Australia is a fantastic country. It is incredibly large, beautiful, and peculiar. Soon the high season begins, and tens of thousands of people will be traveling to visit this corner of the world.
Here are the 5 things you have to know before coming to Australia.
Unless you spend more than 6 months touring the country, you will not be able to see everything. I know it may sound a bit disappointing, but this is not surprising when we consider Australia to be the 6th largest country in the world.
With its 7,692,024 km², it is larger than ALL the countries of the European Union TOGETHER. Even so, it has one of the lowest population densities in the world, with just 2.6 inhabitants / km². Amazing, right?
The cost of things in Australia is high. This is often an impact on tourists. High prices are related to high salaries as well. That is why it is an excellent idea to have a Visa that allows you to work if you plan to be in Australia for several months.
For flights, use the low-cost airlines you already know. Cooking is always a good idea. Supermarkets offer a massive variety of products of all kinds. The most economical option is usually Aldi supermarkets. Almost all of Australia’s parks have free electric grills so you can enjoy a beautiful day outdoors.
Beware of alcohol. It is costly. On a party night, it is very easy to spend more than 30 dollars.
Even if your English is good, there will be several words you will not understand. They are slight differences, but sometimes it is convenient to know them. However, you will eventually recognize their meanings from everyday conversation.
Also, do not ask for directions to the “downtown” but the “CBD” (Central Business District). If you need medicine, do not ask for a “pharmacy”; instead, you should say “the nearest chemist.” If someone invites you to have tea, it often involves dinner.
Many words usually shorten them, like avo = avocado; arvo = afternoon; barbie = bbq; breaky = breakfast. Yes, they probably shorten your name too when you meet your Australian friends.
Yes, you will see kangaroos and koalas. However, it is not that they walk down the street without rules. They live in their habitats. It is usually accessible in nature reserves, sanctuaries, and parks.
The animals that tend to be more in residential areas are bats, weasels, birds of all kinds, lizards, and some vipers and spiders. However, locals already know how to deal with them effectively.
Tipping in Australia is a rare practice. You are not expected to tip in bars, restaurants, or taxis. Neither in the hotel nor after a haircut.
Almost all workers in Australia paid well and with the highest minimum wage in the world (currently above AUD 18 per hour). Therefore, they don’t need a tip to live well.
If you recognize an excellent service, you can leave a tip and congratulate it with the Shift Manager. Sometimes, it is necessary to clarify that you leave a tip.
That’s all for now! Are you ready with your Australia Visa? Let me know in the comment below!