Travel Do's and Don'ts.

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Make sure to keep it in a secure place as you definitely do not want to be stuck without it.

Keep a list of important or emergency contact numbers with you along with crucial travel documents like itineraries, hotels, identification, etc.

When you do arrive to your hotel be sure to keep those documents safe from any harm by keeping them in the hotel safe deposit box.

You will also be required to have a valid Australian tourist Visa, which you can obtain from your own country before leaving.

When it comes to the actual flight, brace yourself.

This will be one doozy of a flight.

Remember that the bag you check has to be less than 50 pounds (that's about 24 kg) or most airlines will charge the heck out of you.

Try to balance the weight between your carry on and you should have no problems.

You are able to have a carry on and a personal item, for a lady this generally means a purse.

A way around it is to carry an extra large duffel instead of a purse if you need the extra room.

Just remember about souvenirs on the flight back!

Recently a law has been passed that you are not able to carry on any liquids or gels that are more than 3 oz.

This means you MUST check your hairsprays, tanning oils, contact solutions, and things of that nature if it contains more and they WILL catch you! (take it from me who has learned the hard way, twice!)

I repeat, THEY WILL CATCH IT!

Remember, the seasons in Australia and the US are switched.

Don't go over there in July thinking it will be as hot as Death Valley in August.

The summer months in Australia are November through February/March and the opposite is true for the winter months, so plan accordingly as you don't want to pack only tank tops and flip flops and be cold and miserable the whole time.

Pack clothing that travels nicely, resists wrinkles and dries fast.

Alright, the flight itself:

Once you get on the plane, turn your watch to the local time and get your mind thinking that way, it helps drastically with jet lag.

If you have room, pack small toiletries with you like a toothbrush, deodorant, or moisturizer.

You will be on the plane for hours and will understand why later.

If you plan to sleep, which is a good idea and helps to pass the time, pack a lumbar or neck pillow.

Blankets and sometimes pillows will be distributed, but if you have your own you won't have to worry and will be snoozing like a little lamb in no time.

Once you land in Australia you should already have your reservations for your accommodation.

There is everything imaginable as far as accommodation is concerned, from virtually free back packing to luxurious five star resorts and hotels.

The major hotels obviously have a larger range of places to hang your hat, but as you get further into the country, you will be limited to cheaper hotels or motor-motels so you need to think about the type of vacation you are planning and keep your pocket book in mind, too!

Alright, so now you have landed, you are free of jet lag, your bags are put away in your luxury hotel suite and you are ready to paint to the town red.

There are a few words of caution before immersing yourself into the depths of the Aussie culture.

Although Australia is known for being a rather safe country with low crime rates, you should just take general precautions and not assume that nothing can happen to you.

While in Australia, you will more than likely be outdoors for a greater portion of your stay.

Because most of the travel takes place during the summer months be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen.

Forget the motto, "less is more", you will be thanking your lucky stars when you aren't burnt to a crisp.

While at the beach, be aware of the flags; they should be yellow and red.

You must stay in between the flags for several reasons.

There are sharks in the waters; although I am not trying to scare you, it is the ocean and it can happen, although it's quite rare.

What is more serious and probable are jellyfish.

During November through April, Jellyfish are quite plentiful in Australian waters and you can get stung.

Although usually not fatal, a sting will greatly disrupt your vacation.

If not at the beach, but still outdoors, be aware that there are crocodiles (where do you think they came up with the idea, "Crocodile Dundee"?).

There are also snakes, spiders, and other creepy crawlies you should not be afraid of, just be aware that they exist and attacks can happen, although unlikely if you just pay enough attention!

Alright, enough of the scary information.

Here are just a few last minute pointers, just FYI.

There are four or five different time zones in Australia depending on the time of year you visit.

Tipping is completely optional, although customary.

The acceptable rate is 10%.

Liquor laws state you must be over 18 years of age to consume or buy alcohol.

As far as money, credit cards, and money exchanging, it is quite simple.

Most traditional credit cards, debit cards, traveller's check and local Australian currency are accepted.

Australia

Australia

Australia

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