PORTS OF CALL - Australia / New Zealand
Adelaide, Australia
This easy-going capital of South Australia is your portal to every big outdoor adventure you could dream up. Trek the raw, rugged Outback in all its aboriginal glory. Hop over to Kangaroo Island, one of the world's best places to view wildlife, hence the name. Then hit the wine trail with glass in hand! Adelaide is in the thick of the country's finest vineyards. Don't feel like venturing out? The city center offers a wide array of excitement from architecture and art galleries to gourmet goodies. And if you happen to be in town during one of the many festivals, you don't want to miss out. People come from all over the world to participate in the funtivities. So make sure to be one of them!
Don't Miss
South Australia exports 70% of the country's wine so make a plan to visit a few vineyards while you're here. Luckily, Adelaide is surrounded by most of them. The nearby Barossa Valley is home to some 60 wineries alone. Most of them have tastings so get ready for a cork-popping party you'll never forget!
Sporting Adventures
There's an endless array of outdoor activities you can take part in, including biking, golfing and swimming. But for something a little out-of-the-ordinary, sign up for a nocturnal walk at the Warrawong Sanctuary. The refuge comes alive when the sun goes down, as most of the species are creatures of the night. Bettongs, pottoroos, bandicoots and many, many more await!
Shopping for Bargains
There are shops for ceramics, glass, furniture, woodcrafts, paintings, and iconic Aussie outfits. Who couldn't use an authentic Akubra hat? And if you really want to live large, you'll be glad to know most of the world's most lustrous white opals are mined in Southern Australia, and Adelaide is the best place to buy them.
Local Flavours
Come and watch bitter cocoa beans turn into sweet chocolate bars at Haigh's Chocolates. The shop is only five minutes from the city's center and a mecca of deliciousness for chocolate lovers. Handmade sparkling Shiraz truffles, chocolate-covered ginger slices, and violet creams make great gifts to bring back home - if they'll actually make it that far!
Currency
The local currency used in Adelaide is the Australian dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted. And you can use your ATM card at banks around the country as long as your card is connected to the international banking network. Travellers cheques are also accepted.