Travel guides 2016

Great alpine road drive guide: about 303 km from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, key stops, Mount Hotham, Omeo and the winter snow chain rules.

Sunshine Coast hinterland day trip: a loop of Maleny, Montville and Mapleton with walk times, market days, Glass House Mountains lookouts and parking tips.

Travel agent or online booking? A plain comparison of cost, protection if the seller fails, changes and support, with a pick for each type of trip.

Wave Rock day trip from Perth: about 340 km each way to Hyden, what to see at the rock, the Humps and Mulka's Cave, and the best months to go.

Gili islands trip guide: fast boat or public boat from Bali, which of the three Gilis suits whom, and what to book ahead before you cross to Lombok.

Tokyo trip for Australians: no visa for stays under 90 days, which train card to buy, whether you need a rail pass, and a four day plan for first-timers.

Coober Pedy underground stay guide: how dugout rooms work, where to book, what to see in town and how to get there by road, coach, plane or train.

Russell falls walk guide: the easy paved track in Mount Field National Park, the Tarn Shelf circuit, and how to plan a day trip from Hobart.

Hamilton Island holiday guide: how to fly in, which stay suits you, how buggies and the free shuttle work, and what to do on and off the island.

Three Capes Track guide: how booking works, what the fee covers, the huts, the boat from Port Arthur, the four days and the fitness you need.

Cape York road trip guide: dry season timing, 4WD needs, Old Telegraph Track creek crossings, fuel gaps and the Jardine River ferry.

Ubud travel guide: how to plan Campuhan Ridge, Tegallalang, the Monkey Forest and the palace, plus where to base yourself in Bali's arts town.