Page 4 - Travel Advisors of Los Gatos – Winter 2016

WINTE
Three Sisters in the Blue Mountains Thredbo Snowy mountains
Traveling to Australia often inspires must-see lists that include warm-weather activities such as swimming the Great Barrier Reef, surfing the Gold Coast and walkabouts in the Outback. This distant island nation shouldn’t be sold short only as a destination where catching waves and bungee jumping under sunny skies are the biggest attractions. Visiting this adventure-rich
destination during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months provides a distinctively different Down Under experience.
DECK THE HALLS IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
Christmas in July takes on new meaning for visitors to Australia’s Blue Mountains. During June through August, New South Wales’ Blue Mountains are the site of a world-renowned, mid-year Christmas celebration that has become an annual affair dating back to 1980.
Yulefest brings together travelers to sit fireside, convene for roast dinners at the Katoomba guesthouse – the original celebration site, sing Christmas carols in Leura and meet Santa Claus
(or challenge him to karaoke) in Mount Victoria. Aussie dinner theatre is extremely popular, therefore accompanying a meal with a side of murder mystery or “Faulty Towers” is a unique visitor experience.
A particular Yulefest favorite occurs each year in June, drawing locals and travelers. The 23rd annual Blue Mountains Winter Magic Festival will be held June 18, 2016, only a few days preceding Australia’s Winter Solstice. In the town of Katoomba, the main street is open only to pedestrians and attendees are encouraged to dress in costume. The event draws vendors, whose stalls line the streets, and artists,
musicians and dancers. The Winter Magic Festival Parade is a procession of puppeteers, musicians and revelers dressed in colorful festive costumes.
While Yulefest receives a lot of recognition during this time of year, the Blue Mountains boast many more attractions. Three Sisters is a soaring formation of rock that, according to Aboriginal legend, resulted when a tribal witchdoctor turned a trio of siblings to stone. While the legend varies, the magnificence of the peaks is indisputable.
Within the Blue Mountains, travelers will also find the Jenolan Caves, an underground wonderland
Not as well known as its Swiss counterparts, the Australian Alps, located in the country’s southeast region, afford the opportunity to enjoy popular winter activities – Aussie style.
comprising rivers and limestone formations. In addition to adventure caving, bushwalks, children’s and night tours, Jenolan Caves also offers a “Legends, Mysteries & Ghosts” tour. Guests will learn about local legends and hear tales of inexplicable happenings within the caves.
Guides are available for hire or travelers can plan a journey through the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service.
AUSTRALIAN-STYLE ALPS
Not as well known as its Swiss counterparts, the Australian Alps, located in the country’s southeast region, afford the opportunity to enjoy popular winter activities – Aussie style. Home to Australia’s tallest peak, Mount Kosciuszko, which stands 7,310 feet high in the Snowy Mountains, the Alps boast plenty of winter activities including exceptional ski and snowboarding options.
While Mount Kosciuszko reigns as the country’s highest peak, Charlotte Pass Snow Resort is Australia’s highest resort. Known for its natural powder and regular snowfall, Charlotte Pass
is located at 5,791 feet, affording excellent
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