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Australia is a vast land of many contrasting features, from rugged mountains and rainforests to spectacular coastal scenery and desert plains. With cities and towns of every description, beaches, shopping, nightlife, countryside, national parks, and history, it has something for everyone. If you have a month and want to experience a good mix of Australian life and attractions, the following trip might appeal.

Start in subtropical Brisbane, a city of some 1.8 million people. There's good shopping in Queen Street Mall. See the two buildings that remain from Brisbane's convict past: the Old Commissariat Stores next to the river and the Old Windmill at nearby Spring Hill. Roma Street Parklands are worth a visit as are the botanic gardens. Walk across the river to South Bank and visit the arts precinct with its museum, library, art galleries, and performing arts complex. South Bank has a large swimming area and artificial beach, as well as many fine restaurants.

Take a one hour drive down an eight lane highway to the world famous Gold Coast. Soak up the sun, sand and surf, choose a place for dinner from many hundreds of restaurants and then hit the night clubs. Visit the theme parks: Dreamworld, Movieworld and Seaworld. Another must-see is the amazing Ripley's Believe It or Not display in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Don't forget to climb Q1, the world's tallest residential tower and take in the view. The southern end of the Gold Coast is quite picturesque. Look out for dolphins near the mouth of the Tweed River at high tide.

Once you've recovered from all this, head to Byron Bay. The view from the lighthouse is quite spectacular. Sit on the nearby grass slope and watch the kids surf' the slope on sheets of cardboard while wild goats look on. Further down the coast is Coffs Harbour. Stay at Pacific Towers and enjoy the panoramic ocean views. Take a beach walk and then stroll along the causeway to Muttonbird Island.

Next, head to one of the world's great harbor cities: Sydney. A good place to stay in Sydney is Manly. It has a range of accommodation overlooking the surf beach. Take a twenty minute ferry ride to the city so you don't have to worry about parking. Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge and visit the Opera House. Go for a harbor cruise before taking a walk around town. The Rocks is a fascinating old historical area originally inhabited by convicts when Sydney was a convict town.

A few hours' drive down the Hume Highway will bring you to Canberra, the national capital.

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