BKD

Margo, Melnq8: just when I think I have this worked out.....

So No to Tasmania? Looks great. Ugh, I'm so confused. Maybe we should just go to Barossa and drink a lot of wine and forget about the rest....

Melnq8

Tasmania IS great, but not as an add-on to an already too short trip, which already has commitments on either end.

The first time I went to TAS I spent 10 days. The second time I went to TAS I spent two weeks. Next time I'll probably spend three weeks. Yes, three weeks for one little old Aussie state.

I just don't see the point of flying hither and yon when one has no time to properly experience hither and yon.

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best solution.

Visit the place you're already flying halfway across the world to see. Let logic be your guide

BKD

Consulted with a Aussie here in the States. Very nice guy named Jonathan Campbell found on the Internet aussietripadvisor.com. I absolutely swear I don't have any connection with him whatsoever, but he was very kind and knowledgeable so I'm giving him a plug.

Bottom line is he agreed with pretty much everyone on this board. Stay in South Australia. Having more than consensus, we are now booked!

Going straight to Adelaide. One night there. Dinner at Penfold's Magill (is it worth it?) Next two nights in Adelaide Hills to visit with our daughter. Back to Adelaide for one night. Barossa Valley at The Louise for one night. Rawnsley Park Station for two nights. Sydney for three nights. Done!

Cannot thank everyone enough for your input. You all have been EXTREMELY helpful.

Melnq8

>

At $185 to $350 a pop, it wouldn't be for me, but it might be for you. I'm sure it's lovely and posh, but good food isn't hard to find in Australia.

Sounds like a wonderful trip, do report back when you return.

Melnq8

FWIW our favorite meal in SA was at Skillogalee, in the Clare Valley:

http://www.skillogalee.com.au/visit_us

We loved Penfold's Grandfather Port, but discovered that local bottle shops sold it for $25 less than the cellar door.

Watch out for DCC at The Woolshed Restaurant in Rawnsley Park -
hopefully they no longer do it, but it sure p**sed us off.

(the practice of charging one's credit card in their country's currency instead of local currency without giving the consumer a choice - their bank profits, not you). Just say no.

huddoshols

Agree with skipping Tasmania. I could have 3 nights just in Launceston. The " trouble" with restaurants here in Adelaide and regions is we have so many of a high standard, we are spoilt for choice. And that doesn't mean just high end. For me, Magill Estate wouldn't be on my list here. And yes I have been. But it really depends on your interests. Maybe Jonathon suggested Magill Estate and The Louise? Whatever you choose you will have a great time here. The weather that time of year is normally enjoyable.

BKD

Huddoshols, do you mind making restaurant recommendations in Adelaide area, including Adelaide Hills? High end or any end. We prefer going where the locals go. That will be most helpful. Thanks!