Heading into the wild unknown of the Australian outback may come with a mixed bag of emotions.  While it can certainly provide for an exciting adventure, it could also mean tangling with extreme weather conditions, annoying (and potentially life-threatening) insects, and of course, the abundant wildlife that the land down under is famous for (not to mention some crazy terrain).  However, it could also be the trip of a lifetime, full of vistas untouched by man and unspoiled by the creations of man.  So if you’re looking for adventure in the outback, here are just a few things you may want to consider before you jump in your Jeep and head out into the open.

1. Map it.  Knowing where you’re going isn’t always that adventurous, but without a fixed destination on the map you could easily get lost in the outback.  And that far away from civilization, you may have a tough time powering up your GPS (or getting a signal).  So go old-school with paper maps, a compass, and a list of landmarks to help you out.  Even better, go with a guide.
2. Dress appropriately.  Anyone who saw the second Sex in the City movie (which admittedly, probably wasn’t too many of you) no doubt scoffed at the crazy outfits the fab four of New York City wore on their camel ride.  Don’t find yourself stuck in the same boat when your tour the outback.  Bring clothing that is appropriate for the weather, which could be by turns sweltering hot or pouring rain.  In either case, you’ll want clothing that covers and protects your skin from the elements.  And for sunny days, make sure you have plenty of broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunblock.
3. Bring plenty of food and water.You should always pack ample water when heading out into a desert environment.  Although not all of the outback is dusty and dry, you don’t necessarily know when you’ll be able to find drinkable water.  So always make sure you have extra.  You’ll be especially happy if you get detained for some reason, and of course, if you get lost.  The same goes for food.  Unless you’re on a hunting expedition or you happen to know your way around edible plants of the outback, you need to ensure that you have the food needed to see you through your trip.
4. Pack a first aid kit. You should always plan for the worst when you’re beyond the reach of immediate help.  This means having everything from bandages and tourniquets to aspirin and EpiPens.  This is a necessity when you’re out of touch with the rest of the world, including the services of first responders and medical professionals.
5. Contract with a travel agency.  Instead of risking your neck by bouncing over sand dunes until you drop your Grand Cherokee transfer case, why not go out with a tour group (and more importantly, a guide)?  Whether you’re visiting the outback for the first time or going on your ump-teenth outing, a tour guide can likely take you to a few spots you’ve never seen before, or at least ensure that you reach your destinations safely and expediently.

Palazzo Versace Gold Coast

Australia may be best known by tourists for the antics of movie and TV stars like Paul Hogan (you probably know him better as Crocodile Dundee) and nature-loving croc hunter Steve Irwin, but there’s a lot more to this southern nation than untamed outback.  While you can certainly tour the less habitable parts of the country to get your fix of kangaroos and koala bears, you might not be too interested in sleeping out in the open where any number of deadly beasts could get at you.  Luckily, the country that many consider to be somewhat wild is positively teeming with luxury resorts at some of their most popular travel destinations.  So if you’re looking for a laid-back vacation complete with luxurious accommodations, here are just a few resorts you might want to visit.

1. Quay Grand Suites – Sydney, NSW.  This hotel overlooking Sydney Harbor was named the South Pacific’s Best Luxury Hotel last year by TripAdvisor, and it isn’t hard to see why.  Rooms are poshly appointed (many with large decks), the dining room is right on the water, and the indoor pool is a spectacular space you’ll have to see to believe.  Plus, proximity to the opera house and other attractions means you’ll never be bored.
2. Palazzo Versace – Gold Coast.  This incredible hotel is brought to you by none other than Versace magnate Donatella herself.  If the magnificent, Italian-inspired guest rooms aren’t to your liking, you could always stay in one of the property’s 72 condominiums.  And if you love the water but the white-sand beaches just aren’t doing it for you, don’t hesitate to take a boat from their private marina out into the Gold Coast’s famous waterways.
3. Cradle Mountain Lodge – Tasmania.  If you’re tired of touring the Australian mainland and you’d like to get a little closer to nature, you can do it in comfort and ease at this “rustic” lodge in the middle of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park.  The main lodge boasts incredible views, amazing local food and wine, and of course, a roaring fire.  But you’ll retire at night to your own timber cabin (complete with high ceilings).  And after a day of hiking, you can relax and rejuvenate at the gorgeous spa facility overlooking the surrounding wilderness.
4. Thorngrove Manor Hotel – Adelaide, South Australia.  This extensive manor house set amidst the greenery of Adelaide provides a stunning rendering of European architecture and gardening that looks like it came straight from a fairy tale.  Towers and turrets adorn the exterior of the building while guest rooms are spacious (many with domed ceilings).  And if you’re looking for the added luxury of complete privacy, this is the place to find it.
5. Longitude 131˚.  This eco-friendly resort is no villa in Paphos, but that doesn’t mean you won’t enjoy a spectacular view and luxury accommodations (with an eye on sustainability, no less).  Their signature “tents” are built on stilts so as to cause fewer disturbances to the desert atmosphere (although it serves the dual purpose of keeping the creepy-crawlies out of your room) and each of the 15 bungalows has a view of nearby Uluru.  Everything runs on solar power and guests will enjoy locally-provided food and wine, not to mention a clear conscience to go with their luxury experience.

There’s really no better way to connect with friends or relatives than by taking a road trip.  Hours trapped in a car with others could, of course, be a nightmare (especially when traveling with teens), but more likely you’ll find that you’re singing familiar songs, relating stories that no one has heard (or recounting tall tales that have been rehashed a hundred times to the delight of listeners), and generally spending quality time with the ones you love.  But if you set out blindly, without attending to at least a few basic necessities, then you may find that you encounter some problems down the road.  And it is imperative that you have a plan when you travel in Australia’s backyard, which can harbor many dangers for the unwise voyager.  Here are just a few tips to keep you on track when you tour the outback by car.

1.  Plan your route, bring a map.  Do you really think you’re going to find cell towers and satellite signals in the middle of nowhere?  Probably not.  And yet, you decided to rely on your smart phone or GPS to guide you through the outback.  Brilliant.  It’s always a good idea to cart along an old-school paper map with a highlighted route (yes, you’ll have to use a highlighter pen to do this).  If you lose reception or the batteries go out on your Garmin, you’ll be very happy you brought along this lightweight tool.  You can even mark gas stations and eateries along the way so you know when to fill up (both the gas tank and the people).

2.  Bring plenty of water.  This is not only a good idea for thirsty travelers, but it could also help you out in a pinch.  If your car overheats, you can add some cool water to the radiator and hopefully make it to your destination (or at least a gas station where you can purchase some radiator fluid).  If your car flat out breaks down and you have to hoof it in the hot sun, extra water will definitely come in handy.  Along those same lines, you should bring snacks like fresh fruit and power bars (both healthy, slow-burning fuels that are also portable).

3.  Pack for the season.  Summer days can get as hot as 50˚C (120˚F) while winter nights can be as chilly as -10˚C (15˚F) on average.  So if your heat or AC is on the fritz, you need to be prepared to deal with the climate.  And don’t forget that rain is common (especially during the summer months) and the downpour can be torrential.  So bring along some wet-weather gear just in case.

4.  Get a full inspection.  You might not be too keen to shell out the dough for a full work-up on your automobile, but you definitely don’t want to break down in the middle of the desert because you failed to find and fix a simple problem.  Make sure to top off all your fluids and check important features like AC, headlights, and windshield wipers.

5.  Stay in the car.  One of the many amazing sights you could encounter on your trip across the outback is an array of wildlife.  However, this is not the zoo.  Stay in the car with the windows rolled up whenever you encounter animals in the wild!  This brings up another excellent point, which is that you should always bring a medical kit when you’re far from civilization.

Michael Appel writes for Breakdown Cover where you can find Aviva Car Insurance and other great providers, rates, and guides.

Visiting Australia is a lot like traveling anywhere; you probably know most of what you need to bring.  Passport?  Check.  Tourist Visa?  Check.  Extra underwear?  Check (you can thank your mom for this one).  And yet, there are items you will need that are particular to the place you’re visiting.  When it comes to Australia, these items might seem pretty self-evident, but if you forget one you’re going to be sorry.  So here are just a few must-have items to squeeze in your luggage when you head to the land down under.

1.  Swimsuit.  If you’re visiting Australia during their summer months, you’re probably going to want to strip down and hit the beach because it gets hot!  So pack your teeny bikini or swim trunks for some fun in the sun and a shot at a great tan.

2.  Rain coat.  Floods may not be common in the outback, but that doesn’t mean they don’t get their fair share of rain.  And when it comes, you might suffer from several days of downpour.  Since rain is sporadic, come prepared with a slicker.

3.  Sandals and tennis shoes.  If you pack a nice pair of sandals, you don’t really have to bring heels.  And you certainly don’t want to go out barefoot; not only are ground-dwelling pests like biting ants and spiders an issue, but you can actually burn the bottoms of your feet on the ground if it’s hot enough!  And since you’ll probably do a fair bit of walking on your vacay, comfortable walking shoes are a must.

4.  Sunblock and sunglasses.  It sometimes seems like the sun shines brighter in the land down under, so you’ll want to make sure your skin and eyes are protected.  SPF 30 (minimum) is recommended for sunblock, and make sure that all items offer UVA and UVB protection.  You may want to buy sunblock when you get there, but take along a small bottle for the interim.

5.  Power adapters.  Not every country has the same type of outlets (or voltage).  In fact, many are different throughout the world.  So if you want your electronics to work (or charge), you need to bring an international adapter (or a set).  You can get a basic universal adapter online for less than five dollars.

6.  Medication.  If you realize thousands of miles from home that you’re going to run out of your prescription, you might have a pretty hard time arranging a refill.  So make sure to get enough medication to last through your trip (plus some extra in case of emergencies like delayed flights).

7.  Smart phone or tablet with Wi-Fi.  Need a map?  How about a book to take on the plane?  Looking for a hotel, restaurant, or some entertainment in the city you’re visiting?  Want to talk on Skype instead of paying international calling fees?  With a smart phone or tablet and a Wi-Fi hotspot, you can now manage these and many other tasks for free when you travel internationally.  These days, you can have everything on one device to make your trip to Australia hassle-free.

Emma Martin writes for Charming Sicily where you can find the best in Sicily hotels and plan your next luxurious vacation.

Most people looking for a romantic holiday in Australia probably consider major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, which have a lot to offer in the way of fine dining and live entertainment.  Or they may consider a boat trip out to the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to snorkel amongst exotic marine life.  But most people who are visiting Australia may be a little wary of hopping in a car and heading to the expanses of the outback, where miles of desert may separate you and your destination.  However, there are a few road trip destinations that come with very little implied danger and a lot of romantic rewards along the way.  Here are some to check out.

1. The Great Tropical Drive.  Often listed as the best road trip the country has to offer, this spectacularly scenic drive will take you from Cairns to Mission Beach over eight days.  Along the way you’ll see the Great Barrier Reef off the coastal roads, the Daintree Rainforest (watch out for token crocs), sprawling grasslands, well-known wildlife (kookaburras and kangaroos) at the Mareeba Tropical Savannah and Wetland Reserve, and of course, gorgeous beaches as you reach the end of the road.  With plenty of beautiful scenery and a lot of alone time, you’re sure to find the romance you seek.

2.  Red Centre Way.  If you want to take in the best of the outback (way out back), you’ll find it with this week-long trip.  Start at Alice Springs, where you can check out the Anzac Hill and the Old Telegraph Station, then head towards Ayers Rock (Uluru).  This can’t-miss natural phenomenon may not seem very sexy.  In fact, the world’s largest monolith is just a giant plateau rising out of the grassland.  But along the way you’ll see natural wonders like mountains, the Valley of the Winds, and the amazing night sky in the desert (stars seem close enough to touch).  And the rock itself is a sight to behold, especially with the one you love.

3.  Yarra Valley.  Australia is known for producing some of the best Shiraz and Riesling varietals on the market.  So if you’re into food and wine, you can’t get more romantic than taking a tour of the Valley that may rival Napa or some of the famous regions of France.  You can hit up several tasting rooms on your tour, head to the Healesville Sanctuary for some one-on-one interaction with a Koala, and then stay the night in a quaint cottage inn (there are several in the valley), waking up early to take a hot-air balloon ride (from De Bortoli vineyard) that ends with a champagne brunch.  It’s like a wine-drenched slice of heaven.

4.  Lorne to Warrnambool.  If you’re looking for a shorter day-trip (or a couple of days if you want to make stops along the way), start in Lorne with a nice meal and then head down to Apollo Bay along what some claim is the most beautiful stretch of coastline in Australia.  From there you can hit up some secluded beaches and check out the Twelve Apostles (rock formations out in the waves).  Keep going until you reach Warrnambool, the only city along “Shipwreck Coast”.  If you come at the right time of year, you can take a boat trip to watch whales.

5.  Monkey Mia to Kalbarri.  Start in Monkey Mia, where you can frolic in the waves with dolphins (yup, they’ll come right up to humans).  You could spend a whole day here, taking a camel ride along the beach, going on an evening cruise, or following an astronomy tour.  Then head to Kalbarri, stopping along the way to check out the gorges along the Murchison River.  After a little rock climbing or whale watching you can spend the night at a romantic beach villa.

Jamie Lewis writes for car insurance comparison where you can find cheap car insurance rates that will suit your needs.

The land down under is best known for sun, sand, and surf.  In fact, the blazing heat is what draws many tourists to Australia throughout the year.  It provides for all sorts of daytime activities, such as scuba diving, surfing, and even going on walkabouts.  And of course, plenty of people like to get out and work on their tans.  But once the sun goes down, they might be at a loss as to how to entertain themselves.  Luckily, Australians also love the nightlife (they like to boogie) and there are plenty of ways for visitors to have just as much fun after dark as they do in the daylight hours.  Here are just a few of the amusements that await those looking for evening activities in Australia.

1.  Live performances.  Whether you’re heading to the Sydney Opera House for the concert tour of the summer or you simply want to sip a few martinis and listen to some jazz, there are a wide variety of venues to suit your tastes.  Bars and lounges with live entertainers dot every major city (and plenty of the smaller ones, as well), and visitors can often take advantage of nightly live performances at the lounge in their hotel.  For larger events you’ll want to purchase tickets in advance (although a good concierge may be able to help you out at the last minute).

2.  Theater.  Although Australia may not be quite as well known for theater as, say, New York City or London’s West End, they do have a passion for performance.  You can see a variety of shows (and some fabulous architecture) in Melbourne’s Theater District, catch anything from the experimental to full blown musicals around Sydney, and see one of the many troupes that perform regularly at the Sydney Opera House.

3.  Clubs.  Anyone who has visited Australia knows that the club scene is off the hook.  It seems that the only thing they love more than surfing is dancing the night away to house beats.  You can find plenty of reviews online to help you choose a particular club, and you might want to check out a venue just for the DJ (they have plenty of famous names and you can ask the locals who’s the best spinner in town).  But you might have more fun club-hopping to sample the best that Australia has to offer when it comes to hot singles, laser lights, and body-thumping club tracks.  So grab a Foster’s and get your groove on.

4. Dining/dinner cruises.  You might think the sum total of Australian cuisine can be defined by the phrase “throw another shrimp on the barbie”.  And while the surf-and-turf style of food preparation is popular, there are actually quite a lot of options when it comes to dining in the outback.  One great way to experience Australia’s food culture is from the deck of a ship.  Most of the port cities offer spectacular nighttime dinner cruises that provide an excellent meal along with a scenic view of the city, from the sea.

5.  Wine tasting.  Australia has become world renowned for some of their amazing wines, Syrah and Shiraz varietals in particular (for white, their Rieslings are also great).  And luckily, you can find tasting rooms or even vineyards in almost every region.  Spend an evening familiarizing yourself with their many fine wines and you’re bound to remember your trip fondly (if you remember it at all)!

Darcy Johansan writes for The Guestlist Club where you can find info on the hottest club in London, China Whites.

One of the very best parts of visiting a foreign country is trying out the traditional foods that locals eat daily or for special occasions.  Now, you may be thinking that this means a trip to Australia will necessarily entail the consumption of Aboriginal delicacies like witchetty grubs or honey ants.  But in fact, there are plenty of Australian foods that are much tamer and decidedly easier for squeamish westerners to eat.  So forget the myths about the way they eat down under.  Open your mind and open your mouth and you’ll find that there are a ton of truly delectable foods to sample when you visit the continent of Australia.  Here are a few that you absolutely must try.

1.   Vegemite.  The quintessential Australian food-spread is like the down-under version of peanut butter, as it gets spread on everything from toast to crackers to fruit slices.  The taste of this spread, which looks a bit like apple-butter jelly (but is thicker and stickier), is somewhat on the salty side, but the real flavor that will stand out is a bitter sort of yeasty-ness.  It’s a bit difficult to describe unless you’ve tried it, but if you’re going to sample the flavors of Australia, you really can’t miss out on this staple of the everyday diet.

2.  Shrimp (from the barbie, naturally).  The phrase “slip a shrimp on the barbie” didn’t come from nowhere.  Actually, it was first uttered by iconic actor Paul Hogan (you may know him better as Crocodile Dundee) in an ad developed by the Australian Tourism Commission back in the ‘80s.  It’s pretty clear that the ad was aimed at American tourists since the Australian word for shrimp is actually prawn.  In any case, there are plenty of these little critters floating around the continent and making for a delectable treat once grilled on the barbecue (or barbie).

3.  Sausage rolls.  Although meat pies may be slightly more popular, they are not exactly native to Australia.  The sausage roll, on the other hand, is a spinoff that you should definitely have a go at.  It consists of a puff pastry filled with (what else?) sausage, as well as onions, herbs, and spices.  It is commonly served with tomato sauce on top and as of late, it has undergone somewhat of a makeover as restaurateurs have started adding world flavors to the mix (with international sauces and spices).

4.  Lamingtons.  When a food is added to a list of Heritage Icons (Queensland) and given its own day of celebration (National Lamington Day falls on July 21^st), you should probably consider it a sign that the food in question is worth a taste.  This treat, in particular, is bound to delight just about anyone, although it is a rather simple confection.  There are a couple of different ways to make it, but traditionally it comes in the form of a small piece of sponge cake that has been covered in chocolate icing and then rolled in desiccated coconut.  Some people also like to put a layer of strawberries and whipped cream in the center of the cake, but this is optional.

5.  Pavlova.  There is some contention concerning the origins of this tasty dessert, as it is claimed by both Australia and New Zealand.  Despite the controversy, you should definitely try it on your visit to the outback.  The dessert consists of a baked meringue base (crispy on the outside, marshmallowy on the inside) topped with whipped cream and local fruit (strawberries, kiwi, etc.).  It’s totally delicious, wherever it originated, and you simply must have some when you visit Australia.

Lisa Ryan writes for AdvanceMe, the nation’s leading merchant cash advance provider and credit card factoring company.

Often cited as the most beautiful state in Australia, Queensland has a lot to offer the visitor looking for both natural attractions and bustling city life.  From underwater adventures to pristine beaches to clubs, shopping, and more cuisine than you can shake a stick at, you’re going to find everything you’re looking for in a vacation when you travel to Queensland.  So if you’re seeking some fun in the Southern Hemisphere, book your trip today and be sure to check out some of these amazing locales.

1.   Great Barrier Reef.  Australia boasts some of the finest waters in the world for snorkeling and scuba diving, but the best of the best can be found off the coast of Queensland.  Check in with tourist outlet Passions of Paradise to secure entry to secluded and protected Michaelmas Cay, a bird-nesting sanctuary that features warm, shallow waters, white sand, and easy access to all the amazing marine life you can handle.  This company can also get you to Paradise Reef, a gorgeous and remote section of the Outer Great Barrier Reef.

2. Daintree Rainforest.  Tours of this ancient tropical rainforest will take you from stunning panoramic views of the coast (Alexandra Lookout, Cape Tribulation) to an inlet frequented by saltwater crocodiles (Cooper Inlet) to a hike under the canopy of ages-old trees.  You can even enjoy a swim in a natural waterhole in the heart of the rainforest.  If you’re looking to commune with nature, it really doesn’t get any better than this World Heritage site.

3.   Dreamworld.  This playground for adults and children, located on the Gold Coast, has more to offer than your typical theme park.  With thirteen “worlds” to try out, you can free-fall on the Giant Drop, go backwards at 161 km/hr on the Tower of Terror II, or get turned upside down and inside out on “the tallest, high-speed gravity rollercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere”, also known as The Cyclone (don’t worry, there are family-friendly rides, too). But that’s not nearly all; you’ll also find laser shows, virtual racing, a complete water park, wacky live performances, 3D cinema, and even after-dark events.  It could be better than Disney World and Universal Studios combined.

4.   Whitsundays.  This island chain north of Brisbane consists of 74 sun-drenched isles, eight of which are inhabited and almost all of which have attained National Park status.  Two of the must-visit sites in this string of islands are Whitehaven Beach, which offers five miles of virtually untouched white sand and warm, clear water; and Hamilton Island, which claims the prestigious title of the largest island resort in the South Pacific, packed with enough amenities and entertainment to keep any traveler busy for days.  Also big are sailing trips and cruises through the islands.  Jump aboard a boat to see even more of the amazing Whitsundays.

5.  Brisbane.  The Brizee City is the most populous in the state, and it has plenty to attract the visitor seeking the best of Queensland.  From the Story Bridge to the Shrine of Remembrance to the city skyline as seen from the water, there are definitely some awe-inspiring sights to behold.  But there are also museums, restaurants, concerts, and shopping galore to entertain and delight any traveler (be sure to check out the Queen Street Mall for a day of rampant consumerism, or upscale Edward St., which is comparable to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills).

Shirley Simpson writes for cheap holiday deals where you can plan your next exciting vacation.

Perth may not be the best known or most visited city in Australia, but it is the largest city in the state of Western Australia and it has a lot to offer the traveler looking for a getaway down under.  The City of Lights (one of many besides Paris) plays home not only to a bustling metropolis boasting a population of nearly two million, it is also a beautiful natural paradise for wildlife, flora, and fauna that will dazzle the senses.  So if you’re looking for a way to see some of the best of Australia (with less tourists in tow), then here are just a few attractions to recommend Perth.

1.  Rockingham.  If you’re an eco-friendly enthusiast who is into nature (particularly marine life), then you’re going to get a kick out of Rockingham.  With Seal Island and Penguin Island both boasting examples of their namesakes, you’re in for some exciting nature-watching.  But that’s not all; dolphins also frequent the warm waters of the Indian Ocean here on the western coast of Australia.  Animal interaction may be the most popular pastime in this self-proclaimed center of eco-tourism, but you can also take in tons of fun activities like windsurfing, scuba diving, golf, and fishing.  And to finish off a great day, head to one of the local wineries for dinner and a tasting.

2.  Swan Bells bell tower.  One of the biggest attractions in the city, this bell tower is famed as one of the largest musical instruments ever created.  Nestled on the banks of the beautiful Swan River, viewers will be amazed by the architectural marvel (a glinting glass tower that reaches to the sky and looks like nothing so much as a space-age death-ray device).  But the real draw can be found in the bells themselves, some of which originated at London’s Saint Martin in the Fields Church in Trafalgar Square (and have apparently been in existence since the 15^th century).  Climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the river and stick around for the hourly chimes.

3.  Sunset Coast.  If you’re looking for a relaxing day of sand and surf, you can’t go wrong with this pristine beach that offers a prime example of Australia’s best coastline.  Located only 20 minutes outside the city, you’ll be surprised at the seclusion.  But that doesn’t meant there isn’t plenty to entertain you (if you need more than a nap on the fine, white sand or a dip in the cool, clear ocean waters).  Snorkeling is a no-brainer, and restaurants and shops await in the harbor.  But if you’re looking for something off the beaten path, check out nearby Yanchep National Park for a chance to view some of Australia’s most recognizable wildlife (koalas, in particular).

4.  Perth Concert Hall.  It may not be as famous as the Sydney Opera House, but visitors to Perth can take in a little of the city’s thriving arts-and-culture scene by attending a performance by the West Australian Ballet, the West Australian Opera, or the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (not to mention scheduled dates for touring pop stars).

5. Perth International Arts Festival.  While visitors can check in at the Western Australian Museum or the Art Gallery of Western Australia for exhibits year-round, those who come to Perth during the month of February can take advantage of the oldest and largest multi-media festival in the country.  So if you like music, dance, theater, and visual arts, you may want to plan your trip around this month-long entertainment extravaganza.

Chris Larue writes for Fatty Weight Loss where you can find articles on health and nutrition in addition to information on behavioral weight loss and diet tips.

When in Sydney, there are few things more touristy than visiting the world-famous Sydney Opera House.  And yet, there’s a reason that people come from all across the globe to behold this oddball architectural structure that has become the iconic image most associated with Harbor Town.  While there are plenty of other sights to see in this city of four million that is bordered on one side by water and on the other by gorgeous, forested mountains, and a plethora of activities and attractions for the resident or tourist looking to hit a club, sample local wine, learn some history, or enjoy the great weather, you can experience all of that rolled into one venue if you visit the Sydney Opera House.  Here are the top five reasons to plan your trip today.

1.  Architecture.  The award-winning design of this unique building is both organic and precisely geometric at the same time.  The expressionist style of the structure might seem more at home on a canvas if it weren’t so beautifully crafted in three dimensions.  With a series of descending concrete “shells” for a roof, there’s simply no other building in the world quite like it.  And whether you’ve seen it before in print or media, or this is your first experience gazing upon it, you’re sure to marvel at both the oddity and the aquiline beauty presented by the sleek curvature of the nested domes.

2.  History.  The structure was originally imagined in 1957 by Swedish architect Jørn Utzon for a design competition (which Utzon won, giving him the chance to build this now-celebrated landmark) and finally erected in 1973 (at an astronomical cost of $102 million).  The architect said he got the idea for the shells from peeling an orange.  Subsequently, Utzon was awarded the Pritzker Prize for architecture in 2003, with the Sydney Opera House being cited as his masterpiece.  The building itself became a UNESCO World Heritage Site on its 25^th birthday in 2007.  Learn more on a tour of the venue.

3. View.  Situated as it is on the harbor, surrounded by water on three sides, there are few locales in Sydney that boast better views.  And with an open-air amphitheater (amongst other stages) that looks out over the Sydney Harbor, you can enjoy the performance of a lifetime, complete with both entertainment on the stage and a gorgeous, scenic view of the water.

4.  Royal Botanic Gardens.  If you’re looking for a little added value when you visit the opera house (not that you need it), think about doing a day trip to see the adjacent botanic garden, a true gem that houses some of the most beautiful flora and fauna Australia has to offer.  You can cycle or hike around the expansive grounds, taking in the sights, sounds, and scents of nature on display, then easily hop over to the opera house for an evening performance.

5.  Shows.  The name may give you pause, thinking that all you’re going to get is some old-school opera or ballet, but although the Sydney Symphony Orchestra and the Australian Ballet both perform regularly, you’re just as likely to score tickets to a jazz festival, a dramatic play, or the hottest pop concert of the season.

Jamie Ryan writes for Mauritius where you can plan your next exciting vacation.