Australia Tour Review: Tasmania, Sydney, Port Douglas, Phillip Island, Great Ocean Road, Penguin Parade, Freycinet National Park

We generally prefer experiencing natural beauty over cities, and there were many natural wonders to take in during our three weeks in Australia.  Among the most enjoyable experiences were: (a) an overnight Great Ocean Road tour from Melbourne, which included striking geological formations along the coast as well as a rain forest walk; (b) a day trip to Phillip Island, including the famous "Penguin Parade" along with stops to see a sheep-shearing demonstration and a chance to hand feed tame kangaroos and wallabies; (c) stays in Freycinet and Cradle Mountain National Parks in Tasmania, which were not only beautiful but included opportunities to see Tasmanian Devils, quolls, and other exotic animals up close; (d) snorkeling excursion via sailboat from Port Douglas to the Great Barrier Reef; and (e) a tour of the Sydney Opera House.