Tasmania, the island just off the south coast of Australia is truly one of Earth's last great refuges. 37% of Tasmania is comprised of natural reserves, national parks and world heritage sites.
The Australian state is the most mountainous region in the entire country, and lends to some of the most breath taking scenery in the world. Australia's largest temperate rain forest is located on the Northwest portion of the island, where the Northeast portion has some of the most beautiful beaches, such as the Bay of Fires.
The Bay of Fires
To truly experience the best Tasmania has to offer, it is best to go during the summer months from December to February. For being a small landmass, the climate can vary widely due to the different types of geographic terrain. For example, the average daytime high in the summer can vary up to four or five degrees depending on where you are.
Also during the summer months are numerous festivals that are ongoing around the island. One of the most popular of such festivals is the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race. The race starts on Boxing Day (December 26th), and typically ends 3 - 4 days later as the yachts reach Constitution Harbor in Hobart City. Coincidentally, the race ends during the Taste of Tasmania festival, which features food and wine from around the island.
Constitution Harbor
And if food and wine is your game, Tasmania is the place for you. Traditionally most common forms of cuisine were derivatives of English fare, but over the last few decades, Tasmania food has had a revolution with more focus on locally grown foods and vegetables which have allowed the food industry to create its own identity.
As for libations, there are a number of locally produced beers, both from microbreweries and larger scale productions that allow their beers to be available on mainland Australia. For a popular local brew, try Boags beer.
The wine industry has also blossomed over the decades, partially due to Tasmania's unique ecosystem and climate. One very notable vineyard is Moorilla Estate. Moorilla is a remarkable complex which focuses not only on wines, though the vineyard has been producing award winning wines since 1958, but also makes beer, contains an antiquities museum, has a boutique hotel which showcases world class art, and hosts exclusive events throughout the year. Moorilla Estate is a remarkable winery that is much more than just wine, and could really be a Feature Destination in its own right. Visit their website at Moorilla Estate.
If your style is more urban contemporary rather than country style relaxation, try visiting some of the major cities on the island. The main cities are Launceston, Devonport, and of course Hobart, the region's capital city.
Hobart City
Hobart, a city of just over 200,000 is considered one of Australia's most sustainable cities, and has also been ranked as one of the most innovative cities on the globe. It is a major hub for Antarctic Services, serving as a close port to the south pole for research facilities. Hobart is also no stranger to tourists. The city sees more than 40 cruise ships a year dock in its harbors.
If your looking for a lively place where you can mingle with the locals, try Salamanaca Place, which turns into a giant outdoor market every Saturday. Great bargains can be found, and you will no doubt meet dozens of locals. It's estimated that more than 25,000 people shop at Salamanaca every weekend.
If you're done with shopping and want to let off a little steam, you can try out dozens of taverns, pubs, restaurants and clubs on Elizabeth St. or Sandy Bay. If nightclubbing is what appeals to you most, search out the Syrup Club, a hopping nightclub that features some well known DJs and acts. Check them out at Syrup Club. Or try your luck at the Wrest Point Hotel and Casino.
The summer season in Tasmania is just beginning and now is the time to visit. The easiest way to travel there is by air and the most common major airlines that fly there are Qantas and Virgin Blue. But if your too late to make it there this year, why not plan ahead and book for 2011? You'll have the privilege of attending the Ten Days On The Island Festival, which is Tasmania's bi-annual international arts festival. Go and soak up some culture.
Happy Travels
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