10. Canberra

We are in the national capital of Australia in the Australian Capital Territory or ACT. The ACT is located about halfway between Sydney and Melbourne, somewhat inland, an island of sorts nestled in the hills of southern New South Wales.

The National Capitol, as one would expect, is packed with places to visit. On this trip we took in the Parliament House (akin to the US Capitol building), the Australian Mint, National Science Museum, some of the war memorials, and the Carillon (a giant musical bell tower). Just out of town we also visited the Telstra Tower. Being mostly government facilities, most of the tours were free which makes for a very economical day.

Parliament House

We are here in front of the beautiful Parliament House, or Argument House as the kids call it. The building is a big 'X' shape with the lawn extending up and over the building and open to visitors wanting to take a stroll. This is symbolic in that the public can be over the government. Inside, after passing though security,

the halls are richly adorned with gifts from many nations. The main lobby is all done in marble (Italian, I think) and there are wood inlay placards above the doors depicting various Australian plants. You can go right through to the center where one side houses the House of Lords (Senate) and the other the House of Commons (ministers). The observation balcony is open to the floor below where the ministers hold their often spirited public debates. Most of the proceedings are the droll government business, but great entertainment is 'question time' where the gloves come off. Listen for the dreaded phrase 'please explain'.

National Science Museum

The National Science Museum was a great kids activity stop with lots of hands on displays.

Australian Mint

The Australian Mint was open for guided tours. You could look down into the large rooms where the coin presses operate and the guide gives a good talk on the business of minting money.

Telstra Tower

This giant tower on top of a local hilltop provides unparalleled views of the whole of Canberra. The tower includes a small telecommunications museum with some great hands-on displays for the kids and a cafe/resturaunt at the top. There is also an outdoor viewing platform at the highest level - hang on to your hat - its windy up there.

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