We just received info re: 2006 tours to Australia and and New Zealand. We cannot travel during the optimum season. What's the next best -- June, July or August? Thanks so much.

Hi - What parts of Australia? In northern Australia, Uluru, some outback areas, southern snowfields, June, July and August and are considered optimum season.

If fall in New Zealand (mid-March to mid-June)is an option for you, try going then. We went in April last year and had lovely weather; it only rained once or twice and didn't last long.

If that won't work, I'd go as early in June as possible.

Lee Ann

Australia and New Zealand exhibit a vast range of climatic conditions. As Jun-Aug are the winter months, it would be best to start as far south as possible and move north - unless you're looking to ski.

Do these tour packages give you any room to move? Have you considered independent travel, assuming that would make a difference? Both countries are very easy for DIY travelling.

I'd also recommend independent travelling; you will find Australia as easy to get around in as at home. However, to answer your question: as early in June as you can make it, or as late in August.