Australia

The newly revised fifth edition includes 368 pages, 100
illustrations, 13 maps, cultural sites and practical
information. American Carl Robinson has made his home in
Australia, the world's oldest and perhaps most unique
continent. His entertaining and intelligent guidebook
gives the traveler a wonderful, and very personalized,
introduction to this enigmatic country. Blessed by a near-
perfect climate, life in Australia has a distinctive pace
and its people are among the most hospitable on earth.
There are real secrets to Australia, and this book
recommends some favorites, with the emphasis on how to
have a good time, covering what to see and how to get
there, from the "Wild West" of the Northern Territory and
the natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to the
vibrant cities, such as Sydney and Melbourne. Many
excerpts from literature, by and about Australians, are
included, along with essays on the idiosyncrasies of
"Aussie" life: the irreverent Aussie vocabulary, pubs,
wine, sports, cinema and the uneasy status of the native
Aborigines. - A new and extensively revised edition -
Special focus on having fun in Australia - Several new
special topics, including an essay on nationhood and the
referendum, the world's biggest celebration of gay pride
and identity-Sydney's annual Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras,
the Great Grain Races, Sydney's Bridge Climb and
Australia's National Musuem in Canberra - New color
photographs reflecting the diversity of Australian life
and culture - Literary excerpts illuminate local culture
and idiosyncrasies - An entertaining, personal book by an
experienced author who knows the country intimately -
Useful and informative maps