Friday 5/18 - Live Australia Chat with John Vlahides of Lonely Planet

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Matt on Facebook:

"Where are the best surf spots to go to?"

Answer from John:

"The capital of surf culture is the Gold Coast, but there's great surfing across Australia, so base your trip around another activity as well."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Jonathan on Facebook:

"John, for someone who has never been to Australia. What are the key unique places to visit?"

Answer from John:

"The thing about Australia, it's full of surprises; until I've seen every locale, I can't answer your question. Every place I see strikes me as better than the last!"

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Lainey on Facebook:

"I'll be in Melbourne for work soon and am hoping to stay for the weekend. What should I consider doing around Melbourne?"

Answer from John:

"The definitive weekend experience around Melbourne: Drive around the Great Ocean Road."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Mark on Facebook:

"Hi John! As an American, what was the biggest cultural difference you experienced while in Australia?"

Answer from John:

"As an American, I was most impressed by everyone's genuine open-heartedness, the complete lack of road rage, and people's willingness to stay up late drinking!"

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Stephen on Facebook:

"Hey John, I've never been to Australia, but have always been intrigued by Perth and it remoteness – what’s there to do out there for a first time visitor?"

Answer from John:

"The thing to see in Perth is it's beaches; you'll never see more spectacular beaches."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Julia on Facebook:

"Is it true that there are a lot of poisonous snakes and big spiders in Australia?"

Answer from John:

"Australia has the world's most poisonous animals -- snakes, jellyfish, etc --- however, everybody I know has come back alive and happy."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Ted on Facebook:

"Hi John! What is the best place to see kangaroos in their natural habitat? Also, which airlines do you fly when heading to Australia from the states? Thanks again for doing this."

Answer from John:

"The best place to see kangaroos in their natural habitat is Kangaroo Island, off the coast of Adelaide. Here's a link to my trip there: Kangaroo Island: a haven for Australian wildlife - YouTube"

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Eric on Facebook:

"I'm interested in outdoor adventures in Australia. What tour guides or regions or specific activities would you recommend to really see the Australian countryside."

Answer from John:

"If you want to see countryside, go to Tazmania in (their) springtime. However, understand that the center of Oz is essentially desert, not verdant countryside."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Sara on Facebook:

"What's your advice for keeping young kids entertained in Australia? Any spots we need to check out?"

Answer from John:

"To entertain kids in Sydney, you can't beat Luna Park; an old-fashioned amusement park like Coney Island overlooking Sydney Harbor. You don't have to leave Sydney to go to the beach. There's one in this video near the mouth of the Harbor: http://youtu.be/10Ros-WKync Ride the ferry to Luna Park, and climb Sydney Harbour Bridge."

[TravelerBen_ll]

Question from Sarah on Facebook:

"Hi John, I have heard a lot about Australia's fantastic music scene. Which are some of the best outdoor venues you would recommend checking out?"

Answer from John:

"Of course Sydney has the Opera House, but Melbourne has a more vibrant underground music scene. It's the arts capital of Australia."