Maybe this question should be reversed.  What's NOT extraordinary about Hamilton Island?  I am going to tell you below, so keep reading.  But first things first.  If you haven't heard of Hamilton Island or the Whitsunday Islands you are in for an absolute treat and will be glad that I introduced you.  Celebrities like Oprah, Taylor Swift, Leonardo DiCaprio and many others love this paradise.  Flocking to the tropical oasis to escape the everyday.  This island is not just a haven for celebs, however, it's also very popular with all vacationers.  Whether it's an everyday getaway, honeymoon, anniversary or milestone celebration, family vacation, friendmoon and more!  "Hamo" (as the locals refer to it) has something for everyone in many budget ranges. 

The saying goes a "picture is worth a thousand words" so several pictures should be worth several thousand words.  Right?  I may not know that many words but I would venture that between all of us we can come up with some amazing descriptors, emotions, and ideas.  Since this island in the Whitsundays is so stunningly picturesque I'm going to use more photos instead of words for this post.  Let's start with the video below (courtesy of Visit Queensland).  Click the "Read More" link to satisfy your curiosity and get ready for incredible "eye candy".

Fraser Island, Australia (World Heritage listed) is the largest sand island in the world.  That's right, the entire island is made of sand.  Don't let that fool you though, it's also one of the most diverse islands.  From just over 100 freshwater lakes, lush rainforests, a 120km beach highway, rugged terrain and natural beauty everywhere you turn, you are guaranteed to enjoy a visit here. 

I recently spent some time on Fraser Island for the very first time and was pleasantly surprised, not realizing how stunning this island actually was.  Located off the Sunshine Coast, and just south of the Great Barrier Reef, a visit to Fraser Island is a must for nature, culture and history enthusiasts.  We stayed at the lovely Kingfisher Bay Resort, which is a 4-star eco-tourism, yet full-service resort and a great choice for tourists who still want all the comforts and modern amenities.

48 hours doesn't seem like a lot of time, however, there are an abundance of activities you can do in 2 days by planning well, and in advance.  If you had only 48 hours to spend in the vibrant city of Sydney what would you do to make the most of your time?  A very valid question for vacationers on a time crunch, or those just passing through.  We are here to help make it easier for you to do just this.

I recently spent a very short 24 hours in Sydney and of course it was not nearly enough time, but happy for the opportunity to do what I was able to fit in, quite a bit in fact.

Sydney is the most well-known city in Australia.  What comes time mind?  Sydney harbour, Sydney Bridge, the world famous Opera House and so much more!  Located in New South Wales,  it's a bustling capital and the largest city in the nation.  Sydney is also the main gateway to the country "down under".  Most international flights, and well as cruise ships, arrive and depart from Sydney.  And many vacations, tours and holidays will at least include a stop in the vibrate city, if not start or end there.

Whether you begin or end in Sydney, click "read more" for some of my "top picks" to introduce and welcome you to Australia, or say goodbye in true Aussie style.