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Australia a wonder unto itself. This wide expanse of land holds many secrets, unique landscapes & experiences and sustains a vibrant culture waiting to be explored. From the bustling cosmopolitan cities, the sun kissed beaches, the vibrant red interior, the characters you’ll meet and the memories you’ll keep, your Australian vacation will not fail to impress you. These travel tips will help you get the most out of your Australian vacation.
A departure tax of $38 AUD is included in your international airline ticket. Exemptions include children under 12 years old and passengers transiting through Australia.
Australia forms part of Oceania and is located in the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean, neighboring the countries of New Zealand and Indonesia.
Australia’s climate varies from tropical in the North to temperate in the South. There are four seasons: Summer from December to February, Autumn from March to May, Winter from June to August and Spring from September to November. The Northern part of Australia generally distinguishes it seasons as “Wet season” and “Dry Season” reflecting the amount of rainfall during the year. The Wet season is generally the summer season and the dry season is generally the winter season.
There are 3 time zones in Australia; Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST) which is one half hour behind EST and Western Standard Time (WST) which is two hours behind EST.Australia's EST is 10 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
ETA’s (Electronic Travel Authority) are required to enter Australia. Everyone except New
Zealanders require an ETA. They are easily obtained through your travel agent and allow you to enter Australia as a visitor. A passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your departure date.
3 pin plugs, 230/240 volts, 50Hz. You will need to bring a currency converter to recharge such things as your video camera.
It is not customary to tip in Australia but if you feel your server performed well you are most welcome to tip.
Australians dress informally on most occasions. Be sure to pack layered clothing all year round with a waterproof jacket so you’re prepared for any changes in weather.
English is the national language of Australia but you will find a bustling multicultural environment filled with the sounds of many other languages too.
Australia has an excellent health care and hostipal system. No vaccinations are required but we do strongly suggest travel insurance to all travelers to cover the cost of emergencies and medical services
should they be needed. Take safety precautions such as sunscreen application, water consumption and full coverage clothing tips seriously when in the sun and outdoors.
The currency of Australia is the Australian Dollar $AUD. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express & Diners Club) and debit cards are widely accepted and can be used in ATMs throughout the country. Traveler’s checks can be cashed at airports, banks and most hotels. The normal banking hours are from 9:00 am -4:30 pm Monday to Friday. While prices are show in single cents, they are rounded to the nearest 5 cent which is the smallest denomination of currency.
The predominant religions practiced in Australia include Catholic, Anglican and Christian though most other religions are also practiced.
Australian’s love sport! There are many different sports widely followed in Australia and the main unique sport is Australian Rules Football. Played in the winter months it has a huge following and all eyes are on the “footy” for the Grand Final held in Melbourne in September. In the summer months its cricket and tennis season, both popular spectator sports. The Nation stands still at 3:00pm EST, the first Tuesday of every November, to watch the Melbourne Cup Horseracing with hopes their horse will place first.
There are a range of ways to stay in touch. Internet cafes are everywhere but you can also access the internet at most hotels and libraries. Cell phones can be rented and public phones are great for local calls that are a flat rate and untimed. Public phones accept Australian coins, credit cards and some calling cards. Australia Post will take care of all your postal needs.
Westbound flights appear to be the worst for jet lag but many people report feelings of jet lag with any long haul flights. To prevent feeling the worse for wear when you arrive at your destination try the following tips:
Be well rested before boarding your flight, drink plenty of fluids and cut back on the alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, don’t eat all the meals just because they’re offered and try to exercise by stretching in your seat or strolling the isle. One of the best tips is to try to set your body clock to your destination’s time while in flight. Waiting until you land can leave you literally in the wrong time zone.
Australians drive on the left side of the road. Care should be taken to follow all road signs and traffic lights. International travelers are encouraged to pay close attention to their driving, especially when driving for the first time. International driver’s licenses are not necessary but a valid US drivers license is a must.
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