Canberra - the best of

Canberra is the national capital of Australia. It is the show place for the Australian government and home for various national government departments. It has a very similar feel and look of the national capitals of Brasilia and Washington. If you are not a national of Australia, New Zealand or hold diplomatic permission to be in Australia, you will need an Australian visa to visit Canberra.

Where is Canberra. Canberra is located in land from the sea between Sydney and Melbourne. It is located in the highlands and can be quite cold in winter and hot in summer.

What to see in Canberra. Being the show case of Australia and national capital it has many museums. The best are the War Memorial (a full day event) covering all the conflicts Australia has been involved in. The displays are world class. The National Arty gallery opposite the War Memorial holds modern pieces. Of note is the famous painting 'Blue Poles' . There is also the Australian Museum and the very strange looking parliament house (mostly built under ground). Just east of the city is the national Botanical gardens which has examples of all Australian flora.

Most visitors like are the numerous parks located around Canberra. These parks are well maintained and allow the visitor to experience Canberra via walking or riding bikes by traveling through the hundreds of linked bike paths.

There are many major brand name restaurants and hotels located throughout Canberra. Book early as there are times throughout the year where these hotels are fully booked.

Ask a local about the local politics. Canberra has had representatives elected from political parties with such names as the 'Deadly Serious Party', the 'Tomato Party' and the 'No Party Party'. Strange but true.

Canberra is a must see due to its beautiful parks and museums.