Just south of Victoria, and 240 km from the mainland, is the thrilling island of Tasmania. From wilderness and coastline to city life, Australia’s most unique state offers an all-encompassing vacation for the Muslim traveller.
The East Coast region provides the perfect picturesque coastal drive, with no lack of exciting attractions on the way. Don’t forget to admire the pristine beaches at the Freycinet National Park amidst the peaks of the granite mountains. Or for more mountainous scenes, take a drive from Launceston to Cradle Mountain, and discover one of Tasmania’s gems, the Dove Lake.
At the centre of Launceston, experience a ride on the world’s longest single span chairlift through the Cataract Gorge to witness a beautiful oasis. Bruny Island is another great natural beauty to explore. Take a car ferry from Kettering or a day tour and try out a Pennicott Wilderness Journey to cruise the coastline. Take in the breath-taking sights of sea cliffs and crags, cross into deep sea caves, stop to hear the ‘Breathing Rock’ and stay on the look out for dolphins, whales, seals and an abundance of sea birds. Post-sightseeing you’re bound to get the tourist itch to shop. Head to Hobart’s city centre for the many options from Bligh Street to Elizabeth Street, where both designer labels and antique stores are ready to welcome you and your wallets.
For a more vintage experience, Hobart Salamanca place is at a historic waterfront location with 17th century warehouses. Now furnished with high fashion, find the markets packed with bargains every Saturday. Hobart is not the only city to shop at on the island; Launceston city centre offers the same range of exclusive boutiques and unique Tasmanian products. As can be expected in Australia’s diverse ethnic environment, the Halal food outlets of Tasmania offer an exciting range of cuisines. Enjoy authentic Nepalese foods at Kathmandu cuisine, in the heart of the capital. For a North Indian culinary experience, find The Saffron at Hobart’s waterfront.
Finally, just minutes from Hobart’s CBD, the Crescent Rated A restaurant, Kebab Rehab, encourages an indulgence in a truly Middle Eastern experience. Alternatively you can explore Tasmania’s extensive array of some of the world’s freshest seafood in markets and seafood restaurants across the state. For prayers, the main mosque of Tasmania is near the centre of its capital.
Hobart Islamic centre is easy to get to and accessible to the Muslim traveller.
For more information on travelling to Australia, the Muslim Visitor Guide by Tourism Australia and HalalTrip details what every Muslim traveller should look to experience on their trip to any of Australia’s eight major states. Find a free downloadable copy of the guide here.
