Welcome to Australia!
Once you have organized your tour, purchased your air tickets, and obtained your Australian visitor visa, all that remains is to pack your bags. What should you consider?
First of all, familiarize yourself with the list of prohibited items and be aware of a strict bio-control on the border. Then you will find the following information about the country useful:
Time. Australia has a total of 3 main time zones but also has several smaller, less widely used time zones, bringing the total number to 5 or even 9 when including external territories.
The three main time zones are:
Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): UTC +10:00, covers the eastern states (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory)
Australian Central Standard Time (ACST): UTC +9:30, covers South Australia and the Northern Territory, as well as the town of Broken Hill in New South Wales
Australian Western Standard Time (AWST): UTC +8:00, covers Western Australia
Electricity. Sockets in the country differ from European and US ones. A three-pin adapter is required. It can be purchased at the airport or any store in Australia.
Money. The local currency is the New Zealand dollar. The approximate ratio to its American counterpart is USD 0.68 = AUD 1.00 (of course, the exchange rate is constantly fluctuates). Only the national currency is in circulation in the country, and you can pay for goods and services in USD or EUR only in duty-free shops, so you will have to exchange cash or withdraw it from an ATM. But it is best to pay for purchases with a bank card. This can be done everywhere, only the smallest shops do not accept international payment systems Visa or Mastercard.
Weather. Australia's weather is as diverse as its landscapes. The northern regions experience a tropical climate with warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. The central part of the country is characterized by an arid and semi-arid climate, resulting in hot and dry conditions with limited rainfall. The southern regions enjoy a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters, while the coastal areas experience milder temperatures due to the influence of the ocean. It's important to note that Australia's weather patterns can be influenced by various factors, including El Niño and La Niña events, leading to fluctuations in rainfall and temperature. Overall, Australia offers a range of climates, from tropical to temperate, making it a destination suitable for various weather preferences. Pack your bags with this in mind.
Clothes to take to Australia:
For a day in good weather:
everything you would take for a summer day in the Northern Hemisphere of the middle lane, that is, T-shirts, shorts, be sure to wear hats.
sneakers, two pairs for a change
swimsuits (in any season for pools)
shoes for "wet" tours, something that can be worn for kayaking, for example
For a day in bad weather:
windbreaker, preferably waterproof
light sweater
a change of jeans in case of rain, or better yet, quick-drying sports pants
shirts or turtlenecks with long sleeves
For the evening:
pants, jeans
sweater
T-shirts
For the sea (in spring, winter and autumn):
it is advisable to take a warm jacket from the wind
from a strong wind, you can take a warm hat with you. You may only need it once, but it weighs little, so it won't hurt.
For winter trips:
warm jacket (you should not carry a fur coat)
warm shoes
hat and gloves
It's not necessary to take evening dresses or jackets, this form of clothing is accepted only in top restaurants and 5* hotels. We also do not recommend high-heeled shoes. The most important thing is to take comfortable and light shoes with you and another pair for a change, in case of rain. The dress code in Australia is casual - sporty and comfortable.
Shops. Shopping in Australia offers a diverse and exciting experience for visitors. From bustling city centers to charming coastal towns, there's something for everyone. In major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, you'll find high-end boutiques, international brands, and sprawling shopping malls. Explore the Queen Victoria Building in Sydney or the Melbourne Central Shopping Centre for a mix of luxury and affordable options. For a unique experience, head to the local markets, like the Salamanca Market in Hobart or the Fremantle Markets in Perth, where you can find handmade crafts, local produce, and vintage treasures. Don't forget to explore the charming boutiques and independent stores scattered throughout the country, offering a curated selection of Australian-made products and unique designs. Whether you're searching for souvenirs, fashion, or homewares, Australia's shopping scene is sure to delight.
What to bring from Australia? Australia offers a wide array of unique and memorable souvenirs to bring back home. Indulge in the country's rich Aboriginal culture by purchasing authentic artwork, didgeridoos, or boomerangs crafted by indigenous artisans. Delight your taste buds with delectable treats like Tim Tams, Vegemite, or macadamia nuts, all iconic Australian snacks. Embrace the country's love for nature with souvenirs like cuddly koala or kangaroo plush toys, opal jewelry mined from the Australian outback, or skincare products infused with native botanicals like tea tree oil or eucalyptus. For a touch of Aussie fashion, consider a stylish Akubra hat or a pair of Ugg boots.
No matter your preference, Australia's souvenirs are sure to capture the essence of this captivating country and serve as cherished reminders of your trip.
Opening hours of shops and banks. In Australia, the opening hours of shops and banks can vary depending on the location and specific establishment. However, here's a general overview:
Shops:
Most shops in Australia are typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM on weekdays (Monday to Friday).
Many shops also open on weekends, with slightly reduced hours. Saturday hours are usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday hours can range from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM or even later in some areas.
Banks:
Banks generally operate from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays (Monday to Thursday) and 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on Fridays.
ATMs are available 24/7 for basic banking transactions.
Online and phone banking services are also available for convenient access outside of regular branch hours.
Important Considerations:
Public holidays can affect the opening hours of both shops and banks, with many businesses closed or operating on reduced hours.
In smaller towns or rural areas, shops and banks might have shorter operating hours compared to those in larger cities.
It's always advisable to check the specific opening hours of the shop or bank you plan to visit, especially if you are traveling to a new area or during holidays.
Pharmacies. Very few medicines can be bought without a prescription. If you need any particular medicines, it is better to take your own from home. Otherwise, to get a prescription, you must visit a New Zealand GP who does not work on weekends. Pharmacies operate in the same mode as shops, but in large cities there are round-the-clock pharmacies.
Tips. It is not necessary to give them, but in restaurants they will be gratefully accepted, although the waiters do not expect them.
Transport. If you have not ordered the services of a guide-driver, then to move around the city we recommend using taxi services or public transport (Uber is the best option).
Australia boasts a well-developed public transport system that caters to the needs of both residents and visitors. In major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, extensive networks of trains, trams, and buses offer convenient and efficient travel options. These systems are complemented by ferries and light rail services in certain areas, further enhancing accessibility. Tickets and passes can be purchased at stations, online, or through convenient mobile apps, making travel hassle-free. For those exploring regional areas or smaller towns, buses and coaches are the primary mode of transport, connecting various destinations across the vast Australian landscape. With comfortable seating, air conditioning, and often Wi-Fi onboard, these services provide a pleasant and enjoyable journey. Whether navigating bustling city centers or venturing into the scenic countryside, Australia's public transport options ensure that travelers can easily explore the country's diverse attractions.
If you rent a car in Australia and drive yourself, be sure to bring your international license or have your driver's license translated into English. The translation must be certified by a licensed translator.
Phone calls and Internet. We recommend that you use the Airalo service or similar and install an e-sim at home in advance, buy an Australian tariff by selecting the required number of gigabytes, and activate it after arriving in Australia. To do this, your phone must support e-sim cards.
As for the free wi-fi zone, you will find them in hotels, cafes and restaurants, tour operator offices.
To call Australia, dial +61 + city code + phone number.
Emergency number is 000. It connects you to police, fire, or ambulance services.
Safety. Australia is widely considered a safe country with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, taking precautions and being aware of your surroundings is essential. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas and avoid walking alone late at night. In remote or natural areas, take precautions against the elements and potential wildlife encounters. It's also crucial to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during the summer months. Swim only at designated beaches with lifeguards and follow any safety warnings or guidelines. Familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and keep important contact information readily available. By exercising common sense and adhering to safety recommendations, you can enjoy a secure and worry-free trip to Australia.
We wish you a pleasant and safe journey!
What to take with you to Australia?
Comments