CNN Top Marks for Australia, Melbourne, GBR!

From the CNN cable news network last week, they have this headline: "17 best places to visit in 2017" with these highlights "If you haven't yet had a chance to experience Australia's Great Barrier Reef, you might want to book that trip down under sooner than later. Coral across Australia's Great Barrier Reef has suffered its most devastating die-off on record, according to 2016 reports. Fortunately there are some wonderful eco-resorts aiding with conservation efforts. Among our favorites is the private Heron Island, which has its own ecotourism and research station."

Here are more of their highlights that focus on Melbourne: "Those in need of an urban Aussie experience will want to made the trip 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles) south to Melbourne, arguably the country's foodie capital. Not only is it the 2017 host of the World's Best Restaurants Awards. The Economist Intelligence Unit claims it's also the world's most livable city. Which means visitors get treated pretty damn good, too."

Loved our 2014 experience in Australia and have closely followed activities in that area since our visit there. Appreciate those with experiences there sharing more insights, tips and ideas. Tell us more from your successes in Australia!!

Full story at:

http://edition.cnn.com/2017/01/06/travel/best-places-to-visit-in-2017/

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 166,623 views for this posting.

No real surprise there.

We don't need CNN to tell us that Australia is a great place to visit. We are returning for our second visit on February 15, 2017. Our trip will include the GBR as well as the GHAN train from Adelaide to Darwin. Also 24 days on Celebrity out of Sydney.