$6509
Exploring Australia with Fiji 2012
Welcome to Australia, a country where a casual, outdoor lifestyle intersects with cosmopolitan cities and scenic beauty. It offers you so much—unique wildlife, brilliant colors in the tropics, an Outback adventure, sumptuous restaurants, lively nightlife, fun shopping, and much more—and on this tour, you’ll have a chance to experience it all! Plus, you’ll spend time in beautiful Fiji relaxing after your grand Australia adventure.
Discover some of Australia’s unique wildlife, including the famed Tasmanian Devil, a carnivorous marsupial with the appearance of a small, stocky dog; the iconic kangaroo, which number roughly 40 million in Australia; koala; crocodile; and Little Penguins, the world’s smallest penguin, which you’ll see emerge from the sea and march across the beach to their sand dune burrows during the Penguin Parade in Melbourne.
Learn about the way of life in the remote Outback with your visit to Alice Springs and a trip highlight—a journey on the Ghan Train. This overnight train journey will offer a fascinating perspective of the Outback as you travel from Alice Springs to Adelaide. Of course, this vacation also offers you the opportunity to see Australia’s most famous sights, including the remarkable and colorful Great Barrier Reef and Uluru (Ayers Rock). Also discover its most popular cities, including Melbourne, Cairns, Adelaide, Hobart, and Sydney.
If you want to explore Australia and Fiji to experience the way of life here, this vacation is for you. You’re sure to return with lots of photos, memories, and stories to share with friends and family back home.
Dates From:
02/09/2012 through 12/06/2012
Trip Length:
22 days
Supplier:
Globus family of brands
Itinerary:
| Day | Description | View All + |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 |
Arrive in Cairns, Australia. G’day and welcome to Australia! Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. This evening, your Tour Director hosts a special welcome dinner at your hotel. (D) |
View Details + |
| Day 2 |
Cairns. Great Barrier Reef Excursion. Board a fast catamaran for a CRUISE to Green Island, one of the many tropical islands on Australia’s famous Great Barrier Reef. Here you can choose to SNORKEL, take a GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT TOUR, or walk through the island’s cool rainforest. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. You might consider upgrading to a full-day excursion to the Outer Barrier Reef. In the evening, consider a unique experience at the famous Flames of the Forest, where you enjoy tropical dining in an actual rainforest and authentic Aboriginal culture through storytelling and music (operates seasonally). Or, consider a sunset cruise followed by a delicious dinner at a waterfront restaurant. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 3 |
Cairns–Darwin. This morning, enjoy a special visit to CAIRNS TROPICAL ZOO for your chance to meet Australia’s native animals. You’ll also enjoy breakfast in the park, a talk by a wildlife keeper, and will have the opportunity to have your picture taken with a koala! Afterward, you may choose to join our optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. See magnificent scenery, lush rainforests, and twisting waterfalls from the comfort of a restored, historic mountain train. For the return journey you may choose to take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway. Or, take a tour to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park—a fascinating portrayal of Aboriginal culture, dance, and folklore. Then, fly to the top end of Australia to Darwin, famous for its strategic importance during WWII. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 4 |
Darwin–Kakadu National Park. Today, see giant termite nests on the way to KAKADU NATIONAL PARK. Explore parts of nearly 7,300 square miles of unspoiled waterways with a rich heritage of Aboriginal culture and stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre to learn about Kakadu’s habitats. CRUISE waterways where you may view crocodiles, and walk ancient trails to see Aboriginal rock petroglyphs. An optional light-aircraft flight over the park should not be missed. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (B,D)Note:During the wet season (December through April) it can be difficult to see crocodiles in the wild. |
View Details + |
| Day 5 |
Kakadu National Park–Darwin. Depart your hotel this morning and stop at WINDOWS ON THE WETLANDS VISITOR CENTRE, an interactive display of Kakadu fauna. Return to Darwin for sightseeing. See the elegant colonial architecture of the city’s historic buildings that survived Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Visit the splendid BOTANIC GARDENS and beautiful East Point, an area rich in WWII memorabilia. Also visit the ART GALLERY to view fine collections of Aboriginal art. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 6 |
Darwin–Alice Springs–Ayers Rock. During a brief stop in Alice Springs, enjoy a visit to the SCHOOL OF THE AIR to learn how education services are provided to children living in the vast Outback. Then, visit the OLD TELEGRAPH STATION to discover how the locals live in this remote area and to learn the history of how the early settlers developed communication. On to Anzac Hill, a tribute to the war heroes of Australia and New Zealand. Afterward, fly to Ayers Rock. Travel to a popular lookout to enjoy views of the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological splendor of some 30 brilliant monoliths. There is time to take photos before returning for a TOUR around the base of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and to “Sunset Strip” for a drink, canapés, and to witness the changing colors of the rock. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 7 |
Ayers Rock–Alice Springs. For an unforgettable experience, rise early for an optional camel ride to watch the sunrise at Uluru. Then, fly to Alice Springs and visit the ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE to appreciate how medical service are provided to those in remote regions. The afternoon is at leisure. You may want to visit the Desert Park to learn more about the flora and fauna of the Australian desert. Tonight, enjoy a unique Aussie experience—an OUTBACK BARBECUE that features a meal of typical campfire fare, fascinating tales of the Outback, and Aboriginal folklore. (B,D) |
View Details + |
| Day 8 |
Alice Springs–Ghan Train. This morning, enjoy free time to relax. Later, a highlight of your vacation begins as you board the GHAN TRAIN for an overnight journey that offers a fascinating perspective of the Outback. (B,L,D) |
View Details + |
| Day 9 |
Ghan Train–Adelaide. Arrive in Adelaide for a city tour along the wide tree-lined streets and well-manicured gardens. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 10 |
Adelaide. The day is at leisure. You may choose a full-day trip to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 11 |
Adelaide–Barossa Valley–Melbourne. Today, drive to the BAROSSA VALLEY with its Bavarian villages, baroque Italianate chateaux, and stunning vineyard scenery. Breathe in the beauty of the Adelaide Hills in the leafy greenness of the quaint yet charming villages. Enjoy a sumptuous lunch and sample some of Australia’s premium wines at a LOCAL WINERY. Later this afternoon, fly to Melbourne, Australia’s second-largest city. (B,L) |
View Details + |
| Day 12 |
Melbourne. Today’s tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful FITZROY GARDENS and then drive past the lush Royal Botanic Gardens. You’ll soon discover the differing architectural influences of this city as you see the Victorian Arts Centre and other buildings of significance. For a unique dining experience, join an optional outing on board a historic tramcar restaurant as it winds its way through the streets of Melbourne. Later this afternoon, drive to Phillip Island to see a PENGUIN PARADE from an exclusive viewing platform. (B,D) |
View Details + |
| Day 13 |
Melbourne. Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s passionate food and wine scene—or walk along Chapel and Brunswick Streets, famous for great shopping. Take a trip outside of town to sample award-winning wines in the Yarra Valley or drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road to see the “Twelve Apostles.” (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 14 |
Melbourne–Hobart. Fly to Hobart, Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian Devil. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 15 |
Hobart. Excursion to Port Arthur. Today’s tour of the scenic Tasman Peninsula features the blowhole, the Devil’s Kitchen, and the Tasman Arch coastal formations. Visit PORT ARTHUR, where the first convicts arrived in the 1830s. A guided tour of the Penal Settlement shows you the ruins of the 4-story penitentiary and the model prison—grim reminders of Australia’s days as a penal colony. Also included is a short stop at a nearby WILDLIFE SANCTUARY to see the famous Tasmanian Devil, the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 16 |
Hobart–Sydney. Today, fly to Sydney, the largest city in Australia. The afternoon is at leisure for you to discover this exciting and beautiful city on your own. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for optional activities. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 17 |
Sydney. Today, explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Travel to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair in the city’s BOTANICAL GARDENS for a great photo opportunity of the harbor, Opera House, and Harbour Bridge. Then, take a guided tour of the SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a visit to one of the country’s leading OPAL COMPANIES to discover how the beautiful gems are mined. You will also take a CRUISE on Sydney Harbour that highlights this bustling waterway and will tour the world-famous BONDI SURF BATHERS’ LIFE SAVING CLUB and enjoy a lifesaving demonstration! Along the way you will also see some of the city’s original suburbs and the historic Rocks area, home to Sydney’s original convicts. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 18 |
Sydney. Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join our optional excursions to the Blue Mountains or to Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s leading wine-growing regions. You can even climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge! Your Tour Director will help you make the most of this exciting city. Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant with fantastic views of the highlights of Sydney. (B,D) |
View Details + |
| Day 19 |
Sydney-Nadi. Today fly to Nadi, Fiji. Upon arrival, transfer to the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa. The rest of the day is at your leisure. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 20 |
Nadi. This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the island. Visit VISEISEI VILLAGE, where the Fijian people first landed centuries ago, and the GARDEN OF THE SLEEPING GIANT to see a stunning private collection of tropical orchids. Then, stop at the VUDA LOOKOUT, a tropical fruit farm perched on a cliff, where you will sample fruit and juice from the orchard. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. (B)Note:Sightseeing tour does not operate on Sundays. On these occasions, sightseeing will be done on Day 21. |
View Details + |
| Day 21 |
Nadi. A full day at your leisure. Your local host will have suggestions for optional activities. (B) |
View Details + |
| Day 22 |
Fiji. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B) |
View Details + |
Highlights:
Cairns
Great Barrier Reef cruise with choice of activities; visit Cairns Tropical Zoo, welcome dinner
Darwin
Orientation tour; visit to the botanic gardens and art gallery
Kakadu National Park
Sightseeing tour; Yellow Waters Cruise; Windows on the Wetlands Visitor Centre
Ayers Rock
Sightseeing tour around the base of the rock and a sunset toast
Alice Springs
Sightseeing tour; visit the School of Air, the Old Telegraph Station, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service; Outback barbecue
Alice Springs-Adelaide
Travel in Gold Service on the legendary Ghan train
Adelaide
Orientation tour; visit Barossa Valley; winery lunch and wine tasting
Melbourne
Sightseeing tour; visit Fitzroy Gardens; witness the Penguin Parade
Hobart
Excursion to Port Arthur; visit a wildlife sanctuary
Sydney
Sightseeing tour; Sydney Harbour cruise; visit the Opera House, botanical gardens, Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club, and an opal company; farewell dinner
Fiji
Guided sightseeing tour; services of a local host, who will provide you with any information you require and will assist you with sightseeing to suit your interestsNotes:
PRICE DETAILS: Dates and Prices do not include air travel.
Participation in this tour requires purchase of the following flights from Globus, not included in pricing: (1) roundtrip air from your U.S. gateway and intra-tour air segments, starting at $3575 (based on Los Angeles, departure in March, 2012); or (2) intra-tour air segments only. Required intra-tour air segments are: Cairns/Darwin; Darwin/Ayers Rock; Ayers Rock/Alice Springs; Adelaide/Melbourne; Melbourne/Hobart; Hobart/Sydney; Sydney/Auckland; Rotorua/Dunedin; Sydney/Nadi. When planning your trip, please allow two extra days before tour date for travel between the USA and the South Pacific. Air prices were effective on August 10, 2011 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your tour, air prices may be higher.
Prices based on double room occupancy.
Single Room Supplement:
$2050
Triple rooms are not available.
Extra Nights per person in Cairns:
in single room $231; in twin room $104.
Extra Nights per person in Fiji:
in single room $187; in twin room $102.
2013 prices and itineraries are subject to change. Details will be available in August 2012.
What's Included:
MEALS: American breakfast daily (B), 2 lunches (L), and 6 dinners, including a welcome dinner in Cairns, an Outback barbecue in Alice Springs, and a special farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour
HOTELS: American breakfast daily (B), 2 lunches (L), and 6 dinners, including a welcome dinner in Cairns, an Outback barbecue in Alice Springs, and a special farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking Sydney Harbour
Related Promotions
Don't miss out on Paradise at Atlantis
From: Apple Vacations
Don't miss out on Paradise at Atlantis
Related Cruises
18 Night Australia & New Zealand Cruise
From: Celebrity Cruises
12 Night Australia New Zealand Cruise
From: Celebrity Cruises
13 Night Australia New Zealand Cruise
From: Celebrity Cruises
Related Destinations
The bright, buzzing metropolis of Los Angeles, California, will always mean something different to everyone....