We could not resist. After having mentionned it a few days ago during the sand dune safari in Stockton Beach, here is what sandboarding looks like. And this is truly a sport! Sliding down the fine sandy slopes, then making the climb back to the top (usually under the hot sunshine), it becomes a real cardio workout. Sitting (as on a sled) or standing (as on a snowboard), the feelings are similar to the winter sports (only a few degrees warmer). It is imperative to try it while in Port Stephens area because unless you live near a sand dune high enough, the day you will be able to do it again might be far away!

Port Stephens area is located a few kilometers north of the Stockton Beach sand dunes. Geographically speaking it looks like the bay of St Tropez. In fact it is much quieter. It is the perfect holiday destination. The water is calm and turquoise. It is not impossible to come across some dolphins in Shoal Bay. The sunset from Nelson Bay (photo) or Soldiers Point boat ramps are a must see! Finally we start to understand why Lonely Planet has ranked Newcastle in its Top 10 cities to visit in the world.

Let's continue our investigations to confirm Newcastle's ranking in the 2011 Lonely Planet's top 10 cities in the world to visit. We took part in a sand dune safari in Stockton Beach with Dawsons Tours. Breathtaking! The landscape is incredible and sometimes reminds us of Fraser Island. The area is usually known for beach camping but the small 4WD expedition also provided some unexpected moment. Tin City emerging out of the sand like a mirage (where parts of Mad Max have been made), vestiges of the World War II and sandboarding are the highlights of this experience. Taking part in a safari is a must when you are in the area. Andrew, the Dawsons Tours guide, is in love with the place and does not hesitate to extend the journey if time allows it.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Dawsons Tours.

Lonely Planet has ranked Newcastle among the Top 10 cities to visit in the world? Let's go to Lake Macquarie area, a few kilometers south of the city, where one can experience a unique water activity with Jet Buzz. The Cheeky Bee promises a 40 minutes thrill ride on Lake Macquarie where you will experience high-speed slides and turns. But the experience would not be complete without a few 360° spins. The sensations are quite similar to what one feels on a jet ski. But the ride is not only about the adrenaline rush. Boarding the Cheeky Bee is also a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Lake Macquarie is quite similar to Lake Como in northern Italy (you know, where George Clooney owns a villa!). If you are lucky enough, you might even meet some last minute guests. Indeed, during our cruise two dolphins joined us playing in the waves created by the boat (photo). A magical moment to put on any bucket list! We definitely recommend Jet Buzz. To get a better idea of ​​the activity, visit the photo gallery of Jet Buzz or watch this video.

iPhoneography Oz was a guest of Jet Buzz.

We are heading south continuing our route along the North Coast of New South Wales. After Port Macquarie, here is Newcastle. Expectations are high as Newcastle was ranked 9th in the Lonely Planet's top 10 cities for 2011. It will take some time to prove it. Let's start with the most favorite activity of Australians: the beach. The city has a few. Bar Beach (photo) is a huge beach popular among families and surfers. It is located south of Newcastle City Business District. For a quieter time, you should climb some rocks to reach Susan Gilmore Beach, located below a large cliff at the northern part of Bar Beach.

What do you think? Have you been to Newcastle? What's your favourite beach in Newcastle area? Do you think Newcastle deserves its Lonely Planet ranking? Let us know in the comments below!

A few petrol pumps and a garage: from the outside it looks like a petrol station (maybe because it is one!). Yet we are going to talk about a new culinary discovery. Open the door and come in. It is magic: a grocery store (expired products for several months are on sale!), a counter shared between cash registers and grill, and finally, a dining room which looks like a veritable museum of lost items on the Route 66 (photo). But once again (in addition to this stop), the burgers are divine! All this is on the Waterfall Way, in Ebor, midway between Coffs Harbour and Armidale.

The Koala Hospital in Port Macquarie has koala admissions of between 200 and 300 each year. Sick or injured (from motor vehicles, dogs, bushfires etc.), koalas are now an endangered species. In the healing phase, after a stint in intensive care, these marsupials are moved into the outdoor yards of the hospital where you can witness their daily feeding. They are given eucalyptus leaves and a specially prepared milk supplement. If you would like to contribute, you can also adopt a wild koala for as little as 50 AUD.