Crazy as it sounds, some visitors to Australia do expect to find kangaroos hopping down the main streets. But in fact, Australians in the cities are very urbanized and so have devised ways of getting an adventure rush no matter where they are in our great land. Whether in the city, he bush or the outback, the national thirst for extremes results in a wealth of exciting experiences. Here are just a few:
What could be extreme about a visit to Sydney Harbour? It is one of the world's most beautiful locations, certainly, with the astonishing vista of the harbor itself, the Sydney Opera House, the skyline, and of course, Sydney Harbour Bridge. Even locals find it a daily wonder. But a place where you can unleash your inner adventurer? Look no further than the bridge itself.
Newcomers to Sydney can't fail to be impressed with this soaring wonder that arches over one of the world's most beautiful bays. In the past, bridge workers were often envied for the views they had to themselves as they worked along the upper span. But no more since 1988, the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Climbers are guided up catwalks and ladders to the immense upper span, 134 meters above the water below. The 360 degree views of the city and the harbor are breathtaking and leave the climber with a stunning sense of achievement. So popular is this adventure that since the tours started, two million people, including celebrities, have braved the span. The climb takes 3 hours and is open to a surprising number of candidates.
Some medical conditions may prove a barrier and you must be over 1.2 meters tall, but the bridge has been climbed by the hearing impaired, some people with disabilities and a one-hundred-year-old woman! Basically you need to be fit, strong and co-ordinated enough to sustain moderate physical activity for the duration of the climb. You can even tackle the climb if you are less than 24 weeks pregnant. You can't take a camera, but Climb Leaders will capture your moment on top of the world anyway, and the climb includes a complimentary group photo by the time you finish you will all have bonded anyway!
If gazing down on the wonders of Sydney Harbour don't offer enough apeal, head for the outback and meet some of Australia's most unusual immigrants.
Camels are among the most successful migrations to Australian shores, brought here by Afghan migrants more than a century ago. The animals have adapted so well to the Australian outback that they have become a tourist attraction. Camel safaris operate in wilderness areas and are a rewarding way to experience the outback. The safaris are led by Australian wildlife, cultural and environmental experts to ensure that tourists learn as they ride.
The camel is called the ship of the desert' and this is usually thought to refer to its capacity to carry water in its hump but in fact there is another good reason. The camel is also one of the world's most tireless pack animals, and on the average four day safari, it carries everything its rider needs, such as water, food and sleeping gear. No back up vehicles follow the tour and despoil the pristine desert wilderness, because none are needed. You don't need to be an expert camel rider but you do need to be reasonably physically fit, as many first timers prefer to walk occasionally while they are getting used to the saddle!
Ecologically speaking, Australia has some of the most glorious nature destinations in the world. But it's not all sight seeing and hotel hopping. If you ant something really different, does bush walking, spear throwing and living off the land sound like a plan to you?
Eco Tourism is a big thing right now, and Australian ecotour leaders like Odyssey Tours and Safaris have the ecotour of a lifetime. It's a non-stop adventure through Australia's `top end' These tours are taken at the best time of the year to explore places like Kakadu, in August and October. This is the Australian Spring, and the `top end' is blooming.
These tours also take in the cultural life of Australia's native peoples, the Aborigines, who have lived in this amazing land for 45,000 years. On these tours, you will have the chance to meet the local tribes, an unforgettable experience in itself, and learn ancient arts like spear throwing and basket weaving from the tribal elders.
You'll be living off the land, swimming in natural waterholes called `billabongs', viewing ancient Aboriginal rock art and singing songs around a roaring campfire. So what are you waiting for? Australia has a wealth of once-in-a-lifetime experiences waiting for you!
Oh, and those kangaroos and beaches? Sure, we got those too.