A holiday in Broome gives a relaxed tropical getaway in a remote domestic location. Gateway to the spectacular Kimberley region and the pearl capital of the continent, tiny Broome on Australia’s North West coast continually surprises visitors with its colour, multicultural population and captivating scenery.
Unique for many reasons, Broome is one of our favourite holiday destinations and attracts thousands of international visitors each year. Huddled against the sapphire seas, hemmed in by the inhospitable Great Sandy Desert to the east and the wild Kimberley to the north, Broome is a veritable oasis in a land of harsh extremes.
The stunning 22km sweep of white-sand beach fringing Roebuck Bay known as Cable Beach is a magnet for photographers recording idyllic sunsets, beach life, camel rides and the unique lunar phenomenon known as Staircase to the Moon.
Originally a base for pearling boats, today Broome still produces world leading pearls although the harvesting methods have moved on from the original diving techniques. Today, visitors can discover how the beautiful South Sea pearls are produced in award winning farms, and take up the opportunity to purchase stunning souvenirs at many locations throughout the region.
Other attractions are the open air cinema where patrons lay in deck chairs and experience the latest release blockbusters in the world’s oldest operating open air cinema. Walk in dinosaurs’ footprints or examine Dutch Flying Boat wrecks at low tide.
Broome is a gastronomic destination for those craving uniquely Australian cuisine with an international touch. Regional delicacies such as pearl meat, barramundi, kangaroo, crocodile and buffalo are served in simple ethic restaurants in Chinatown, or five star resorts overlooking Cable Beach. With a wide range of visitors from backpackers, to families or honeymooners, the nightlife has something to offer, but always in a relaxed, casual style reflecting Broome’s tropical atmosphere.
Just south of the equator, the town enjoys warm sunny days and balmy nights, and the lunar pull produces some of the widest tidal fluctuations on earth.
Broome fun facts
A section of cable Beach is set aside as ‘clothing optional’
The Argyle Diamond Mine in the Kimberley, is the world's largest diamond mine
Broome is 2350 km north of Perth
PICTURESQUE AND CAPTIVATIONAL CENTRAL AUSTRALIA
Friday 15th August 2008
Travel Counsellor: Charlene Lush
Central Australia is so picturesque and captivating, it grabbed my attention before my flight touched down. Rich in colour, history and culture! I was so excited to be travelling to such a diverse part of the country. Flying over the bare dry land I was surprised with how green the trees and shrubs where. I think we all forget what Australia has to offer as we all get caught up in today’s hustle and bustle of life.
On arrival I joined my group with APT and set off for our afternoon tour of Alice Springs. Our tour included Anzac Hill which has outstanding views overlooking the West MacDonnell Rangers, the Old Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Service, the School of Air and then onto the Mbantua (Aboriginal Cultural Museum and Gallery) home to a private collection of Aboriginal Artefacts.
Over the course of six days I managed to walk about 32kms. I had never felt so relaxed and energised just by the fresh air and peacefulness the area has to offer. I walked the base and watched... view full story
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