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Globus Spectacular Australia with the Historic Ghan Train & Southern Lights Special Departure with Fiji(PQ1E)

24 Days from Melbourne to Coral Coast 
The right vacation to Australia can easily transport you to another state of mind, especially if it includes a wetland cruise on Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu National Park, a glass-bottom-boat tour at the Great Barrier Reef, a scenic cruise on Sydney Harbour, and many other exciting modes of transportation. The most moving experience on this grand tour of Australia, however, is an overnight rail journey on the legendary The Ghan Train—an exhilarating crossing from South Australia through the heart of the Australian Outback. A stop to see an amazing Outback sunrise in Marla offers the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and imagination. As you venture in every direction on this encompassing tour of Australia—including untamed Tasmania—you’ll also be moved by big-city lights, Red Center sunsets, growling Tasmanian devils, and calm, cuddly koalas. All aboard for an above-and-beyond adventure through the “Land Down Under.”

Spend an extra night in Hobart for the chance to witness Mother Nature cast her magical aurora australis (southern lights) across the night sky of Tasmania—one of the best places on earth to see this heavenly light show. Includes two evening excursions with a Local Expert to learn how the aurora australis differs from the northern lights (aurora borealis). Enjoy warm drinks and treats and learn how to take the perfect photograph of the lights dancing across the horizon.

Your last stop on this incredible journey doesn’t have to be Sydney. Add three nights in Fiji to your tour of Australia to soak up the fun and sun of the Coral Coast as well as the genuine warmth of the islanders.

Itinerary (2024)

Day 1ARRIVE IN MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
 G’day– Welcome To Melbourne! Your hotel room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule flights to arrive by 3pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (D)
Day 2MELBOURNE
 Toast Of The Town Today’s sightseeing tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful Fitzroy Gardens, then drive past the lush Botanic Gardens. You’ll discover the city’s differing architectural influences as you see the Victorian Arts Centre and other buildings of significance. Before returning to your hotel, indulge in a special high tea featuring mouth-watering treats, specialty teas, coffee, and a glass of champagne. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional excursion this evening to see the world-famous Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. Experience the magic of little penguins returning home at sunset to one of the largest penguin colonies in Australia. Watch as these beloved fairy penguins waddle from the ocean to their burrows in the sand around you. You’ll get up close and personal from the special Penguins Plus grandstand.
Day 3MELBOURNE
 Cosmopolitan Cool Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s passionate food and wine scene or walk along Chapel and Brunswich Streets, famous for great shopping. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Take a trip out of town to sample award-winning wines in the Yarra Valley or drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road to see the “Twelve Apostles.” This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
Day 4MELBOURNE–HOBART
 On The Waterfront Fly to Hobart, Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian devil. As the second oldest of Australia’s state capitals, Hobart has a wild convict past and a rich history still evident in its beautifully restored Georgian buildings and colonial cottages. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant. (B,D)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS Join your Tour Director for a walk in Hobart’s waterfront district. See beautiful historic buildings and hear wonderful stories about the hard-working convicts, explorers, and entrepreneurs that built this city. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a historic local pub that is full of wonderful memorabilia and features local seafood and produce.
Day 5HOBART. EXCURSION TO THE TASMAN PENINSULA
 Fire in the Sky Travel to the remote and rugged Tasman Peninsula. Make stops at the scenic blowhole, Devil’s Kitchen, and Tasman Arch coastal formations. Visit Port Arthur Historic Site, which began housing convicts in the 1830’s. Then visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo to see the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial. See a devil feeding presentation and learn how the Unzoo is helping save the endangered devils. Stroll the bushland trail and see kangaroos, cheeky parrots, wallabies, echidnas, and nearly 100 bird species. Your admission helps preserve the Tasmanian devil. Return to Hobart and enjoy a [LF] special adventure this evening. (B,L)

LOCAL FAVORITE
HEAVENLY SIGHTS Tonight, enjoy an excursion with a Local Expert for the chance to view the Southern Lights (aurora australis). Learn how the Southern Lights differ from the Northern Lights (aurora borealis) and hear stories about the significance of the “Fire in the Sky” to the Australian Aboriginal communities. Warm drinks and treats are provided during this special evening. The aurora is most active late at night or early in the morning when the sky is clear and the air chilly. Viewings are scheduled from 7pm-10pm. While the Aurora is frequently seen May through August, it is up to Mother Nature to create the special conditions in order to witness this phenomenon.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT One of the country’s most important heritage sites, Port Arthur will bring to life Australia’s convict history. On your private guided tour, meet some of the people who have passed through this place, walk in their footsteps, and hear their stories. It was not just hardened criminals but women and children who found their way here as well. See 30 historic buildings, ruins, restored homes, and the beautiful heritage gardens.
Day 6HOBART
 Tasmanian Treasures Today is free to explore more of Hobart on your own. This evening, enjoy another chance to view the Southern Lights. Our Local Expert is on hand to answer all your questions, share local insight and give pointers on how to take the perfect photographs of the lights dancing across the sky. Warm drinks and treats are provided. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Hobart with a stroll along the narrow lanes of historic Battery Point, sample fresh fish and chips, or visit the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA).
Day 7HOBART–ADELAIDE
 Sweet Adelaide Today, fly via Melbourne to South Australia’s capital city. Adelaide is home to world-class art, live music, major festivals, must-try restaurants, and sits at the gateway to amazing wineries. Upon arrival, take a brief orientation tour along the wide, tree-lined streets, and well-manicured gardens. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. (B)
Day 8ADELAIDE. EXCURSION TO KANGAROO ISLAND
 The Wild Place Early this morning, depart Adelaide and travel by motorcoach and ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders Chase National Park, a sanctuary for native Australian animals, including kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Stop for a walk on Remarkable Rocks, with stunning views of the sea. Next, visit Admirals Arch, a unique rock formation and home to a colony of New Zealand fur seals. Return to Adelaide late this evening. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS The stunning views of the Australian sea lion colony and the neighbouring coastline make Seal Bay an essential experience on Kangaroo Island. There are no enclosures or cases at Seal Bay. Instead, you will be taken into the heart of the colony on a private tour with a Park Ranger. You’ll learn how these endangered animals hunt, surf, rest, interact with their pups and defend their territory. This is a truly exception wildlife experience not to be missed. Keep your camera handy for some terrific photo ops!
Day 9ADELAIDE–THE GHAN TRAIN
 All Aboard Mid-day departure on the Ghan train for an overnight journey and a unique perspective of the Outback. (B,L,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
NORTHWARD BOUND [LF] The Ghan is an Australian legend and the ultimate journey through the heart of Australia. It takes its name from the pioneering Afghan cameleers who blazed a permanent trail into the “Red Center of Australia” 150 years ago. Sit back and relax as you take in the changing scenery. Enjoy a meal in the restaurant car or a friendly conversation with fellow passengers from around the world in the lounge car. You’ll soon see why this train journey is on every Australians’ bucket list!
Day 10THE GHAN TRAIN–MARLA–ALICE SPRINGS
 Into The Outback This morning you are invited to step off the train in the outback town of Marla. There’s time to stretch your legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback. Take a moment to enjoy the stillness and sip on a steaming mug of coffee and snack on a breakfast sandwich. Reboard your train and get ready for the rest of the day’s adventures, or feel free to hop back into bed! Brunch is served onboard before arriving Alice Springs midday. Upon arrival, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Old Telegraph Station. This evening is at leisure. (BR)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
FLIGHT FOR LIFE The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) was established in 1928 to bring much needed medical care to the residents of the remote Outback. Learn the history of Reverend John Flynn, the founder, and hear the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the RFDS. Through the interactive displays you can experience what it’s like to fly with an RFDS pilot and the issues they have faced from dirt runways, inadequate maps, and more.

Day 11ALICE SPRINGS–ULURU (AYERS ROCK)
 Rock Stars Today, travel through the heart of the Outback. Keep a lookout for red kangaroos, dingoes, camels, and feral horses, known as “Brumbies.” Visit the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological spectacle of some 36 brilliant domes. Tonight, [LF] dinner is served under the sparkling Outback sky. (B,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
HEAVEN & EARTH Your evening begins with canapés and chilled sparkling wine upon a dune top overlooking Uluru. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo and sit down for an unforgettable dining experience. Enjoy a bush tucker inspired menu along with a selection of Australian wines and beers. Afterward, sit back and listen to a star talker decode the southern night sky. Before the end of the evening, you’ll be to locate the Southern Cross, signs of the zodiac, the Milky Way as well as planets and galaxies. From amazing scenery to delicious food and wide-open spaces, it’s sure to be a memorable evening!
Day 12AYERS ROCK–ALICE SPRINGS–DARWIN
 Sunrise & Wheels Up For an unforgettable experience, you may choose to rise early for an optional camel ride to watch the sunrise at Uluru. Later, travel to Alice Springs for your flight to Darwin. (B)

NOTE:
Due to this remote location and limited flights, you may be booked on a connecting flight from Alice Springs to Darwin.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE with an optional sunrise camel ride at Uluru (Ayers Rock). This once-in-a-lifetime experience envelopes you in the magic of early morning at Ayers Rock, where the shades from the emerging sunlight paint the massive stone formation, changing in hue with each second as the sun rises above the Outback. This and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus.
Day 13DARWIN
 Remembrance & Resilience Enjoy an orientation tour of the capital of the Northern Territory. See the elegant colonial architecture of the city’s historic buildings that survived Cyclone Tracey in 1974. Visit the splendid Botanic Gardens, beautiful East Point and spend time at the fascinating Darwin Museum. Tonight, you may wish to join the optional dinner cruise in Darwin Harbour. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT In 1942, more than 188 Japanese aircraft attacked Darwin’s harbour and airfield. It was the first and largest foreign attack ever mounted on Australia. At the Darwin Museum, hear first-hand accounts from the men and women who survived the horror of that morning, learn about the Top End’s role in WWII through interactive displays, take a walk through the lush garden to see military vehicles, or climb to the top of the gun emplacement to check out the 9.2’ gun that it houses.
Day 14DARWIN. EXCURSION TO KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
 Picturing History Journey to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park and a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE Site. The park is home to exceptional natural beauty and a unique biodome. Take a scenic cruise and then explore ancient Aboriginal rock petroglyphs at Nourlangie Rock and learn more about the history of the area at the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Return to Darwin late this evening. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Cruise the unspoiled waterways of the Yellow Water Billabong. Enjoy incredible scenery with the opportunity to spot water buffalo and an abundance of bird species such as Whistling Ducks, Magpie Geese, and Sea Eagles. Keep an eye out for crocodiles basking on the banks or even swimming alongside your boat. NOTE: During the wet season (December through April), it can be difficult to spot crocodiles in the wild.
Day 15DARWIN–CAIRNS
 Aussie Adventures Today, fly to Cairns, “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.” Check-in to your Cairns hotel for a 3-night stay. Cairns is known for its mild winters, great nightlife and plenty of fun things to see and do. Why not explore the Cairns Night Markets whose vendors sell a vast array of souvenirs, delicious foods, and the work of local artisans and designers. (B)

NOTE:
Due to this remote location and limited flights, you may be booked on a connecting flight from Darwin to Cairns.
Day 16CAIRNS. EXCURSION TO THE OUTER GREAT BARRIER REEF
 Below The Surface Prepare for the experience of a lifetime when you board a catamaran and cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore this underwater world that is a brilliant kaleidoscope of coral and sea life. Return to Cairns late this afternoon. Your evening is at leisure. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
BUCKET LIST. CHECK! The only living structure on Earth that can be seen from space, the Great Barrier Reef is a masterpiece of Mother Nature. Comprising over 3,000 individual reefs and spanning over 135,135 miles (350,000 square kilometres), your day at the Reef will be one to remember. After your scenic catamaran cruise, the day is yours to explore the Reef how you like. Choose to snorkel amid a dazzling array of fish and coral, take a semi-submersible watercraft tour, attend an informative presentation by a marine biologist, or just relax and enjoy the serenity of your surroundings.
Day 17CAIRNS
 Ticket To Paradise A full day at leisure in this tropical paradise. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE For a truly amazing experience, consider an optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. You may also wish to take a 4 wheel-drive excursion into the Daintree Rainforest, stroll Cairn’s famous Esplanade home to shops and art galleries, or just sit back and relax at your resort’s pool. You can also cool off in the man-made Cairns Esplanade Lagoon; go for a swim, stick to the shore and build a sandcastle, or take a dip at night in the glowing water, lit by underwater lights. These and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
Day 18CAIRNS–SYDNEY
 Koalas, Crocs & Roos, Oh My! This morning, enjoy a special visit to Koala Gardens. Afterward, fly to Sydney, the largest city in Australia. Sydney is home to first-class restaurants, grand shopping arcades, and top tourist attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Taronga Zoo. (B)

LOCAL FAVORITE
NATURAL WONDERS See Australia’s famous animals this morning with a visit to Koala Gardens. See kangaroos, wombats, quokkas, wallabies, gliders and of course the famous salt-water crocodiles. You’ll also have a chance to see koalas doing what they do best – eating, sleeping, and looking adorable. Before your visit ends, you’ll have a [LF] photo taken with a koala – the perfect souvenir!
Day 19SYDNEY
 Spectacular Sydney Explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Visit the Sydney Opera House and travel to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in the city’s botanic gardens for a great photo opportunity and sweeping views of the harbor and Harbour Bridge. Next, visit world-famous Bondi Beach with time to explore on your own. Return to Sydney and enjoy a cruise on Sydney Harbour to see some of the city’s best views. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM The Sydney Opera House is one of the most well-known buildings in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The building was designed by Jorn Utzon, a Danish architect, and was finally completed in 1973, after sixteen years of construction, at a cost of over $100 million dollars. You’ll enjoy a private guided tour of the Opera House and see its interiors and theaters. Hear untold stories, be awed by the acoustics, and learn the history and future of this amazing hall beneath the sails.
Day 20SYDNEY
 Sights & Bites Enjoy a full day at leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow travel companions for a festive farewell dinner. (B,D)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Perhaps join an optional excursion to Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s leading wine-growing regions. You can even climb to the top of Sydney’s Harbour Bridge for amazing views of the city and harbour below or walk in the footsteps of Australia’s early convicts, mischievous gangs, and locals of the past on the Rocks District Pub tour. These and more options are available throughout your tour at MyGlobus. Your Tour Director and your GlobusGO mobile app have all the tips and guidance to enjoy your free time.
Day 21SYDNEY–NADI, FIJI–CORAL COAST
 Island Bound Board your flight and fly to Fiji for three nights in this tropical paradise. Arrive in Nadi and transfer to your resort on the Coral Coast. Composed of more than 300 islands, you are sure to enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and friendly Fijians. From white sandy beaches to tropical rainforests and mountain peaks, there is lot to explore on land as well in the water. Fiji is known as the Soft Coral Capital of the world with the Great Astrolabe Reef surrounding its islands and atolls. An underwater adventure should be high on your to-do list and will not disappointThe remainder of your day is at leisure. (B)
Day 22CORAL COAST
 Sand & Sees This morning, cruise up the magnificent Sigatoka River to visit an authentic Fijian village. Return to your resort where the remainder of the day is yours to explore the beautiful beaches or perhaps sample some local cuisine. (B,L)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Aboard a custom-built safari jet boat, you’ll be transported deep into the heart & soul of Fiji. As you journey up the river, hear the history of the region. Children from the villages that line the river and wave as you cruise past. When you reach the village, you are given a warm welcome by the villagers and then are escorted to the village Chief’s bure (house) or to the community hall, Take part in a kava ceremony, then tour the village before sitting down to a traditional Fijian lunch. Your visit ends with traditional Fijian singing and dancing. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to join in! After heartfelt goodbyes, board your jet boat for the return trip. It’s sure to be a highlight of your time in Fiji. Bula!
Day 23CORAL COAST
 Living on Island Time Today is at leisure. (B)

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Make sure to check the daily activities offered at your resort. You may wish to take a dip in the pool, enjoy a Fijian handicraft demonstration, spend some time in the water with kayaks or paddleboards, or simply enjoy an amazing sunset with a cool drink. Your Local Host will have suggestions for sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Day 24CORAL COAST–NADI
 Until We Meet Again! Transfer from the Coral Coast to the Nadi International Airport today where your vacation ends. (B)

Included Globus Meals

Breakfast daily, 7 lunches, 5 dinners

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