Expert: Mick Maurer - 7/1/2007

Question
Hello, my wife and I are planning a trip in early Feb 2008 with 4 other family members. We plan on flying into Sydney, and from there we are not too sure where to go next.  We do have some friends in Tasmania we will be seeing sometime during our visit. We do want to go to the GBR area eventually, however not sure whats worth seeing and not seeing along the way. I would like to stay away from guided tours if possible and be able to see the attractions on our own. We dont mind driving, and we are more the outdoors type. My parents are big wine drinkers and would probably like to visit a descent winery. I have also been searching for places to stay such as bed and breakfasts' however I havent seen too many. I know 2wks is not that much time and realize we will probably be busy. I just dont want to over do it to where we aren't enjoying it. Any information you may have to help organize our trip including our visit to Taz would be greatly appreciated. Thank You.

Answer
Howard:
Indeed one of the problems in organizing a trip to Australia is that there is so much to see and do and you just can't possibly make it all fit into two weeks.  One of the best resources is to use the services of an Aussie Specialist Travel Agent because many have been there an done what you want to do and can make excellent suggestions for lodging, tours and a specific itinerary.  And, they don't cost any more than if you try to do everything yourself.  That said, here is a general outline of what I would suggest for the two weeks.  
Limit your Itinerary to Sydney, Cairns, Melbourne and Tasmania.  After the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanical Gardens and perhaps the Blue Mountains or Hunter Valley Wine area, you should fly to Cairns.  You can dive or snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Aboriginal town of Kurunda and perhaps go river rafting on the Tully River or visit Daintree Rainforest.  From there, fly to Hobart, Tasmania.  Your friends probably have an itinerary in mind like Port Arthur or Cradle Mountain.  From there take an overnight ferry to Melbourne.  Do a two day one night tour of the Great Ocean Road and perhaps a 57 Chev Convertable trip to the Yara Valley Wine area.  A trip to the Queen Victoria Market in downtown Melbourne and dinner on the Colonial Tram Car Diner are not to be missed.  From Melbourne you fly back to Sydney for your flight home.
I hope this helps.  I am an Aussie Specialist Travel Agent have been to Australia 9 times.  If I can help plan your specific itinerary please email me directly at Aussiemick@aol.com.  

Mick Maurer
Aussie Travel