Don’t let the name fool you – Tasmania isn’t a state of devils and deserted wilderness. In fact, more than 40 percent of the island is protected as World Heritage Area, including national parks and wildlife reserves.
Tasmania is an island off the mainland of Australia and separated by about 150 miles of the Bass Straight. In total, Tasmania is about the size of Ireland or West Virginia. Tasmanians are very passionate about their environment. Travelers spending time on Tasmania will soon find that the people are just as precious to the environment as the island animals.
Most travelers visit Tasmania via air. Qantas, Virgin Blue and Regional Express (all local airlines) fly from the mainland to Hobart and Launceston. Travelers can find cheap flights to Tasmania from Melbourne if booked on the Internet (as opposed to at the airport).
Traveling through Tasmania is actually quite simple. There are no direct international flights to Tasmania, but visitors can reach the island by booking local Tasmania flights from one of the other larger Australian cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Once in Tasmania, the easiest way to get around is by car.
