Go Down Under And Explore The Beauty And Wonders Of Australia (NAPSA)—A country of con- trasts, Australia offers an eclectic mix of urban sophistication and untouched splendor. Australia’s two largest cities allow visitors to experience the grandeurof the Sydney Opera House and Melbourne’s fine dining. On the opposite side of the spectrum lie the Outback’s rugged beauty and the colorful underwater world of the Great Barrier Reef. Those fascinated by ancient civilizations can explore native Aboriginal culture. Australia is indeed expansive and diverse, and Americanstrav- eling to the “land down under” should rememberthat the journey is no hop, skip and a (kangaroo) jump. Asa result, it is essential to plan carefully to take in as many of Australia’s splendors as possible for a truly memorable, enriching experience. A travel specialist with intimate knowledge of Australia can make a world of difference when planning a vacation half a world away. A travel specialist can organize an itinerary that includes the must-see attractions, such as Sydney’s iconic Harbour Bridge and Uluru Rock, plus a variety of offthe-beaten-path experiences for a more personalized vacation. A specialist can arrange a hot-air balloon ride to get a bird’s-eye “squizzy (Australian for “view”) of the western wilderness’ wildflowers, recommend a picnic lunch in southern Australia’s Barossa wine region, suggest the perfect beach from among Australia’s 7,000 or propose a visit to a deserted island in Queensland via canoe. American Express Travel offers a list of dedicated Australia specialists on its Australia travel Web site, www.myaussievacation.com, in the Find an Agentsection. Travelers visiting the site can also find a variety of value-added packages and special deals to Australia. American Express Cardmembers booking through one of these travel specialists can get a statement credit of $100 and double Membership Rewards points. Traveling with the American Express Card also provides a number of safeguards, such as access to local medical and legal providers through the Global Assist Hotline and baggage insurance, lending peace of mind while traveling—especially to a destination as far away as Australia. For safer and easier travels, travel specialists also recommend carrying a diversified wallet with a combination of payment options, such as a charge or credit card, some local currency and travelers cheques. American Express Travelers Cheques offer 24/7 customer service, worldwide acceptance and replacement of funds if lost or stolen. The cheques are also available in Australian dollars, eliminating the need for currency conversion.
