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ABOUT US
Welcome traveler!
We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.
We have over two decades of travel experience and since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.
Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.
AUSTRALIA TRAVEL GUIDE
Australia rivals the USA in size but is home to only 25 million people - giving it one of the lowest population densities on earth. Every aspect of Australian life and culture is a direct result of the scale of this contemporary country and its population.
Australia is a land of savage beauty and huge horizons just begging to be explored. It's touted as the ultimate adventure travel destination and even if it's golden beaches, rain forests and iconic outback doesn't tickle your fancy you will find its major cities to be outstanding destinations in their own right. When taken as a whole, the sum of Australia's numerous contrasts is exactly what makes it a destination equally fascinating as it is diverse.
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Capital: Canberra
Currency : Australian dollar ($, AUD)
Area: 7,741,220 km²
Population: 24,953,887 (Australian Bureau of Statistics)
Language: English (spoken by everyone), numerous other languages are spoken. Aboriginal Australian languages still are spoken in some Aboriginal communities even though many of these languages have been lost.
Electricity: 240V, 50Hz (plug Type I)
Fun Facts: Australia boasts a diverse ecosystem, with species like the kangaroo and platypus found nowhere else on Earth. It's also home to the world's longest fence, the 'Dingo Fence', which stretches over 5,530 kilometers. Additionally, Australia has a vibrant sports culture, with over 70% of its population participating in some form of recreational activity or sports weekly.
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SEASONS AT A GLANCE
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
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BEST TIME TO VISIT AUSTRALIA
The best time to visit Australia depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. Australia is a large country with a varied climate, so the weather can be quite different from one region to another.
Spring to summer (October to March) is warm or hot everywhere, tropical in the north, and warm to hot with mild nights in the south. This period is the classic tourist season when northern hemisphere visitors seek to escape winter temperatures and soak up some sunshine, although Australia is essentially a year-round destination.
For a week - beginning at the end of October to mid to late November (depending on area) - Australian teenagers finishing high school (known as "Schoolies"), will celebrate the end of their school term. The sheer volume of teen revellers can completely change the nature of some of the cities and towns they visit during this time - particularly the popular Gold Coast.
If you want to visit the beaches and enjoy the warm weather, the best time to visit is during the summer months of December, January, and February. This is also a good time to visit the Great Barrier Reef, as the water is warm and the weather is generally sunny and clear.
If you want to visit the Outback and see the natural beauty of the country, the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This is also a good time to visit Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) and other landmarks in the desert regions.
If you want to experience the ski season, you can visit the ski resorts in the Snowy Mountains during the winter months of June, July, and August.
Overall, the best time to visit Australia is during the shoulder seasons of March-April and September-October, when the weather is generally pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
BEST TIME FOR:
Australia offers a plethora of hiking and cycling opportunities, catering to various skill levels and preferences. For hiking enthusiasts, the Overland Track in Tasmania is a renowned multi-day wilderness hike, best tackled between October and May.
Cyclists can enjoy the diverse landscapes year-round, with the southern states being perfect for summer rides, while the northern and central areas are more suitable during the winter months.
Regardless of the activity, it's crucial to stay informed about local weather conditions and to carry sufficient water, as Australian weather can be unpredictable and water sources scarce. Always check the latest travel advice and trail conditions before embarking on your adventure.
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AUSTRALIA TRAVEL COSTS
Australian prices always come as a shock if you had travelled from Southeast Asia, but now with the strong AUS dollar and the booming economy, Australia can now easily feel as expensive as Europe or the US, especially for food and drink. This is most noticeable in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and the WA mining towns – the cost of living has crept up over the years and any prolonged length of time spent in these places will quickly drain savings.
The cost of traveling to Australia can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, including the time of year you go, how you get there, where you stay, and what you do while you're there. Here are some rough estimates of the costs you might incur when visiting Australia:
- Airfare: $700 to $1,500 or more, depending on your departure city and when you book
- Accommodation: $100 to $200 per night for a budget hotel, $200 to $400 per night for a mid-range hotel, $400 or more for a luxury hotel
- Transportation: $20 to $50 per day for a rental car, $5 to $10 per day for a public transportation pass
- Food and drink: $30 to $50 per day for meals, depending on your dining preferences
- Activities: $50 to $100 per day for tours, attractions, and activities
Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and the actual costs will depend on your specific travel plans and preferences.
Here are some additional tips to help you save money when visiting Australia:
- Consider staying in a vacation rental or hostel instead of a hotel to save on accommodation costs.
- Look for deals and discounts on tours, attractions, and activities.
- Eat at local restaurants and markets instead of tourist areas to save on food costs.
- Avoid traveling during peak season, when prices are generally higher.
- Consider purchasing a travel insurance policy to protect against unexpected costs.
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TRAVEL TIPS FOR AUSTRALIA
Here are some travel tips for Australia:
- Plan your trip in advance: Australia is a large country with a lot to see and do, so it's a good idea to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your time. Consider what you want to see and do, and research the best way to get around.
- Pack wisely: Australia has a varied climate, so it's important to pack clothes that can be layered. Bring a mix of lightweight, breathable clothes for the warmer weather and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. It's also a good idea to pack comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be doing a lot of walking.
- Get travel insurance: Australia has a high standard of healthcare, but it can be expensive if you need to see a doctor or go to the hospital. It's a good idea to get travel insurance to protect against unexpected costs.
- Respect the wildlife: Australia is home to many unique and interesting animals, but it's important to respect their space. Don't feed the animals, and keep your distance from wildlife, especially if it looks dangerous.
- Stay safe: Australia is generally a safe country to visit, but it's always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Have fun: Above all, Australia is a fun and exciting place to visit. Don't be afraid to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. You're sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip!
Australia is a large and diverse country, and it can be divided into several regions:
The East Coast: The East Coast is home to some of Australia's most iconic cities and landmarks, including Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Gold Coast. Highlights of this region include the Sydney Opera House, the beaches of Bondi and Manly, and the scenic Blue Mountains.
The Outback: The Outback is the vast, remote region of central and western Australia, known for its rugged landscape and unique wildlife. Highlights of this region include Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), the Red Centre, and the Kimberley region.
The West Coast: The West Coast is known for its pristine beaches, beautiful national parks, and vibrant cities like Perth and Broome. Highlights of this region include the Margaret River wine region, the Pinnacles Desert, and the Ningaloo Reef.
The South Coast: The South Coast is home to some of Australia's most beautiful beaches and natural landscapes, including the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians National Park. Highlights of this region include the Twelve Apostles, the wineries of the Yarra Valley, and the Phillip Island Penguin Parade.
The Northern Territory: The Northern Territory is a vast and rugged region known for its unique wildlife, natural beauty, and Indigenous culture. Highlights of this region include Kakadu National Park, Arnhem Land, and the Katherine Gorge.
Considering the vastness of Australia, deciding where to go will always be a juggle between how much time it takes to cover distance and your budget. (Flight time from Melbourne to Perth is more than 4 hours!). With such an expansive tourism industry and an excess of places to see and visit, one could easily spend months driving around the outback, explore national parks, or just hang out on vast, sandy beaches. Or you could hit the popular trinity of Sydney, Barrier Reef, and Uluru in short 2 weeks. Either option is bound to leave you wanting more as you will barely scrape the surface of this vast and diverse country.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN AUSTRALIA
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There are many amazing things to see and do when visiting Australia. Here are just a few suggestions:
Visit Sydney: Sydney is Australia's largest city and home to many iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.
Explore the Great Barrier Reef: The Great Barrier Reef is the world's largest coral reef system and home to an incredible variety of marine life. You can snorkel or dive to explore the reef or take a boat tour to see it from above.
Visit the Outback: The Outback is the vast, remote region of central and western Australia, known for its rugged landscape and unique wildlife. You can visit Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) or take a tour of the Red Centre to learn about the region's Indigenous history and culture.
Explore the national parks: Australia is home to many beautiful national parks, including the Daintree Rainforest, the Grampians, and the Blue Mountains. You can go hiking, camping, or wildlife watching in these parks to experience the country's natural beauty.
Visit the wineries: Australia is home to many world-class wineries, particularly in the regions of the Barossa Valley and the Yarra Valley. You can take a tour of the wineries to taste the local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Go surfing: Australia is known for its excellent surf, and there are many great spots to catch a wave along the East Coast and the West Coast.
Experience Indigenous culture: Australia has a rich Indigenous culture, and there are many opportunities to learn about it when visiting the country. You can visit an Indigenous cultural center, go on a tour with an Indigenous guide, or participate in traditional activities like painting, weaving, or didgeridoo playing.
CITIES
Australian cities are surprisingly cosmopolitan and waves of postwar immigration from southern Europe and, more recently, Southeast Asia have done loads to erode Australia’s original Anglo-centrist culture somewhat.
Canberra - the purpose-built national capital of Australia usually fails to grip the attention of visitors, but away from the suburbs is the transitional 'bush' and beyond that the wilderness of the Outback.
Adelaide - the modern-day wine capital of the world and a relaxed South Australian alternative to the big eastern cities.
Brisbane - the capital of sun-drenched Queensland and gateway to beautiful white, sandy beaches.
Cairns - the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Port Douglas, Daintree National Park, and many stunning beaches and resorts.
Darwin - Australia's tropical northern capital, at the top end of the Northern Territory.
Hobart - picturesque and quiet capital of Tasmania, the site of the second convict settlement in Australia.
Melbourne - Australia's second-largest city, Melbourne is a large sporting, shopping and cultural capital and regarded as Australia's most European city in style.
Perth - the most remote continental capital city on Earth, on the south-western edge of Western Australia
Sydney - Australia's oldest and largest city, famous for its picturesque harbour.
ISLANDS
Lord Howe Island - Two hours flying time from Sydney, with a permanent population, and comprehensive developed facilities.
Norfolk Island - Direct flights from the East Coast and from Auckland with a permanent population and well-developed facilities.
Christmas Island - Famous for its red crab migration. Reachable from Perth and Kuala Lumpur.
Cocos Islands - Coral atolls, accessible by flights from Perth, with some facilities for tourism.
Torres Strait Islands - between Cape York and Papua New Guinea, most islands have some traveller facilities but require permission from the traditional owners to visit. Reachable from Cairns.
Kangaroo Island - The third largest island in Australia and a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.
Though often overlooked, Tasmania is well worth the trip across the Bass Strait. For your effort, you will find vast tracts of temperate wilderness and a wealth of scenery, from alpine mountains to quaint villages.
OTHER DESTINATIONS
Blue Mountains - a mountainous region in New South Wales, including the Three Sisters.
Dandenong Ranges - these beautiful ranges offer world-class gardens and the picturesque villages of Mt. Dandenong.
Great Barrier Reef - off the coast of Queensland, easily accessible from Cairns, and even as far south as the Town of 1770.
Great Ocean Road - a spectacular coastal drive in Victoria past many scenic icons including the Twelve Apostles.
Kakadu National Park - outback adventure travel, aboriginal culture and nature activities in the Northern Territory.
Nitmiluk National Park - the amazing Katherine Gorge, close to the town of Katherine.
Gold Coast - famous beach-side and national park playground south of Brisbane.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are iconic rock formations in the Red Centre.
Watarrka National Park - most famous for Kings Canyon, a mighty chasm reaching a depth of 270 metres.
WHAT TO EAT IN AUSTRALIA
Australia has a diverse food culture, with influences from many different cuisines. Here are some local dishes and ingredients you should try when visiting Australia:
Barbecue: Australia has a strong barbecue culture, and you'll find many "barbie" events and BBQ restaurants throughout the country. Try some grilled meat, like beef, lamb, or pork, and don't forget to add some salads and vegetables to your plate.
Seafood: Australia has an abundance of fresh seafood, and you'll find many seafood restaurants and markets throughout the country. Try some local specialties like oysters, prawns, and fish and chips.
Meat pies: Meat pies are a popular snack in Australia, and you'll find them at bakeries and convenience stores throughout the country. They are small pies filled with meat and vegetables, and they are a great option for a quick and tasty meal on the go.
Vegemite: Vegemite is a spread made from yeast extract, and it is a popular condiment in Australia. It has a strong, salty flavor, and it is typically spread on toast or sandwiches.
Tim Tams: Tim Tams are a popular chocolate biscuit in Australia, and they are made from layers of chocolate biscuit and cream, coated in chocolate. They are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Lamingtons: Lamingtons are a traditional Australian dessert made from squares of sponge cake coated in chocolate and desiccated coconut. They are usually served with cream or strawberry jam.
LGBTQ IN AUSTRALIA
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WHERE TO STAY IN AUSTRALIA
For first-time visitors to Australia, choosing the right area or region to stay in is crucial for a memorable experience. Here are some recommendations along with accommodation suggestions for each category: budget, mid-range, and luxury.
Where to stay in Sydney:
Sydney is Australia's most iconic city, known for its stunning harbor, world-famous landmarks, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the country.
Budget: Wake Up! Sydney Central - A centrally located hostel offering affordable dormitory-style rooms with modern amenities.
Mid-range: Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection - Stylish waterfront hotel with comfortable rooms and breathtaking views of the Sydney Opera House.
Luxury: Hyatt Regency Sydney - Luxurious accommodations with unparalleled views of the harbor, impeccable service, and exquisite dining options.
Where to stay in Melbourne:
Melbourne is renowned for its artsy vibe, eclectic neighborhoods, world-class dining, and thriving coffee culture, offering a perfect blend of sophistication and laid-back charm.
Budget: Melbourne City Backpackers - Located in the heart of the city, this hostel provides budget travelers with clean and comfortable accommodations.
Mid-range: QT Melbourne - A chic boutique hotel featuring stylish rooms, innovative design, and a central location near top attractions.
Luxury: The Langham, Melbourne - Elegant rooms, exceptional service, and indulgent amenities including a lavish spa and award-winning dining options.
Where to stay in Cairns:
Cairns serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the lush rainforests of Far North Queensland, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration.
Budget: Mad Monkey Backpackers Village - A lively hostel with affordable dormitory-style rooms and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Mid-range: Rydges Esplanade Resort Cairns - Comfortable accommodations with tropical surroundings, multiple swimming pools, and easy access to the Esplanade.
Luxury: Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina, Cairns - A luxurious waterfront hotel offering spacious rooms, stunning views, and upscale amenities including a rooftop pool and fine dining options.
Where to stay in Perth:
Perth is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and relaxed lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine and outdoor activities.
Budget: The Witch's Hat Backpackers - A charming hostel located in the trendy suburb of Northbridge, offering budget-friendly accommodations and a social atmosphere.
Mid-range: QT Perth - A stylish hotel featuring contemporary design, comfortable rooms, and a convenient location in the city center.
Luxury: COMO The Treasury - Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, this luxurious hotel offers elegant rooms, exceptional service, and fine dining experiences.