You’ll find fresh water pools, full gym/spa setups, buffets prepared by world class chefs, and really anything that may mean luxury to you. There is even a new cruise line with an artificial ski hill on deck.
Take time to consider what you’re hoping to get out of your vacation. The best cruise lines for an adventure vacation will take you to ancient ruins and historical locations. The best cruises for a party atmosphere will feature quality cocktails and excellent nightlife. If you’re in the mood for romance, the best cruise lines will be the ones that take you to the most romantic beaches of the Caribbean or the Mediterranean. It’s up to you to figure out what elements you want to include in your dream vacation, and find the appropriate cruise line to give you what you want. Once you’re on the ocean, you can forget all your troubles.
Anastasia Island offers all of the fun beach activities you expect from a vacation in Florida. But there is so much more to do on the island that you could spend a fabulous week there and not even go to the beach. We had a hard time, but we have narrowed the list down to the top 3 things to do on Anastasia Island.
1. Realm of the Alligator Show at St. Augustine Alligator Farm – The Alligator Farm, founded in 1893, is Anastasia Island’s oldest tourist attraction. For over 100 years they have put on exciting and informative shows and none better than Realm of the Alligator. Watch the alligators fly through the air at feeding time, putting on an acrobatic display that most people would assume was not possible for the normally slow moving creatures. It really is amazing to see how quick and athletic the alligators can be when properly trained.
2. Anastasia Island State Park – Since being established as a protected area by the state of Florida in 1949, the Anastasia State Park has offered visitors a chance to enjoy numerous activities in an environment very similar to the natural coastline of Florida before the settling of Europeans centuries ago. The sandy beaches and tidal marshes are home to a variety of birds, plants and other wildlife that are rarely seen on more urbanized beaches.
3. Dark of the Moon: Lighthouse After Hours Tour at the St. Augustine Lighthouse – The lighthouse is one of the most popular destinations on Anastasia Island during the day, but at night it takes on a whole new dimension. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday night they offer a tour for paranormal enthusiasts. The location has become a hot spot of activity for paranormal researchers ever since the popular television series “Ghost Hunters” seemed to capture actual footage of a ghost while doing an investigation at the lighthouse. Tour guests are permitted access to most areas of the lighthouse and allowed to use cameras, video equipment, sound recording devices, or any other supernatural investigation gear. Space is limited and they frequently sell out, so book your spot early if you want to try your hand at ghost hunting.
Whether you’re a beach bum or an animal lover, Sanibel Island in Florida will make your vacation a stay in paradise.
Shelling on Sanibel Island is best during the wintertime. Summer winds don’t help shells to wash up on the beach during the summer months, unless there’s a tropical storm. Bird watching is also best during late Autumn and the winter. Bird lovers should head to the Ding Darling Wildlife Refuge to watch migratory birds fly by. The refuge has been around since 1945 and takes up a third of the entire island.
If lounging on the beach is your goal during your vacation, make sure to bring plenty of sun screen and a beach umbrella. There’s practically no cover or shade on the 15 miles of beaches on the island.
Book a night or more at one of the Sanibel Island Hotels in the area. Local hotels include the Tortuga Beach Club Resort, the Blue Dolphin Cottages and Mitchell’s Sandcastles.
Australia is a unique country in that it can boast of having a full continent all by itself. In comparison to its large size, Australia’s population is not all that big (a little less then 23 million people). But a tourist who visits Australia will find a fascinating place with impressive and unique natural wonders and a culture that is in some ways familiar but in other ways refreshingly different. Many of the tourist attractions in Australia are not quite as well known as their European or American counterparts (though there are notable exceptions – think of the Sydney Opera House for example) but they are every bit as interesting once you get a chance to see and explore them.