GLAMPING NEAR NINGALOO REEF
Set up camp in a luxurious wilderness tent right next door to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia. Wake up to a perfectly prepared outback brekkie before jumping into the water to snorkel with turtles and manta rays. Dive in at the right time, and you may find yourself floating next to hulking, yet graceful and friendly, whale sharks. Spend the afternoon sipping a delightful Chenin Blanc from the nearby Margaret River region as you picnic among the picturesque sand dunes.
WATCH THE PENGUIN PARADE ON PHILLIP ISLAND
Situated about 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island is a conservationist's haven, where hundreds of species of birds dwell along the rocky shorelines. Yet the penguins get the most attention here. Every evening at sunset, the world's smallest penguins waddle their way back to shore after a day of fishing in Australia's calm, clear waters. You can see them in their natural habitat from the main viewing area at Summerland Beach, which has tiered seating that yields 180-degree elevated views of the penguins on parade. Be sure to pay close attention as photography of these cute little critters is unfortunately not permitted. Not to worry though, the memories you'll make here will last a lifetime.
ATTEND A MATCH AT MELBOURNE CRICKET GROUND
Wickets, nurdles and zooters, oh my! Cricket may not be prevalent in the United States, but in Australia it's one of the top spectator sports. And where better to watch Aussies' national pastime than at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the largest cricket stadium by capacity in the world. Even if you have no idea what's going on during the game, the stadium itself is a sight to behold. Known simply as "The G," it holds just over 100,000, making it the largest stadium in the Southern Hemisphere.
GO HOT AIR BALLOONING IN BYRON BAY
Located at Australia's easternmost point is enchanting Byron Bay, a laid-back destination that beguiles visitors with beautiful white-sand beaches and a cool, hippie-like vibe. Byron Bay is also one of the world's premier hot air ballooning destinations. On any given day, you can see a half-dozen or so balloons soaring overhead. But don't just be a bystander of this colorful display, jump in and take off! Whether it's a romantic two-person ride or a larger group of up to 13, you can float gently above what is known as the "Rainbow Region," which offers resplendent views of the never-ending ocean to the east, the Mount Warning volcano towering over the horizon to the north and the Great Dividing Range mountains spanning seemingly forever into the distance to the west.
CLIMB THE SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE
There are many ways to experience the vibrant Sydney Harbour, including yacht tours and sipping cocktails at trendy waterside bars. But the most unique, most unforgettable and most daring is to see it from above...high above. Led by a certified guide, you'll slowly but surely climb through the arches of the immense bridge (nicknamed the "Coathanger"), while learning stories about its impressive 80-plus-year history. When you reach the summit, 440 feet above sea level, you'll be able to soak up incredible panoramas as far as the eye can see.
STAY AT A LUXURY HOTEL
While the personalized service and the VIP bonus amenities at these SELECT Hotels & Resorts are marvelous, it's the views-of the Opera House and Harbour in Sydney, and of Fitzroy Gardens and the Parliament House in Melbourne-that truly make your stay unforgettable.
