Lend A Hand In Saving Australia's National Parks

One of the popular tourist attractions for many Australia visitor visa holders in the country is visiting its many national parks. In fact, there is often more visitors in these parks, than there are at the man made attractions all over the country. This really makes them very important to Australia.

So why are national parks so popular to many tourists? After all, all you get to see there are rocks and trees, as said by some non-park enthusiasts. Yes, this is one is indeed very true, since most of the times, what you will see in the parks are green trees. And often, you will actually be very far from modern conveniences when touring them.

However, nature parks does have plenty to offer that city attractions will not. For one, it is a good way to escape the busy life in the city, which, for many, have become quite grueling. And nature parks are also some of the of the places to go to if you want to also leave the pollution of the city behind. You will be able to breathe a clean and fresh whiff of air here, even for only a few hours.

And to those thinking that nature parks are boring walks, well, in the park, then you are definitely a bit mistaken. You see, many of Australia' national parks are well developed in that they provide an assortment of activities and attractions for any tourist. For instance, if you are someone who is more into a quite Sunday walk, then you can head the trails laid out in these parks. On the other hand, if you are looking for something a bit more exciting, then you can try out such extreme sports as mountain biking and rafting right in the parks' grounds.

The above will definitely convince you that Australia's national parks are really good places to spend your vacation in. however, there is still something that you will surely love about nature parks, and that is interacting with some of Australia's unique creatures. Sure, you have probably seen animals, like kangaroos, in the zoos; but here, you will be able to see them as they live in the wild. And not only will you be able to see the familiar ones, you can also catch a glimpse of the unique ones, like koalas.

And it is because of these interesting Australian creatures that tourists are not only encourage to troop into the parks, but also to help protect them. Thought the Australian Park Services has given a lot of effort in preserving the parks and wildlife, there is still a lot to be done here. Even foreign tourists can be a lot of help by becoming a member of the many preservation organizations and lending a hand.

Image reference: https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijc31N5dMCmtkIgUP9AryKTPlh9r-GCk_SwZ2th-RIgPUpRcSv4SLbPg2JbCjl0Iojq3A9lu-X7vCgx7qSlCGvLrxyt5cez_I0ES6Qnx2Ev5_H6mqbUMAiC6-oFVdBaJoiAuUro7QuEQK7/s400/Hopetoun+Falls,+Aire+River,+Otway+National+Park,+Victoria,+Australia.jpg

Sydney, The Next Capital Of Australia

Many of those who do not have an Australia visas yet often think that Sydney is the capital of the country. This, of course, is incorrect, since Canberra is the capital of Australia. However, this one is not surprising, as Sydney is considered as the country's most popular city.

In fact, it is an interesting thing to note that Sydney actually did vie for the right to become the country's capital when Australia was just in its early years. Its closest rival for the privilege was the city of Melbourne, this is actually the main reason behind the long standing rivalry between the two cities. However, as we all have known already, the right went to Canberra; which some people jokingly said was done only to stop Sydney and Melbourne from going to war against each other.

However, up to this date, many Sydney residents and supporters still assert that the city is the rightful heir to Canberra's position as the country's capital. They also say the the city has all of the qualification to be the next capital, should Canberra bow down. And so, in order to settle this question, it would be a good idea to look into what the city has to offer to people.

Historically, Sydney is, in fact, the first to be established in the country. It was here that British explorer Captain James Cook set up the first colony when he landed in the continent in 1788. the city was formally named in the same year. From then on, Sydney expanded rapidly to become Australia's largest city. Today the current population of the city is around 4.5 million people, which is higher than either Canberra or Melbourne.

Aside from its historical importance, the city of Sydney also boasts of many landmarks that has become well known all over the whole world. One particular example of this is the Sydney Opera House. Completed in 1973, the building is easily recognizable, even from afar, due to its unique roof. Aside from its outstanding architecture, the Sydney Opera house is also renowned for the great performances that are presented here daily. The building was even been declared as World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 2007.

Another thing that makes Sydney stand out among the rest of Australia's cities is that it has been the host to many important world events during the years. One of the biggest of such events is the 2000 Summer Olympics, which was attended by more than a million people and which has gathered the best athletes from all around the world. Also, Sydney's New Year's fireworks displays is actually broadcasted to over a hundred countries worldwide.

As you can see, Sydney has so many things that will definitely make it the rightful capital of the country. But then again, that question will probably take a little while before it can be answered.

Image reference: http://www.sydneygalleries.com.au/files/product/images/50/JMartin_SydneyAtNight.jpg

Sydney And Melbourne: The Battle To Become Australia's Next Capital

Many people who have an Australia visas and have visited the country already know that its capital is the city of Canberra in the Australian Capital Territory. However, for the many more that have yet to set foot in the country, Canberra is unheard of as a place. In fact, most often think the capital is either Sydney or Melbourne (with Sydney being the more popular guess).

This one is actually not surprising, as both cities have been battling it out against each other for the privilege of becoming Australia's capital ever since the country was established some one hundred years ago. This one has been briefly halted when Canberra was declared the capital in the early years of the twentieth century. However, oddly enough, the rivalry between the two cities has since been rekindled and continues until today, though, of course, on a friendlier note.

However, many thoughtful ones are still not that satisfied. They are still thinking which one would be the better one as the new capital in case Canberra finally bows out from its throne (which, by the way, it got only because Sydney and Melbourne can's stop arguing with each other). And so, here are some of the arguments being given by supporters of both cities.

For those who want to have Sydney as the capital of Australia, their main reason is that it is the most widely known Australian city. This one is, in fact, actually very true. As have been said above, most people outside of Australia actually think and believe that Sydney is the capital of the Country.

Also, they said that there are many well known landmarks in the city. This includes such world renowned pieces as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. They also contend that Sydney has become the host of many important world events, such as the the 2000 Olympics.

On the other hand, Melbourne itself would not be outdone. Supporters say that Melbourne has in fact become a very important place in world affairs. It is also considered as one of the foremost centers of art and culture in the world today. Another proof of Melbourne's worth that many supporters says makes it the rightful heir to the position of Canberra is the fact that it rated as the third most livable city in the world today, as ranked by the World Bank.

Until Canberra actually secedes its position of being Australia's capital, it is unlikely that the battle between Sydney and Melbourne is unlikely to be settled. However, many people would agree that both are indeed a great city to live in.

Image reference: http://www.headquartersmagazine.com/wwwhq/downloads/images/sydney.jpg
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Come And See Dazzling Perth

For those planning on an Australian immigration, looking for a place to permanently settle in is one of the first things that you need to do. And since there are so many places to choose in the country, this can be quite a hard one. However, one of the cities that you certainly need to have a look at is Perth.

For those not in the know, Perth is the capital of the state of Western Australia. The city is located on on the southwestern coast of the continent and lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Darling Ranges. The city has a current population of over 1.6 million people and is the fourth fastest growing cities in the country today.

So, aside from the basic facts, what does Perth has to over to prospective immigrants? Well, how about a great climate for a start? Since Perth is located on the southern part of the continent. It has a moderate weather. However, summers can be rather hot, with the month of February being the hottest. On the other hand, rain is not uncommon in this part of the country. In fact, the city does experience some considerable rainfall yearly, though not as plenty as other regions of the world.

Aside from the wonderful weather, the city itself is is definitely a place that you must visit, if not live in permanently. You see, Perth is considered as one of the cleanest cities in Australia today, so you are sure that you will not worry about your health when staying in here. Also, the city prides itself for being very orderly and the people here are law abiding, which means you are unlikely to easily get into trouble here.

However, despite being prim, Perth is one city that definitely isn't going to let go of its fun side. In fact, it is known as the “City Of Lights” all over the world. The monicker came from when the city flashed all of its lights as American astronaut John Glenn passed over it in 1962, a feat they would repeat decades later in 1998, when Glenn again passed overhead, this time, aboard the space shuttle.

And if you thing that the light shows are only for spacemen from above, you are wrong. You see, Perth is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country today. And there are countless of places that you would want to visit when staying here. During the night, the city's nickname really comes alive, as it buzzes with fun activities and events that both the locals and foreign tourists will sure enjoy.

So what are you waiting for? Come to Perth today and enjoy its glowing atmosphere.

Image reference: http://prometheus.med.utah.edu/~bwjones/C1705165967/E677609055/Media/Perth%20at%20night%20.jpg

Family Man Made Right Choice To Move To Australia

One of the many things that came to Darryl March's mind when he was discussing things with his wife in 2005 was migration to Australia. “I was in the country only once before, when I was stationed there for my job. However, even when I first stepped in the country, I knew that this is the place where I would want to bring my family to.”

March, 45, is a systems engineer for a large telecommunications company in the United States. He first went to Australia in 2004 to conduct a study on the proposed expansion of their company into the country. When the company did decide to pursue the expansion, March was one of the lucky employees who were chosen to oversee its operations.

“You can really imagine how happy I was. I was holding my voice when my boss told me about it,” he recalls. “When I told Edith (his wife) about the news, she actually went wild with excitement, that my kids came out of their rooms and asked what happened.”

“When we told them about it, Lenny, my four year-old, was asking 'Really Dad?! So we're gonna see real kangaroos?'” March chuckles. “And my other boy, Emil, was nodding gleefully. We told them that, yes, they would indeed see kangaroos, and they hurriedly went out of the house, telling their friends that they were going to Australia.”

March said that the paperwork for their travel documents was rather fast. “A friend of mine told us about this immigration agent and we immediately contacted him and had him help us. He assured us that getting ourselves a family visa won't take that long, and he actually came to his promise. We had our visa approved only four months after we applied.”

He said that when they got their visa, they immediately set up plans for settling in Australia. “My bosses told us beforehand that our main office will be located in Brisbane, so I already know where to look for a house,” He says. “Luckily, I was able to find one in the suburbs and only a few minutes' drive from my workplace. I read before that it was easy to buy property in Australia, and I actually found out that it is true. The seller and I just got into a small chat and we immediately sealed to deal, which, I tell you, is quite affordable.”

“We moved into Australia in 2007, and I immediately enrolled my kids in the community school in our place. And we were actually able to easily make friends with our neighbors, since Australians are very welcoming to us.”

“It's been three years now since we moved, and my family has greatly adjusted to life here,” he says. “Emil was, in fact, totally engrossed with the boomerang, ever since he first held one when we arrived here. And Lenny has finally seen what a kangaroo really looks like up close.”

Image reference: http://www.moving2australia.net/media/img/gallery/logos/intl_sites/!o-australia.png

What You Shouldn't Miss On Australia Day

If it took you so long to decide whether to go to Australia or not, then it is most likely that you have missed Australia day. And this one will surely be a disappointment. You see, Australia Day is one heck of a celebration for both locals and foreigners in the country, so it is definitely a must to attend.

For those not knowing, Australia Day, which is celebrated every 26th of January, it is the country's national day. It commemorates the first arrival of European settlers in the continent in 1788. the celebration has undergone several name changes throughout its history, from Foundation Day, to ANA (Australian Natives' Association) Day, to Anniversary Day, and finally to the present Australia Day.

So what is there in store for you here? As have been said, there are plenty of celebrations going around during Australia Day. And in fact, there are events happening everywhere you go during the day. Here's more, the celebrations don't happen only on Australia Day itself, but also a few days before it.

The celebrations actually begin a week before the actual Australia Day. At dawn on the 19th, hundreds of Australians gather around and share their views and hopes for the country. They then celebrate the founding of Australia through their reflections. The Australia Day Dawn event has been held annually for six years now, starting in 2005.

The actual Australia Day itself is begun by several traditional ceremonies that honor the country's Aboriginal people. One of such ceremonies is the Woogan ma gule Morning Ceremony held at the Royal Botanical Garden in Sydney. The event is marked by the showcasing of the traditional dance of the Gadigal people that once inhabited the area. They also offer prayers to their gods ion order to have a fruitful year.

Darling Harbour, also in Sydney is also another popular destination during Australia Day. Here concerts an fairs are held during the day all throughout the harbor. This one is definitely something for the entire family.

And if you happened to be in Canberra during this, then you will be lucky to watch the Australia Day Live concert. You will definitely get jiggy with it, as some of Australia's top musicians play for the audience. And here's something that you will definitely love about this one, free food. You will surely be stuffed once you finished the concert.

Lastly, you definitely shouldn't miss the Australia Day Regatta. This boat race takes two days to complete and will start from Sydney To Hobart. And if you are not into boats, then you can still stroll around the race site, as there are plenty of booths for you to visit.

If you've missed the Australia Day this year you can come and join us next year. We celebrate it at the 26th of January every year. Visit Australia and experience it..You can have an Australia visitor visa to join us Aussies celebrate our special day of the year.

Image reference: http://www.australianoftheyear.org.au/media/files/2w6f6k_1960-2010%20AOTY%20logo%20colour%20semi-stacked.jpg

Australian Life Compared To Other Countries

Yearly, thousands of applicants try their luck in order to move to Australia. You might be surprised to find out that it is not only the people developing countries who want to experience how it's like living in Australia. In fact, there are plenty of folks coming from richer nations, like America and the Uk, who like to move in this country. That's why there are a lot of people all over the world who are taking an Australia visa application.

So, what makes Australia very interesting for so many people? As it turns out, there are actually so many of them available. And as you read each one out, you will likely be convinced that the country might also be the right one for you.

The first big reason why many would want to go to Australia is because it is cheaper to settle there. You see, the cost of living in the country is actually much lower when compared to other western countries. For instance, buying a property in Australia will be at least 20-30% cheaper that getting the same in the UK. However, do note that this is only a general case, as there are certain types of property that will actually be higher in Australia.

Another thing that might surprise many, especially those living in the western countries is that the cost of petrol in the country is half the price of others. This means that it is actually more affordable to own a car in Australia than, in the UK. And because of this, it is no wonder that Australia is considered as one of the top car markets in the world today. Not only that, but this also paves the way for a lower public transportaion cost for many Australian commuters.

And of course, since we are talking about the cost of living here, it would be inevitable that we touch the issue of wage rates. And since the country has a large demand for skilled workers, it is actually possible to earn more here than in the US. Also, the social services system in the country cover a much wider area than, for instance, the US, which means that you will be able to save more of your income when it comes to getting this services. However, one thing that you do need to note is that the contribution rates for these are rather comparable to other countries; or in some cases, a bit higher.

Aside from the economical side of living in Australia, another thing that attracts many people to move into the country would be the people. Australians, compared to the businesslike attitude of many westerners, are known for being very warm and welcoming, so foreigners can easily adapt to life in the country. Also, since the country is composed of people with different ethnic backgrounds, it would actually be easy to find a place to fit in here.

Image reference: http://rad111.files.wordpress.com/2009/02/beautiful-sydney_australia2.jpg

Get Convenient Valentine Deals by Visiting Australia

You are probably busy right now working with your travel visa to Australia for a short visit. Well, keep going because Valentine's Day is approaching. Plus, here is another news that can spice up immigration to Australia, something that can put more weight with your Australia visa application. Australian hotels are offering their best deals, intended to sympathize with the atmosphere brought by the month of February. These offers are especially created for couples planning for a romantic getaway.

Australian hotels are really known for quality and elegance, and now that St. Valentin's special day is coming, they've just made their service even better. And from an online new provider, news.com.au, here is a list of hotels in Australia where you can enjoy the very special day and seize even until the end of the month. You can visit them by applying immediately for tourist visa for Australia, or you can go for an Australian ETA visa to get it the fastest as humanly possible.

Stamford, Brisbane- This is one of the five star hotel in the country. You can save up to 25 percent off when you go for a full rate of a room, along with a Valentine's Day package. The offer is called Romance and Seduction Package. This includes kind bed accommodation, a scented and candle lit room, French champagne, chocolate dipped strawberries and canapes, bottle of wine personalised with your love message, room service breakfast and late checkout 1pm. You can get the same offer in the Sir Stamford Circular Quay, Sydney Branch.

Reef View Hotel- This is found in Hamilton Island. All that you will get is a perfect sight of portions of the Great Barrier Reef. Book now for only $909 per person than includes breakfasts, twilight sail, dinner and airport transfers.

Sofitel Sydney Wentworth- The hotel is offering the “Air of Romance” package. The offer is composed of the breakfast in bed service, champagne and late check out at 4pm.

Sebel Playford Adelaide- Their Valentine packages start from $195. The Cupid Special offer includes a romantic night's accommodation with matching wine and house made chocolate. Such a very sweet treat to your sweet love.

Sofitel Fiji- Spend the entire week in this soothing and world class hotel for only &849 per person. The price includes the airfare, waterfront views, breakfasts and dinner.

Novotel Perth Langley- The hotel has a “Naughty but Nice” package. Sounds fun right? This offer includes accommodation in a Jacuzzi suite with a king bed, sparkling wine, oysters, a tempting gift to your room, and a complimentary in-house movie.

Hotel Windsor, Melbourne- Lucky in Love is the name of their package. You can get up to 45% off in a full rate. The package is composed of king bed, room service breakfast for two, chocolate dipped strawberries and a bottle of Sparkling Rose on arrival.

Four Seasons Hotel- This will give you the perfect view of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Your unit will be surrounded by candles and rose petals, and you will be served with champagne, oyster and trout suckling pig and chicken, as well as a delicious chocolate and strawberry-themed dessert. You will get up to 25 percent discount on some packages.

Secret Hotel Deal, Sydney- Spend some exclusive days at the hotel in Sydney's CBD. The secret here is that the rates are very low and convenient. You can only get a room through early bookings. And that is also only the time that you will see the hotel.

Other hotels that are advisable to visit are Sea Temple Cove in Queensland, Park Hyatt and Como Hotel in Melbourne, Radisson Plaza Hotel in Sydney, Rydges South Bank in Brisbane and Hotel Grand Chancellor in Adelaide.

Image reference: http://hangrightpolitics.com/wp-content/uploads/2006/12/07sydney2.jpg