AustraliaThings to Know

Can I drink the tap water in Australia?

You can drink tap water throughout Australia, however, it’s important to verify the water quality standards in more rural areas of the country.

How much is a vacation to Australia? 

Prices to Australia can vary greatly depending on the style of trip, duration, destinations, and level of accommodation. Typically, for a week-long Australia vacation, an individual traveller should budget at least $3,000, not including international airfare. 

When is summer vacation in Australia? 

Since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, summer vacation takes place from December until late January or early February. This vacation period also coincides with the Christmas holidays. This is considered the best time to visit Australia by many.

Do I need to wear sunscreen in Australia? 

Australia has some of the harshest sun in the world, with high UV radiation levels. Be prepared to heavily apply sunscreen and wear a hat when outdoors in Australia, especially in the iconic Outback, on a cruise, at an all inclusive, or on any of the country’s many beaches, including Bondi Beach in Sydney. 

What are the best vacation spots in Australia? 

For the first-time visitor, the most popular Australia vacation spots are Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef in Tropical North Queensland, and the Red Centre of the Northern Territory, where you’ll find Uluru/Ayers Rock. The beauty of Australia is that it’s so vast and diverse. There are travel opportunities for every kind of person, and many other vacation spots that will dazzle travellers, including Adelaide and small group tours of Kangaroo Island in South Australia, Perth in Western Australia, and the island state of Tasmania. 

How to plan a vacation to Australia? 

Get in touch with a Goway Destination Specialist! We’re the leading tailor-made travel agency for Australia vacations and have the expertise and insights to plan a trip that’s right for you. 

How long can you vacation in Australia? 

An Electronic Travel Authority (eTA)—which is distinct from, and often used in place of a travel visa—allows a stay of up to three months, so take advantage of your Australia trip and explore the massive nation in full. While you can certainly explore a single spot in Australia in as little as a few days, you should spend a minimum of a week in Australia. Ideal trips last at least three weeks and allow you to see a variety of states and Australia’s diverse natural environments. It also allows you to acclimate after the long international flight and accompanying jet lag. 

Does Australia have halal options? 

Halal options are common in the major cities of Australia. Most beef and lamb in the nation are halal-certified, and many other foods come in halal options. However, halal options may be limited in smaller communities and in the nation’s interior. If you are still concerned, ask your travel guide about vacation packages that can accommodate your dietary needs.

Does an Australia tourist visa require an interview? 

No, a tourist visa for North American travellers does not require an interview. If you are travelling for the purposes of work or to stay beyond the three-month tourist allowance, an interview might be required, but for the majority of travellers, an interview is not required to secure an Australia trip visa or ETA. 

Is travel safe as a person of colour (POC) in Australia? 

Australia is a very safe nation for all manner of travellers, with a diverse population and strong laws protecting visitors from discrimination based on ethnicity. It is one of the most peaceful countries in the world and has a low crime rate. 

Is Australia LGBTQ+ friendly? 

Yes, as mentioned above, Australia is a diverse and safe nation, which has strong laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. People are welcoming and accepting, especially in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, which have large pride parades and diverse neighbourhoods that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community. While attitudes might be more conservative in smaller centres away from the major cities, the vast majority of Australians are respectful and welcoming of all travellers. 

What side of the road do people drive on in Australia? 

People drive on the left side of the road in Australia. The driver’s seat is on the right side of the car. Remember that basic elements of the car are reversed for North American drivers, so the driver’s seat is on the right side and the windshield wipers and turn signals are on opposite sides. 

What can I bring into Australia? 

As long as you declare it, you can bring most items into Australia, except for weapons, illicit drugs, and all manner of illegal goods. You’re also not allowed to bring animals, live plants, counterfeit goods, and fireworks. 

Do I need to tip in Australia? 

Tipping in Australia is not mandatory or expected. Instead, service charges are often added to your bill as a declared part of the total cost. Any tips for exceptional service are above and beyond expectations. 

What currency does Australia use? 

The official currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). You’ll find ATMs throughout the country where you can exchange for Australian Dollars, so don’t worry too much about bringing cash with you (although doing so can save you on the withdrawal rates on foreign ATMs). Typically, $1USD is worth $1.50 AUD, but exchange rates are always fluctuating, so check the latest rates before travelling.