AUSTRALIA ~ Course Description

Orientation

Brisbane

Arrive in Brisbane and transfer from the international airport to our centrally located accommodations. Following your arrival, enjoy a walking tour of a historical segment of the city. Our hostel enjoys easy access to all the major attractions. Brisbane is easily navigated via public transportation. Ride its buses and ferries to different city highlights and become familiar with Brisbane's perimeters. A swim in the Pacific Ocean could be the best remedy for warding off jet lag.

During your orientation, pay a visit to the Australian National Museum. This museum contains a wide range of galleries from prehistory to the modern present. Aboriginal artifacts that hint at a world created by Songlines catapult visitors into a lifeway far different from our own. The art history section will give you a strong visual impression of Australia's history, with ample opportunities to ask questions, and discuss the issues of the day.

With a bit of Brisbane under our belts, we will enjoy guest lecturers from university professors. Topics will include the human history of the continent, Australian geography, flora and fauna-find out what happened to the legendary Tasmanian Tiger--did it really have the pouch of a marsupial? Are eucalyptus leaves a narcotic for koala bears? What uses do the Duck Billed Platypus' web feet, beaver-like tail and poisonous spur serve? Learn about women's roles in traditional and Western societies. And hear from experts in Aboriginal land issues. Specifically, participate in discussions about the history of post-colonial Australia, and the plight of the Indigenous People. This fascinating and compelling story remains at the forefront of Australia's current political scene, as 2001 marks the Centennial of the six British colonies' federation into a sovereign nation.

I.C.E. is currently revising the second section of its orientation period. We will update you via e-mail the improved itinerary.