Bill Bailey's Hobart: My Kind of Town Stout boots are a must, because you can walk up to some lovely lookouts with fabulous views of the city. I also like to go hiking in the national parks if I get the chance and observe the wildlife - so pack some binoculars. One way of reaching Hobart, which I actually recommend if you have time, is by taking the ferry. However, the crossing can be pretty choppy, so if you haven't got a stout stomach, it might be an idea to take seasickness pills. Last, be sure to pack your bathing trunks (and a wetsuit if you've got one). There are some beautiful beaches within relatively easy reach of the city. What's the first thing you do? I love to walk around the Waterfront and Salamanca Place part of town, where convicts who were transported from Britain would have once walked. I usually take a stroll along the esplanade and admire the historic buildings, such as the sandstone Parliament House which dates to the 19th century. Incidentally, Hobart is still the jumping-off point for a lot of the research and scientific ships heading for the Antarctic, so you'll often see one or two in the harbour preparing to head south, another reason to visit the Waterfront area. And the best place to stay? I like to stay at the Henry Jones Art Hotel (0061 3 6210 7700; thehenryjones.com), a super-stylish boutique property on the waterfront. Converted from a one-time jam factory, it's got a really nice feel to it, artworks liven up the rooms and it is perfectly located. Where would you meet friends for a drink? I'm quite partial to the odd drink, it has to be said, and one of the city's best pubs is Knopwoods Retreat (6223 5808; knopwoods.com) in Salamanca Place. It's got more than a dozen beers on tap. Incidentally, you've got to try the local Cascade beer when in town: it's first class. And the best place for lunch? My favourite place to go for lunch is the Tricycle Café & Bar (6223 7228; salarts.org.au) at the Salamanca Arts Centre. It's cosy, laid-back, has got a bit of character and does nice salads, sarnies and coffees. In a word, it's my kind of place. For dinner? It's got to be Ethos (6231 1165; ethoseatdrink.com), a stone's throw from the harbour. If you're a carnivore, you'll be in heaven because the meat is excellent. Having said that, pretty much everything on the menu is good. I've never been disappointed. First off, explore the Waterfront, which is host to a number of well-preserved historical buildings. Then head up to the lookout at Mount Nelson, a few miles from the city centre - the views are stunning. You've got to visit one of the island's amazing dozen-odd national parks too, if only for glimpse of a Tasmanian devil, a strange dog-sized carnivorous marsupial. What should I avoid? The city's casino. They're the same all over the world. And besides, the last thing I want to do when I'm visiting somewhere as naturally stunning as Tasmania is waste any time holed up in a casino. Please! What should I bring home? Some Lark whisky, a single malt that is brewed in Tasmania and has a taste all its own. It's really rather good. Anywhere that isn't your kind of town? I didn't much like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The last time I was in Abu Dhabi I had some alcohol confiscated off me by a policeman and was nearly arrested. As a result, I don't think I'll be going back in a hurry. Bill Bailey's 'Qualmpeddler" live show is touring from September 14 and is at London's Wembley Arena on November 29. For more information, see billbailey.co.uk. The show is released on DVD on November 18. Tasmania travel guide An essential guide to Tasmania, from our expert Mark Chipperfield, including the best attractions, top hotels, restaurants and nightlife, plus a seasonal guide. Overview Tasmania's best hotels Attractions Restaurants Nightlife Beaches Drives Sydney-based Mark Chipperfield has been reporting on Australia and the Pacific region for over 20 years. He has explored the Outback, the Northern Territory and Tasmania.