Located in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of the country, modern Dortmund is vibrant and cultural, known for its good shopping, beer and football. But there is another, altogether gentler, side to this former industrial powerhouse. Dortmund has great theatres and cultural centres, a range of fascinating museums and, with half the city given over to parks and gardens, enough green areas to sooth the senses.

Brisbane is a bustling, cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, beautiful riverside parks, a busy cultural calendar, and lively nightlife. Queensland's capital city is surrounded by some of the state's major tourist attractions, and there is an abundant choice of day trips. Explore the coast for the golden beaches or go inland for some of the region's serene bushland — there is something for everyone here.

Situated amidst the 74 Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island offers an experience like no other: glorious weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, wondrous coral reefs, unique flora and fauna, divine food and wines, and a buzzing calendar of special events. With its laid-back luxury and activities almost too numerous to mention, Hamilton Island is the next island in the Great Barrier Reef you should visit.

Coffs Harbour is a paradise of attractions, offering everything from thrilling skydives and underwater adventures to dolphin shows and waterfront dining. Nearby, you can walk above a rainforest canopy in the World Heritage wilderness. Known for its bananas, fish and surf, this coastal city on the NSW North Coast lies at the southern edge of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, a haven for turtles and a fantastic spot for diving. Relax on beautiful beaches in Coffs, a much-loved destination halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, easily reachable by air, road or rail.