Australia
Australia will ruin beaches for the rest of your life. Nothing will measure up to the grandeur that is Australian beach life. The chill vibes of the Aussies makes you really want to slow down and enjoy life. Whether you’re chillin on the beach or road tripping through the outback – travelling through Australia is unlike anywhere else.
Basic Info
Drinking water: Safe to drink from the tap
Plugs: Type I (See photo below)
Covid Updates
Closed for international travel with some exemptions.
Money
Official Currency: $ Australian dollar
Budget: Those on the pound, Euro and USD will benefit from a better exchange rate but traveling within Australia is anything but cheap, especially if you’re coming from SE Asia. Hostels average around $20 AUD, a coffee will run you $4 AUD and a beer $9 AUD in the city.
Credit card usage: Everything is set up for contactless credit cards. People don’t pay often with cash.
Tipping: Not customary but nice to leave a little extra
Visas
EU citizens and 9 other European countries can enter on eVisitor status which is free of charge. 6 Asian countries and US and Canada may enter on Electronic Travel Authority which comes with $20 AUD service charge.
**Always check with your government for the most up to date information on visa requirements.**
Vaccinations
None
**Assuming you are current on routine vaccinations. Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on required vaccinations specific to your home country**
Safety
Exercise Normal Precautions
**Always check with your government for the most accurate and up to date information on safety**
Language
Official Languages: English
Some Aussie slang, just in case:
Thank-you: Ta
Bottle – O: Liquor store
Maccas: McDonald’s
Sheila: A woman Arvo: Afternoon
When to go
Spring (Sept – Nov) and fall (March – May) are generally considered the most comfortable time to visit but they’re also the busiest times to travel. Spring is also ideal for diving and surfing.
The Northern territory and Queensland is very hot and humid in the summer with heavy rainfall. Winter is drier with much more comfortable temps, never getting very cold.
In the south, Victoria (Melbourne) and South Australia have hot summers and more or less mild winters, but it still gets cold enough for jackets and indoor heating. Think 40’s – 50s F (10 C)
Responsible Travel
Respect of indigenous traditions and sacred lands and minimizing your effect on reef bleaching. Check to ensure tour operators you choose are conscientious of this and research your sunscreen.
