Travel guides 2012

Plan an Adelaide Hills day trip: the short drive to Hahndorf, the German settlers' story, the village layout and a simple plan for the day.

Checked baggage allowance explained: how Qantas and Virgin Australia count weight and pieces, what extra bags cost, and how to pack under the limit.

Melbourne laneways walk: link Hosier Lane, Degraves Street and Centre Place on foot, with street art, coffee stops and the quietest times to go.

Perth weekend guide for two days: Kings Park and its gardens on Saturday, then the train to Fremantle and Cottesloe Beach on Sunday.

Floriade Canberra runs for 30 days each spring in Commonwealth Park. Learn when to go, how to get there, where to park and what to bring.

Litchfield National Park day trip: falls, swimming and a simple loop from Darwin, with what to pack and when to go.

Thailand holiday for Australians: visa-free entry for 30 days by air, passport rules, the best months, and how to split time between Bangkok, the north and the islands.

Vivid Sydney light festival runs 25 May to 11 June 2012 around Circular Quay and the Opera House. Where to walk, when to go and how to beat the crowds.

Anzac Day Gallipoli trip guide: register with the Department of Veterans' Affairs, plan for the walks, cold and long waits, and know what to pack.

MONA Hobart visit guide: how to reach the Museum of Old and New Art at Berriedale by ferry or road, what entry costs and how long to plan.

Cyclone season travel in North Queensland: when the season runs, how watches and warnings work, and a short checklist for travellers and flexible bookings.

Sydney to Hobart yacht race guide: the 628 nautical mile route, when boats arrive and the best places to watch the finish in Hobart.