Tasmania
Australia's smallest state has wonderful wilderness areas and is
renowned for the part it has played in recent years in world conservation
and environmental issues. It is therefore a popular place for bush
walkers and visitors who appreciate nature and outdoor activities
within the World Heritage Area, which covers 20% of Tasmania. However
the state also has some lovely old buildings and places of historical
interest and museums.
The north and east coats have some great sheltered white sand beaches
with great swimming such as at Seven Mile Beach. On the water, sailing
and sea kayaking are very popular around the coast and with so many
lakes and rivers rafting and canoeing is easily arranged.
Whether for a few hours or for a few days, bush walking is a must
as it allows you to see the country side at its best, particularly
in the Cradle Mountain Lake - Lake St Clair National Park and the
Southwest National Park. The East Coast has almost perfect conditions
for windsurfing and there are some great surfing beaches close to
the capital Hobart.
Try some unusual fish like trevella or stripey trumpeter, the range
of seafood is excellent and is combined with other local produce
to produce really good quality food in even the smallest of restaurants,
and can often be quite modern using influences from Asia or the
Mediterranean. An excellent way to try out the local brews is to
visit the breweries or wineries so you can try out the range available.
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Where to dance the night away
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Discos and nightclubs are generally found only in the cities but
lots of pubs away from the cities will have a Live Music night and
is a great way to meet the locals. Other forms of entertainment
include cinemas and casinos again in the main cities such as Hobart
and Launceston.
The arrival of the yachts to Hobart, usually between the 29th December
to 2nd January, on the Sydney to Hobart and Melbourne to Hobart
Yacht Races is celebrated with a Mardi Gras. In October 10,000 people
head for the Derby River Derby to watch the no rules raft race which
is greatly enjoyed by all especially the soaked competitors.
There are some wonderful photography books of the wilderness areas,
and although it won't last long, some local cheese or honey will
no doubt remind you of your trip when you use it a home. If you
still have some space in your luggage there are some wonderful wood
carvings and turnings by local craftsmen.
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Language: English
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Currency: Australian Dollar (A$)
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Visas: Visa required
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Time: GMT + 10
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Climate: Maritime climate - rarely very hot or extremely cold
(Hobart average Temp Max 22șC Min 5șC). Four seasons with January
being the middle of Summer.
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UK Tourist Office: Australian Tourist Commission, Gemini House,
10-18 Putney Hill, London SW15 6AA. Tel: 0181 780 2227.
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Vaccinations: None required
Call us on 0870 1999 038 for further details
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