13 Days Australia and New Zealand Highlights

About the destination: Sydney is the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Hawkesbury River, Sydney is considered one of the world's most beautiful and liveable cities in the world. It has an iconic skyline, some wonderful museums, delicious restaurants, a lively atmosphere and tons of natural beauty. As with any large city there are many attractions, but the most important are the Sydney Opera House, set on the Sydney harbor, it is one of the world's most recognized landmarks, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, Sydney's main catholic cathedral, St Mary's Cathedral, the Royal Botanic Gardens and a vast array of beautiful beaches. Sydney's most famous beach, Bondi Beach has a lively promenade and it is a famous spot amongst surfers. Just outside of Sydney, we have the Blue Mountains, an unspoiled mountain range filled with Eucalyptus trees. Sydney is a city of immense vitality and it is an amazing and fascinating destination. There is something for every visitor, history, art, culture, nature, fashion, gastronomy, architecture and above all, Sydney is a city that knows how to have fun.

About the destination: Located on Port Phillip Bay, astride the Yarra River, Melbourne is the capital and most populous city in the state of Victoria, and the second most populous city in Australia. With a trendy and lively atmosphere, it is considered the cultural, gastronomic, sporting, fashion and shopping capital of Australia. There're lots of beautiful examples of architecture throughout the city such as its modern and vibrant skyline. Some of Melbourne’s main attractions are the stunning Botanical Gardens, the Royal Exhibition Building, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the magnificent Anglican cathedral of Saint Paul's and one of Melbourne’s most famous landmarks, the Shrine of Remembrance. St Kilda is Melbourne's bohemian neighborhood. Here you’ll find sunny beaches and a great restaurant, bars and nightlife scene. Just outside of Melbourne, we have the spectacular Twelve Apostles, a unique rock formations by the shore. Dynamic and cosmopolitan, Melbourne is Australia’s proud cultural capital. Considered one of the world's most livable cities, the capital of the south-eastern state of Victoria is a pleasant visit and a perfect base to explore the surrounding region.

About the destination: Queenstown is a resort town in Otago in the south-west of New Zealand's South Island. It is built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu, a long thin Z-shaped lake formed by glacial processes, and has spectacular views of nearby mountains such as The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peak and just above the town; Ben Lomond and Queenstown Hill. One of the best views is from the top of Bob's Peak reached by the Skyline Gondola. Breathtaking views of Coronet Peak, The Remarkables mountain range and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peaks.

About the destination: Auckland is the largest metropolitan area in both Polynesia and New Zealand and a vibrant city with multicultural influence. It is located between two natural harbours, the Waitemata Harbour and the Manukau Harbour and it is dubbed the City of Sails, since it has the highest number of boats per capita in the world. In the city center, there are many galleries, museums, theatres, trendy bars, and top class restaurants which offer an extensive range of cuisine. The Skytower dominates the city’s skyline and offers a spectacular view of the city. Queen Street, the commercial hub area, starts at Waitemata Harbour and runs for nearly three kilometres in a virtual straight line. From the city centre you can walk to the Auckland Domain and the Museum, Albert Park, Parnell, a lovely historic precinct, and up to Newmarket with its many shops. From there it is not far to Mt. Eden and its impressive crater, and to Cornwall Park which is at the foot of the famous One Tree Hill. One Tree Hill, an extinct volcano cone and ancient Maori settlement offers great panoramic views of this sprawling city. Cosmopolitan and charming, Auckland is easily accessible, beautiful, and with plenty to do. It certainly is New Zealand's most vibrant city.