We are planning a 3 week trip to australia next august, and are considering 8 days in the kimberly. what is the real story about snakes, scorpions, leeches and bugs???? We plan 3 days Syndney, 3 days melbourne, 4-6 days cairns, great barrier reef, any suggestions will be greatly appreciated!! thanks, cathy

Congratulations. <BR>You are going to have an awesome trip, don't worry about a thing. <BR>No actually you may find one particular animal a real pest - that is the Australian Bush Fly. You will quickly learn the famous Ausiie salute, namely continually waving your hand in front of your face. We took some of the strongest stuff we could find here in the States and it did not do a thing. Buy insect repellant when u get there. It helps, but they still want to get to know u. Some people wear a swag man's hat which has corks on strings hanging off the hat in front of your face. <BR>The Kimberly area is Australias best least known area. If you go it will be the highlight of your trip. If you don't go, you will never know what u missed. <BR>Yes there are snakes and other dangerous creatures, but be sensible and you will easily avoid them. If you find anything, give them room. Don't pick up rocks, old logs etc. Make noise walking thru the bush. Wear stout boots. Do as the locals do. <BR>Have fun. And if you are a single young female, watch out for the most dangerous bug of all, The True Blue Aussie Male. <BR>

Cathy, <BR>Make sure you visit the Kimberly. It is a beautifull and magical place. Do not worry about the insects, snakes etc. They are more worried about you and will only get nasty if provoked. Enjoy our country.

Don't worry too much about the snakes etc. they will keep out of your way, but remember if you do see them walk backwards slowly and give them a wide birth as most snakes in Australia are very dangerous. For insects use insect repelent called RID, super strong. If you are going to Melbourne stay in the city and the must does are St Kilda Beach, especially on a sunday the market is great. Chapel street one of the longest shopping streets in the southern hemisphere is a must especially the Jam Factory best Cinemas anywhere, very funky. Shop to death. Myers is also great shopping right in the CBD. Crown casino is huge and well worth a look. Great Hotel if you can afford it. The Dandenongs, Puffing Billy the steam train and Healsville Animal Sanctuary are great especially if you hire a car for the day. Number one restaurant in Melbourne again is Flower Drum but want a cheap eat, go Toorak Road off Chapel Street and eat at Zampellis $13 and you will be rolling out the door. If you want to know anything else about Melbounre just post a reply. Enjoy your trip. <BR>

Hi Cathy, <BR>Forget all stories about creepy crawlies - they are much overdone. Flies are the real hassle. The Kimberleys are true Outback Oz and you will have unforgettable sights quite different from anything you will see elsewhere. Do not expect US style service or accommodation.The motels etc are good but not great. The biggest problem you will have is the heat. Altho August is a great month to go it will probably be well over 30 every day (I don't do Fahrenheit, the rest of the world doesn't you know!!). I presume you are planning an organised tour. If this is your first time in the outback, it is probably the best plan. If, however, you are thinking about hiring a 4WD and exploring on your own, the MOST important thing to do is to make sure you tell the local police where you are going. It is very unforgiving country indeed.The big bonus in August will be our world famous wildflowers! Have fun.