Just a few quick tips from someone who has traveled solo to Oz twice in the last 2 years.

May 2004: First trip was a 6 day trip to Sydney (due to UAL's 45,000 mile offer!!). Absolutely loved it, there is something for everyone.....beaches, culture, city sights. Take the ferries all around the harbour, go to Manly and Bondi Beaches just for the scenery! I couldn't wait to get back.....

Feb 2006: Went to Melbourne and visited cousins, who took me to Dandedongs (great views, really amazing trees, felt like you were a million miles from the City). We then drove out to the Spa Country (Bendigo, Castlemaine, Daylesford) about an hour outside of Melbourne. Reminded me of Northern California's wine country....very similar landscape. Bendigo was charming with lots of Victorian architecture. Gave you a good feel for how many non-city Australians live.

I spent just a day in Melbourne, didn't like it as much as Sydney....but probably because it didn't have the stunning physical beauty of the harbour. I'm sure I would have like it with more time there.

Went back to Sydney for 3 days and loved it just as much the 2nd time around.

Next trip will get to the Great Ocean Road, Philips Island, St. Kilda, etc. around Melbourne.....then maybe on to Great Barrier Reef and Whitsundays.

Enjoy....OZ is a fabulous country!