The Heart And Soul Of Australia

When going to Australia, tourist visa holders frequently would want to get to Central Australia. The region is indeed packed with attractions, making it an interesting place for tourists. In fact, it has become very popular now that many people have dubbed it “the heart and soul of Australia”.

One thing that you might not know is that there is, in fact, no area in the country officially called Central Australia. Rather, it is a common designation used by locals in referring to the city of Alice Springs in the Northern Territory and its surrounding areas. Oddly enough, recent calculations have shown that the exact center of the Australian continent lies some 200 kilometers off the south of Alice Springs, making the name still pretty much appropriate. In fact, Alice Springs residents often refer to themselves as Cetralians, further referencing this one.

So what is there to see in Alice Springs? As have been said, there are a lot of attractions that tourists can go and activities that they can get their hands on. The city itself offers many places that you can go to. The Aboriginal Art and Culture Center is the best one to start if you want to appreciate the aboriginal people more. In fact, aside from the center, aboriginal culture is very much celebrated in the city (as is in all of Australia). There are numerous festivals celebrated each year in commemoration of the Aboriginal people.

One place that you would definitely want to go to here, especially if you are bringing the kids along, is the Alice Springs Reptile Center. The sanctuary features the largest reptile collection in the Northern Territory. You will be able to see familiar types here, likes snakes, some unusual ones such as horny devils or the gigantic perentie goanna.

However, the true allure of Central Australia lies in the outskirts of the towns. Here, the large open plains serves as an inviting attractions for tourists to explore. Hiking is the preferred way of travel when going out to see Alice Spring's natural wonders. One of the most popular attractions here is Ayers Rock, located some 300 kilometers from the city. It is frequented by visitors yearly, who tour around with the help of Aboriginal guides. Another famous attraction nearby is the famous Devil's Marbles, with its vast amount of boulder formations.

For car enthusiasts, the Finke George National Park will be your right stop. Here, you will be able to hone your driving as you take on the various off road tracks located in the park. You might also be lucky enough to catch the Finke Desert Race held annually in the region.

And there is yet more to discover in Alice Springs. And after having a great time, you will certainly agree that it indeed is the heart and soul of Australia. 

Sources:
Central Australia Tourism
WikiPedia
Image Sources:
www.wayfaring.info
www.australiantouristpublications.com.au