The best things come to those who wait, and although you may need a book or ten for the plane ride there, Australia is a dream holiday or travelling destination. It has everything from the big outdoors of the Australian Bush, some of the world’s best beaches as well as the exciting modern city attractions of Sydney and Melbourne. If you are thinking of visiting the world’s largest island, take a look at these tops tips below to help plan your trip.
When to travel?
The Australian Summer is from December to February, so if it’s hot weather you are looking for that’s the time to travel. If you have a shoestring budget you would however be advised to plan a visit for the shoulder months of October and November, or March and April when travel tickets and accommodation costs are far cheaper.
Where to visit?
If it’s art you are into and you want a good taste of Australian culture, Melbourne is a hotspot of galleries, music and great coffee shops. Meanwhile Sydney is the global capital of surfing, classy restaurants, shops, clubs and bars. Other main cities such as Brisbane and Perth have their own distinct character as well and if you’re backpacking and not strapped for time, they are also well worth a visit.
Nature lovers should plan a visit to some of Australia’s incredible national parks such as Kakadu in the Northern Territory which is home to everything from crocodiles, sensational birdlife to some of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal art. Uluru-Kata Tjuta in the center of the country opens a world of beautiful red rock formations likely to take your breath away.
For those attracted to water, Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef is an awesome sight and a must visit especially if coral and snorkeling is your thing. Meanwhile, wine lovers can plan a tour of Southern Australia’s Barossa Valley, Mclaren Vale, Coonawarra and Adelaide Hills.
Planning your domestic travel
Australia doesn’t really do major inland cities so travelling from city to city, although an amazing adventure, can take its time. The cost of flights is not too expensive and if you book early enough in advance you’ll find the prices drop a little.
Accommodation
Of course, Australia does have plenty of hotels but if you’re thinking of a longer trip and want to keep your spending down, you are well advised to look into some of the many hostels, motels, camping and caravan sites as well as tailor made backpacker accommodation available.
Another popular choice is serviced apartments where you will find all the comforts of a hotel room for considerably cheaper because you can cook for yourselves and save on costly hotel or restaurant meals. For some ideas check out Aluxstay serviced apartments for an idea of what’s available.
Vaccinations and staying safe
You don’t require vaccinations to travel to Australia unless you have visited a country where yellow fever is rife within six days of your arrival. If you are planning a backpacking trip it is especially advisable to check online for other tips to make sure you stay safe in Australia. Also it is vitally important to take out good reliable travel insurance particularly if you are planning to do any outrageous adventure sports.
Lastly, have a great time and enjoy your trip!