Named after evolutionist Charles Darwin, this tropical city on the top end of Australia is a former frontier town with a rough-and-tumble past. Darwin's growth was achieved back in 1871 with the discovery of gold at Pine Creek, and today a number of historic buildings from that era remain. Darwin is also the center of the aboriginal community, the world's oldest culture. From here, you can visit Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage Site renowned not only for its Australian wildlife but Aboriginal rock art.
Discover the Lacepede Islands, a remote and breathtaking archipelago located off the coast of Western Australia. Renowned for their stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity, these islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Experience pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs that make for incredible snorkeling and diving opportunities. The islands are also home to a variety of seabirds, making them a prime location for birdwatching. Whether you're exploring the uninhabited shores, enjoying fishing excursions, or simply soaking in the tranquility of this untouched paradise, the Lacepede Islands offer a unique and unforgettable escape into the heart of Australia's natural wonders. Perfect for those looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the Australian coastline.
Once a pirate haven, Bau Bau is the principal town of the former sultanate of Buton, an ancient Islamic civilization which traces its origins to the goddess Wakaakaa. The hilltop fortress and palace of the former sultans are still intact. The palace is built of teak and houses such relics as the cloth money once used in Buton, a forerunner of the modern banknote. Nirvana Beach is a beachcomber's delight with warm, inviting waters.
Known in colonial times as Celebes, the island of Sulawesi is protected by mountains and walled by thick jungles. Palopo, now a Muslim town, was once the center of the powerful Luwu kingdom. This is the gateway to Indonesia's Torajaland, a fascinating region in the highlands, which includes a traditional village and cliff-side burial sites, with painted wooden tau-taus, or funeral effigies, of their ancestors.
A rare discovery awaits the traveler who ventures onto this remote island of Komodo. Walking through the dense vegetation, hearing and seeing a variety of bird and animal life, you may feel you've landed in another epoch. Indeed, the last vestiges of long-gone dinosaurs survive here, in the form of the legendary, giant lizards called Komodo Dragons.
A rare discovery awaits the traveler who ventures onto this remote island of Komodo. Walking through the dense vegetation, hearing and seeing a variety of bird and animal life, you may feel you've landed in another epoch. Indeed, the last vestiges of long-gone dinosaurs survive here, in the form of the legendary, giant lizards called Komodo Dragons.