A continent in its own right, Australia’s landscapes range from tropical rainforests to the red deserts of the Outback via vineyards, surf beaches and cosmopolitan cities. Thanks to an efficient network of internal flights, you can experience many of these places within the same trip.
We’ve found some of the biggest Australian myths to be true: this really is a land of easy-going attitudes where active, outdoor lifestyles are celebrated and natural wonders abound. We can recommend how to make the most out of your Australia holiday, whether you’re interested in snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, heading out on a bushwalk with an Aboriginal guide, or simply looking for the best seafood in Perth.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
A country of two climates, Australia’s northern half is driest and most accessible between April and September. Warm sunny days show the national parks and beaches at their very best, providing opportunities for swimming and barbecues. The north is humid from October to March, with more rainfall, but this is offset by the active wildlife, and reinvigorated rainforests and wetlands. In the southern half of Australia, the summer months of December to February bring hot weather. Autumn (March to May) is also a lovely time, with numerous festivals and the busy grape harvest. Winter (June to August) is less busy and generally attracts a temperate climate that’s ideal for walking, while spring (September to November) often sees more wildlife activity.
What to Pack
Things to do and see
Food and drink
The influence of Asian culture combined with Australia’s breezy lifestyle and position on the Pacific Rim has led to the development of a distinctive, fresh and modern Australian style of cuisine. The emphasis is on freshly produced ingredients, often concentrating on the excellent local seafood and beef.
Australian wine now has a formidable international reputation and makes a fine complement to any meal. The Hunter Valley and the Barossa Valley are just two of the many wine growing areas. Not to be forgotten, Australia also has many fine beers with James Boag and Cascade from Tasmania and Castlemaine XXXX from Queensland being amongst the most popular.
How to Get Around
VISA
UK passport holders require a Cuban Tourist card to visit Cuba: we can arrange this on your behalf. As well as being a fantastic country to visit in its own right Cuba can very easily be combined with Costa Rica or Mexico.
Where i visited
Language
Australians speak English, and although there are some definite peculiarities in the vernacular from state to state, it is easy to communicate once you have adjusted to the laconic and sometimes colourfully coarse and playful lingo.
money and expense
he official currency is the Australian dollar. Australian dollar traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at international airport and foreign exchange bureaus and all international credit cards are widely accepted. You will be able to access Australian currency from Maestro and Cirrus ATM machines (cash point machines) as long as you have a four-digit pin-code.
Tipping
Tipping is not generally a custom in Australia. Most Australians will either round the amount up or simply leave the change. In more formal places it is becoming customary to leave about 10% if you feel the service is worthy.
Social etiquette
Australian culture is far more diverse than people expect, with the country boasting a rich tapestry of European and Asian influences. However, it is the Aboriginal culture that is uniquely Australian. In remote communities bear in mind that local people may speak English as a second or third language, may not read or write it at all and don’t necessarily use the same verbal and body language as non-indigenous people. Always ask before photographing a person or group. Reputable tourism operators are sensitive to all these issues and plan their tours so as not to clash with cultural sensitivities.
Adaptor
WIFI
Ruth’s Lonely Planet 