Travel guides 2013

The Ghan train runs 2,979 km from Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs and Katherine. Read the route, the stops, the time it takes and the cabin choices.

Indian Pacific train guide: Sydney to Perth, about 4,352 km, the route, stops, Gold, Platinum and Red Service, and how to plan your trip.

Sydney Opera House tour guide: how the daily guided tours work, what a backstage visit adds, which hall suits which show, and how to plan your day.

Day walk packing list for Australian walkers: water, food, layers, map and compass, first aid, sun protection and a plan left with someone.

Choosing a Ha Long Bay cruise from Hanoi: day trip or overnight, the road trip, what to ask before paying and the best months to go.

A Byron Bay weekend plan: the Cape Byron walk, whale season, beaches, the first Sunday market and car park fees at the cape.

Plan a Hunter Valley weekend north of Sydney: how to taste wine without drink driving, where to base yourself and how to pace two days.

New Zealand holiday for Australians: no visa is needed on an Australian passport. Entry basics, quarantine rules, and how to choose the North or South Island.

Planning a Japan cherry blossom trip from Australia? How bloom timing works by city, why it shifts each year, and how to book early for a short window.

A yarra valley day trip from Melbourne in one easy plan: wineries, Healesville Sanctuary, lunch and a safe way to get home. Times, towns and tips.

Port Arthur Historic Site visit guide: the 90 minute drive from Hobart, opening hours, what the two day pass covers, current prices and how long to allow.

Brisbane weekend guide: a two day plan with CityCat ferries, South Bank Parklands, the Cultural Centre and an easy day out at Lone Pine or Mount Coot-tha.