Adelaide is an elegant city with wide boulevards and is often referred to as the city of churches. The focal point is Rundle Street Mall where you will find a large number of al fresco restaurants and cafes similar to Melbourne. The other main dining centre is O'Connell St. which is situated in cosmopolitan North Adelaide. The Botanic Gardens are well worth a visit adjacent to the centre of town. The seaside suburb of Glenelg is a popular beach resort with locals and is a nice alternative to staying in the centre of Adelaide. Situated approx. 8kms from the city centre and connected by tram (the only line left in the city). There are trendy outdoor restaurants at the new apartment and marina complex including a great seafood restaurant called Sammies. I spent a pleasant afternoon in the sunshine dining on boullabaise and barramundi whilst being entertained by the local dolphin fishing for his own lunch.

3.5 Star
Good location in downtown Adelaide and excellent value for money self contained accommodation.

4 Star Apartment Style
Right in the heart of the city centre. Convenient location with full kitchen facilities.

5 Star
Great central location. Elegantly furnished with all the facilities expected of a luxury hotel. Excellent value for money.

4.5 Star Hotel Style
Fantastic location right on the beach and just 10 minutes from the city centre. I definitely recommend the ocean view rooms to take advantage of the wonderul views. Enjoy the sensational sunsets over the ocean from your balcony whilst sipping a glass of fine Barossa or McLaren Vale wine.

4.5 Star Apartment Style
Situated right on the beach with stunning ocean or park views. Choose from luxury one or two bedroom apartments with full kitchen and laundry facilities. Each apartment has a generous balcony.

This is the closest wine growing region to Adelaide, only 40mins drive from the city. There are some wonderful boutique wineries where you can taste and purchase varietes that you won't find in your average liquor outlet. My personal favourites were d'Arenberg who make a fantastic chardonnay and Wirra Wirra for their cabernet and shiraz.

If you enjoy food and wine and I must admit I do, then the Barossa Valley will satisfy the most discerning connoisseur. Situated just one hour north of Adelaide it is Australia's premier wine growing region . Established last century by German immigrants it is home to some of Australia's leading winemakers such as Seppelts, Saltrams, Wolf Blass, Orlando, Penfolds and Peter Lehmann. In fact there are over 48 vineyards both large and small to visit and one of my favourites is the boutique winery of Turkey Flat who produce a sensational cabernet sauvignon and shiraz that you won't find in mainstream liquor outlets.

Tanunda is the cultural heart of the Barossa with a distinct German influence. Today's Tanunda is also very much a mouthwatering choice of restaurants and shops selling German pastries, breads and wursts. An overnight stay is definitely recommended to relax and indulge yourself.

5 Star Country House Hotel
This is the most elegant establishment in the Barossa Valley. Classified as a 5 star Country House with all the facilities of a deluxe hotel. There are only 10 suites and 1 apartment which are beautifully furnished and luxuriously appointed with huge down pillows and duvets, fluffly white bathrobes, DVD players, mini bar and complimentary port. The spa suites have the added bonus of not only a spa bath but a pot belly stove which creates a cosy and romantic atmosphere whilst luxuriating in the spa bath or sipping on your after dinner port. The restaurant is intimate and elegant yet the atmosphere is relaxed.

If you don't have time to overnight in the Barossa then this popular day tour will at least give you a 'taste' of the famous wine growing area.