So, you made the decision to go Down Under, huh? Excellent choice. With its incredibly diverse landscape, vibrant cities and absolutely unique wildlife, Australia offers a captivating destination for adventure seekers and explorers alike.
From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the ancient wonder of Uluru, the continent promises an unforgettable journey. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit, however, quite a bit of planning needs to be done beforehand. We’ve tailored a comprehensive guide for all those Brits out there, who’d like to explore Australia’s wonders.
Essentials First: Visas and Documentation
Before embarking on your adventure, you actually need to make sure that you’re going to be let into the country first – so securing the right travel documentation is paramount. UK citizens require a valid visa to enter Australia, with the most common choice for tourists being the Visitor Visa (subclass 600), which permits stays of up to 12 months for leisure of travel purposes.
However, if you’re planning on working or even living there, a different one might need to be issued. To be sure, AuVisa can help you pick the right type of visa. The application process can be conveniently completed online for either. Also, make sure that your passport is still valid for at least six months after the intended end of your travel – another crucial criterion.
Health and Travel Insurance
Australia boasts modern healthcare facilities and is home to a very capable system. However, insurance should still be a must to cover unforeseen medical expenses and other emergencies – which can and will always happen.
Healthcare costs in Australia can otherwise be quite high for non-residents, making it basically an essential safety net during your visit. It’s easy to decide to skip out on it, but trust us, you really don’t.
Especially for longer stays – but really, better safe than sorry. There are also some vaccinations you should get – so having an appointment with your GP a couple of months prior is also advised. If you ever find yourself in an emergency, 000 is the number for police, fire and ambulance services.
Know your Currency, Etiquette and Language
The Australian currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD), and currency exchange is readily available at banks, airports, and special exchange offices. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is always advisable to carry some cash – especially if you are opting for smaller purchases or are going to be in more remote areas.
Australians are usually known for their friendly and laid-back nature. Politeness and mutual respect are generally highly valued, and greeting people with a simple “G’day” or “Hello” is common. English is the official language, and though there are definitely some cultural differences, communication won’t be a barrier.
Consider the Climate when you are Packing
Australia’s sheer vastness means that it has a broad variety of different climates across the country. Research the weather for your specific destination and pack accordingly – and don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear for those beach visits! Though most of the things, you might want to get locally, anyway.
Enjoy your stay!
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