Aptly labelled “The Bush Capital” of Australia, the Australian Capital Territory is rich with scenic flora in its forests and reserves. Add food and shopping to the mix and the state serves as a fun and unique tourist destination. If your interests lie in politics, history, or art and architecture, the Parliament House is a must visit of Canberra. Witness a panoramic view of the city from the rooftop, browse through historic documents, sit in during Question Time, or explore the extensive art collection.
The Parliament House is most definitely a great way to learn more about Australia’s past and present. For an appreciation of the more innovative side to the country, head down Poachers Way for the chefs, artists and galleries. Or explore the Old Bus Depot Markets on a Sunday afternoon for unique jewellery and handicrafts, and an array of exciting fashion items.
If you are looking for a more thorough shopping experience, Canberra has more than enough malls and streets to serve your needs. The shopping hub of the city is Canberra centre, with over 300 retail outlets complete with cinemas for you to rest your feet. Canberra Outlet Centre is another great place to shop, especially if you’re travelling with kids, as you’ll be happy to discover it’s indoor play centre. Finally, Lonsdale Street in Braddon has a more eclectic mix of items. With boutique stores and many local designers, it’s the best place to be for an extensive range of uniquely Australian designs. Canberra also caters well to Muslim travellers with its two main prayer facilities; Canberra Mosque near the heart of the city, and Canberra Islamic Centre. Don’t forget Canberra’s many Halal dining options when you’re scouting for a lunch or dinner spot!
Kabul Kebab House has a Crescent Rating of AA and serves traditional Afghan cuisine just minutes from the CBD. At a similar distance, head to Ali Baba for ample choice in kebabs of a truly Arab flavour. Alternatively, Turkish Halal Pide House exemplifies the richness of Turkish cuisine, while the restaurant Ottoman cuisine, does the same in an exceptionally elegant setting with gardens and palm trees.
On the other hand, if you would like a more authentically local experience of nature, Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is one of the must visit sites of the state. Found in an incredibly picturesque valley, look out for koalas, emus, kangaroos, wombats and possums! Or enjoy Australia’s wildlife on a night tour of the reserve. For another scenic appreciation of the country, take an early morning tour of the city from the unrivalled view of Australia’s skies, in a hot air balloon!
Fly over the Parliament House and other iconic sites, or simply admire where country and city meet to form the borders of Australia’s capital, Canberra. For more information on travelling to Australia, the recently launched 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.
