Separated from mainland Australia by the 240 kilometres (150 miles) stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land apart - a green island of wild, mountainous and beautiful landscapes; friendly, welcoming people; temperate climate; quality cool-climate wines and food; a spirited history; and a creative arts community - all wrapped up in a relaxed lifestyle. More than 40 per cent of the island is protected as World Heritage Area, national parks and reserves. And because Tasmania is so compact it is easy to walk through an ancient alpine meadow in the morning and be on a pure white beach in the afternoon. Tasmania’s population of less than 500,000 supports a world-class symphony orchestra, a festival of island cultures, and a mid-winter festival that celebrates their Antarctic connections. Tasmania is never crowded, and its historic towns and seaside villages are dispersed across an area about the size of Ireland or West Virginia. The average summer temperature is a comfortable 21degrees Celsius (70 degrees Fahrenheit), while winter’s average is a mild 12degrees Celsius (52 degrees Fahrenheit).