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friday 07.20.07
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| .down under |
The name Australia comes from the Latin for "unknown southern land." Although it's a big and often remote country, there are countless ways for you to get know Australia's unique and endless charms.
Cover the most ground and explore the very best in food, fashion, and culture with an Aussie Air Pass from Qantas, which includes a round-trip ticket to Australia and three additional domestic flights once you're there. Like the freedom of taking whatever road you choose? Forge your own path on one of these 14 Crackerjack Drives, like the High Country Loop or the devilish Tasmanian Journey. Want to ride the rails from ocean to ocean? Hop the legendary Indian Pacific line, which travels west to east and offers the longest straight stretch of train tracks in the world.
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American Airlines also offers some great package deals for the fall and winter months. We suggest you see the Wonders of Australia over 12 glorious days (starting at $8125). Start in cosmopolitan Melbourne, getting a taste of the good life in the restaurants, bars, and arts centers of Federation Square. After a drive through the country, you'll spend two days on idyllic Lizard Island, the northernmost resort in the country, located right on the Great Barrier Reef. End with three nights in Sydney, home to the famed Harbor Bridge and Opera House. For a great dinner with a view, try Flying Fish at the Jones Bay Wharf. If you book this trip before August 31, you'll get a high-flying bonus: a 40-minute helicopter flight over Ayers Rock.
To experience Australia's indigenous culture, visit the Australian Dream Time Artists. Spend 6 days on an adventure designed to your specifications by expert local guides. Starting in Alice Springs and continuing deep into the Outback, you'll visit Aboriginal communities and meet the local artists. If a little rough riding is more your style, work (and play) like a local on an Outback Cattle Stations vacation. You'll visit two working sheep and cattle stations, but also find plenty of time to relax at area wineries and local pubs.
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