Australia (Odyssey Guides Australia)

American Carl Robinson has made his home in Australia, the world's oldest and perhaps most unique continent. His entertaining and intelligent guidebook gives the traveler a wonderful, and very personalized, introduction to this enigmatic country. Blessed by a near-perfect climate, life in Australia has a distinctive pace and its people are among the most hospitable on earth. There are real secrets to Australia, and this book recommends some favorites, with the emphasis on how to have a good time, covering what to see and how to get there, from the "Wild West" of the Northern Territory and the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to the vibrant cities, such as Sydney and Melbourne. Many excerpts from literature, by and about Australians, are included, along with essays on the idiosyncrasies of "Aussie" life: the irreverent Aussie vocabulary, pubs, wine, sports, cinema and the uneasy status of the native Aborigines.

• A new and extensively revised edition • Special focus on having fun in Australia • Several new special topics, including an essay on nationhood and the referendum, the world's biggest celebration of gay pride and identity—Sydney's annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, the Great Grain Races, Sydney's Bridge Climb and Australia's National Musuem in Canberra • New color photographs reflecting the diversity of Australian life and culture • Literary excerpts illuminate local culture and idiosyncrasies • An entertaining, personal book by an experienced author who knows the country intimately • Useful and informative maps • 100 color illustrations, 13 maps