If you’re looking for a travel destination that has a little bit of everything for your entire family then you’ll want to travel to Australia. You’ll get to see beautiful scenery, unique animal species, and visit some awesome attractions. Did we mention that Australia is the home of some killer beaches too?
To help you get the most out of your trip to Australia here is all of the things that you should expect before you get there and after.
1. You’ll Need a Visa
Even if you’re only visiting Australia for a few days, you’ll still need to have a valid visa. The good news is that it’s a pretty easy process. If you’re visiting as a tourist then you can apply for one online.
If you’re doing any kind of work or studying abroad then things will get a little more complicated. You can visit the Australian government’s department website to see all of the special requirements.
2. They Have Strict Quarantine Laws
Australia is free from a bunch of pests and diseases and they would like to keep it that way. This being said, the government is picky about what goes into the country.
When you get in you’ll have to write down any food, animal products, or plants that you have with you. If nothing you have poses a risk then all of your materials will be returned to you.
If you something you have does pose a risk then it will be taken away from you and you may be forced to pay some sort of fee. If you bring something in and don’t declare it then you will be slapped with a hefty fine.
3. There Will be a Bit of Language Gap
English is spoken in Australia but they do have certain phrases that you may not understand at all. Here are a few common words that you’ll hear.
- G’day- Hello
- Arvo- Afternoon
- Beauty- Great
- You ripper- how fantastic
- Brekkie- breakfast
- Bikkie- biscuit/cracker
- Bogan- uncouth Australian
- Doona- Duvet
- Have a gander- take a look
- Idiot box- television
- Grog- alcohol
- Lollies- candy
- Thongs- flipflops
There are some words here that you probably use such as idiot box but you can see how some of them would be more confusing. These are only a few phrases that you’ll run into. We recommend looking up a more complete list before your trip.
4. The Food
The food is a bit different in Australia but like with most countries if you don’t branch out and try the local delicacies then you’ll regret it. Despite the fact that you may want to have kangaroo and meat pies for every meal you may save a bit more money if you do some of your own cooking as well.
It will be convenient to eat out every day but you may burn through your budget if you do because Australia is expensive. We’ll delve into that more a little later.
5. Plan for the Weather
Australia is on the Southern hemisphere so when we’re having summer then they will be having winter and vice versa. It’s a great destination if you want to escape the sweltering heat of the summer.
The weather will also vary from city to city. For example, the winters in Sydney are pretty mild. When you go to Melbourne you may want to have a thick winter coat with you.
On the flip side of this if you’re visiting during our winter then you’ll need to pick up plenty of sunscreen and water. Always check the weather so you know how to dress.
6. Create an Itinerary
Australia is a huge place. If you don’t get an itinerary ready before you go then you’ll miss a lot of the best stuff. You want to give yourself enough time to explore.
Your best bet is to fly from city to city. If you try to take public transport or drive it will take you a minute. For example, it’s about a 9-hour drive between Sydney and Maluborne if you try to get there that way.
7. Tipping Your Server
Australia pays their servers a livable wage for the most part. This means that you don’t have to tip your servers. You can still tip them if you felt like you got some exceptional service though.
It won’t be insulting and they won’t turn it down but they won’t need it. Cafes and restaurants do still have tip jars.
8. Between the Flags
You can’t leave Australia without visiting the beaches. There is a bit of danger in it though. It’s easy to get swept away by a current.
If you’re going to enjoy a beach make sure that it’s being patrolled by lifeguards and stay in between the yellow and red flags. They are there for a reason.
9. Finding a Place to Stay
It can be expensive to stay in Australia. Your best bet would probably be to stay in a small bed and breakfast. They’re family-owned and run a bit cheaper than bigger hotels.
If you have a large family with you or you just want to stay in somewhere nicer than that, then you may be able to find a good deal at Corporate Keys Australia.
Key Travel Tips for Your Trip to Australia
If you’re planning to take a trip to Australia then you’ll need to do a bit of prep work before you go. If you don’t you won’t be able to utilize all of your time to enjoy the country fully. Make the most out of your vacation.
Is Australia not the destination you’re heading to? Don’t worry, we have travel tips for countries all over. Check out our blog for more.
