Sorry I can't remember - but there won't be many anyway . We went to a huge winery and 2 gorgeous small ones from 1850-60 , also to whispering wall and had lunch at a lovely winery . Hahndorf is nice to see - the German influence in the Barossa .

Good suggestions!!!! I also want to see these places. :-)

Thank you Northie.

Hi tripplanner001, I just wanted to add something. Of all the best things to do in Perth, visiting the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is definitely on top of the list. Don't skip it. :)

Just an FYI that getting to the Aquarium on public transport from the CBD is a bit of a trek, involving both train and bus. The Aquarium is located near Hillary's Boat Harbor.

It's certainly doable though, and a good way to see a bit of residential Perth en route - I have fond memories of taking the train to Warwick station and then connecting to a bus to Hillary's on the day before we left Perth for good. I counted eight parks between Warwick and Hillary's - one the things I miss most about Perth - all the fabulous parks.

While nice enough, the Aquarium doesn't even make my top ten list for Perth, but you might feel differently.

Forgot to mention up thread that the Perth Mint might be of some interest, and easy to get to as its in the CBD.

The Perth Mint - Buy Australian Gold, Silver & Platinum Collector Coins

Thank you Marie and Melnq8.

Hey, Melnq8, I see your point. But I think I would definitely be more interested in snorkeling with sharks in AQWA than the Perth Mint. We just have different interests - and that's ok. :)

tripplanner001 - you are very welcome. :)

Our international flights are booked (flash sale on Qantas yesterday), which has us looking at the itinerary once again. It looks like concluding our trip on Fraser Island won't be realistic given flight times between Hervey Bay and Sydney (we are flying out of Sydney back home to the States). Our thinking is shifting to Noosa or North Stradbroke Island right now. Some of the hinterland areas in SE Queensland look appealing too. We're looking for a place where we could get out of the city for 2-3 days, do some hiking and enjoy nature, and easy distance to an airport with morning flights to Sydney. Given our interests, would you recommend one over the other? Thanks.

Not being too far from the airport is going to be a key consideration, so you don't miss the flight to Sydney, then your onward connection. The road between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast can be dreadful. On the other hand you could have a good run. The area around Maleny and Montville is lovely. Very picturesque with walking, waterfalls, loads of cafes and shops and B&Bs, guesthouses etc. We stayed at the Spotted Chook in Montville not that long ago and loved it. Maleny has a more 'real' town feel whereas Montville is very touristy. The coastal area north of Brisbane is gorgeous too. You'd need to allow lots of time for the drive to Brisbane airport and avoid peak hour, Sunday afternoon etc.

Another area you might like is around Tamborine Mountain and Lamington National Park. You could do some walking and also visit parts of the coast. There is a good walk around the headland at Burleigh Heads with great views. You could fly from the Gold Coast airport to Sydney. I think bearing in mind you need to get to an airport, the hinterland around the Gold Coast might make more sense. Check flights though, I'm guessing more flights out of Brisbane than the Gold Coast.

Kay

Thanks Kay. I will take a closer look at your suggestions.

Clare valley accommodation
 

Hi Tripplanner,

Thorn Park - by the vines - on the island - in the city - luxury regional South Australian accommodation - by the vines

Thought of you yesterday, when a friend & I were discussing our stay at the gorgeous Thorn Park Country House, some years ago. The hospitable & charming David & Michael have expanded their offerings - and I think your group would enjoy “ Thorn Park By the Vines” In Sevenhill. And very likely their city place, too.

I know you don’t drive, but think a chat with these chaps would come up with a solution.

Thanks Bokhara. We wound up making a reservation at Lanzarac Country Estate in the Barossa a few weeks ago. Will keep in mind for next time. Will you be participating in the Vivid events? We hope to join in on it someday.

Vivid is great fun. Schedule your next trip for mid-year.

Hi TP,thinking about a similar trip in March. What’s your current draft itinerary? I have FF tix on hold until tomorrow.

Hi Ann. Good seeing you here. Our itinerary is as follows:

DCA - DFW - SYD - PER
Perth - 4 nights
PER - ADL
Adelaide - 2 nights
Kangaroo Island - 3 nights
Barossa Valley - 2 nights
ADL - BNE
Brisbane - 3 nights
Noosa - 2 nights
MCY - SYD - DFW - DCA

This will be our fourth visit to Australia, although all these will be new destinations for us. Happy to share any information that may be helpful to you.