Cairns Australia was settled by Europeans in 1876, during the Australian gold rush. Due to harsh, unpredictable weather, and teeming wildlife, the area had previously been deemed by settlers as dangerous and uninhabitable. Today, the city of Cairns is modern Australia's gateway to one of the planet's most diverse rain forests, the Daintree Rainforest. The city center is called the Esplanade, and is a meeting place for locals and tourists alike. In addition to wildlife, Cairns Australia is known for deep sea fishing, scuba diving, adventure tours and activities, as well as The Great Barrier Reef, a collection of coral off the coast of Cairns that is truly unparalleled anywhere else in the world.
The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular Cairns attractions. The reef stretches more then 2000 km along the northeast coast of Queensland, and can be in enjoyed in a number of different ways. Travelers can take a ride on a boat with an underwater observatory; take a helicopter ride to view the beauty of the islands from above, or even jump in and scuba dive through sections of the reef. Cairns Australia diving is one of the most popular things to do in the city. Whether you have been diving for a long time, or are brand new to swimming, most Cairns diving schools will offer options to cater to your skill level. An experience viewing the multitude of fish and wildlife that are unique to the Cairns Australia Great Barrier Reef is one of the many reasons Cairns diving is such a memorable activity.
Yet another of the things to do in Cairns Australia is to visit the Daintree Rainforest. Touted as the world's safest rain forest, and home to the highest number of plant and animal species that are rare, or threatened with extinction, anywhere in the world, the Daintree Rain forest is a must see for anyone traveling to Cairns.
After spending the day in Daintree, you may want to stop by the Rainforest Market in Cairns, to pick up a souvenir. For more shopping and things to do in Cairns, the nearby Port Douglas Market is a must see. Most patrons at the Port Douglas Market are locals, but travelers will have no trouble fitting in and finding excellent deals. If night shopping is more your style, check out the Chinese Night Market. The market is closed during the day but open all night long. Here, you'll find gifts, souvenirs, as well as some unique desserts and foods.
If all of this shopping and touring hasn't tired you out too much, there are still plenty of things to do in Cairns Australia. One more of the many popular Cairns attractions is the Champagne Balloon Flight, which flies guests high above the city of Cairns, as well as the Great Barrier Reef. This is a great trip to take late afternoon or at sunset.
Another great activity during sunset is eating. Dining in Cairns will likely take you along the Esplanade, where most of Cairns' premier eating establishments can be found. Food in Cairns is a delightful mix of fresh world class seafood, international favorites, and local fare. Some restaurants even serve emu, crocodile, and kangaroo as local treats.
However you plan to spend your time in Cairns, you are sure to have a vacation filled with sun, fun, and plenty of diverse surroundings
fun facts about australia
fun facts about australia 
Australia travel
australia history
sydney opera house
sydney opera house
australia facts
australia facts
sydney opera houseThe Sydney Opera House is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world. In addition to representing Sydney, the opera house has also become a symbol for the country of Australia throughout the world. Resting majestically on Bennelong Point as it reaches into Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Opera House is truly an unforgettable sight. The original plan to build the opera house was put forth in 1950, and designed by John Utzon. Interestingly enough, his vision was more advanced than architectural and engineering abilities of the decade, and it wasn't until 1973 that his ideas were finally put into place. The doors were opened by Queen Elizabeth II on October 20th of that year, with its opening show, War and Peace.
Today, the Sydney Opera House provides over 200,000 tours each year, and has over 1000 rooms. A diverse mix of dance, theatre, and musical performances are presented year round, and locals, as well as tourists, make up the over 2 million guests this Australia opera house entertains each year.
Transportation to the opera house in Sydney is generally quite convenient from any place in the city. Many hotels offer shuttle service to the Australia opera house. Or buses, commuter trains, and harbor ferries all makes frequent stops at the Circular Quay, an area for public transport services that is a quick five minute walk to the opera house in Sydney. Car parking is also available for a fee. Guests will find the Sydney Opera House Car Park at the northern end of Macquarie Street, which is fully covered.
If your opera house plans leave time for a meal, there are also a few restaurants and bars on the opera house grounds. The Opera Bar offers a stunning view of the harbor, as well as an array of creative cocktails and delightful cuisine. This is also the best place to stop for a quick snack. Another great option for food is the Guillaume at Bennelong, with service before performances, as well as late night for patrons looking to catch a meal after a show. There are also bistro and espresso stand options, open during the day, as well as during performance intervals.
To book the performance of your choice, it is generally recommended to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets can be purchased online, or at the Sydney Opera House box office during the day. If you plan to attend more then one show, be sure to take advantage of the discount offered to patrons who purchase tickets to three or more shows all at once. Families traveling to the opera house in Sydney will also find an excellent group of performances for children. The 2006 year marks the first year of the International Children's Film Festival, showcasing a wide range of fascinating, and often educational, performances for children.
Whether or not you plan to take in a show, this Australia opera house is certainly a must see when traveling to Sydney. Tours are available daily for a moderate fee. The opera house in Sydney has over 1,000 rooms, and is truly a marvel in architectural design and engineering.
