Allthough Canberra, in the Australian Capital Territory, isn't the spot most tourists flock to when visiting Australia - it is well worth a visit. It is only about a 3 hour drive south of Sydney.

It is a clean, well laid out city with many beautiful building, lakes and parks. And if you can plan a trip in the spring, you will be treated to the annual flower show which rivals anything I have seen in North America. Pictures just don't do it justice - you have to be there.

The city has much to offer but if you want to take a drive out to the coast, there is a whole different experience awating you. We spent a few days a Dolphin Point and enjoyed clean, unspoiled beaches with lots of shells and birdlife to see. Although spring isn't that warm - it is still quite comfortable and there are not lots of people around so you can literaly have a beach to yourself. Be prepared for cool evenings - it may be 28 deg.C in the daytime but get down to 5 deg.C at night.