Australia: a large, diverse country full of wildlife, nature, adventure, beauty, many vibrant cities, friendly locals with an original sense of humour and a unique way of life: these tips will make your trip even better!
Don't Feel Obliged To Tip
Tipping isn't the standard practice in Australia. Serving staff don't rely on tips so don't feel obliged however, if this is something you'd like to do- go right ahead! If you'd like to find out more about tipping around the world, check out this guide.
Don't Get Offended When Locals Swear
Bloody, bugger, crap? These are just normal everyday words for Aussies. Yuu may hear a fair few more than these 3, so this is just a heads up so you know what you're in for!
Do Adhere To Australian Road Rules
Australia is known to boast an abundance of rules and regulations. These are strictly enforced and the locals don't think twice about adhering to them. Don't risk it and break the speed limit even by a kilometre- they don't even let that slide. They work on a demerit system wehre every eoffence leads to points on your name and if you hit the threshold, without blinking you can lose your license. Beware of sneaky hidden cameras and follow all road signs and speed limits.
Don't Drink And Drive
The blood alcohol limit is 0.05% throughout Australia. Its just not worth it. Don't even consider driving after you've had even a sip. There are so often random roadblocks breathalising drivers. Make sure you carry your license with you always, wear a seatbelt and have your cellphone far out of reach. As mentioned above, do adhere to the road rules here.
Do Be Aware That Australia Is A Big Country
At 7 692 024 square kilometres, it is the world's 6th largest country. Therefore driving from one side to the other is not just a day trip. Bear this in mind when planning your trip and holiday itinerary. The 2,413.4km from Sydney to Cairns will take you about 27 hours. Sydney to Melbourne is a 10 hour journey. Plan for this!
Do Drink Coffee
Australia is known for good coffee and an awesome coffee culture. Independent coffee shops have always thrived. Our top pick for the city with the best coffee culture is Melbourne. Check out this guide to the best coffee shops in Melbourne.
© The Trend Spotter
Do Understand That Aussies Love To Shorten Words.
Aussies love abbreviations. From G'day (Good day), to cuppa (cup of tea), to Macca's (Macdonalds),to Cabbie's (Taxi Drivers), you'll have to keep an ear open and be ready to learn fast. Here is a helpful list so you can see what you're in for!
Do Carry ID
When you go to bars or clubs, especially in the bigger cities, it is important to have an ID on you. They tend to check and you don't want to be stuck outside on holiday!
©Campari House Melbourne
Do Try Vegemite
Aussies love it. There must be something in it. Win the locals over with your willingness to try new things. Insider tip: The more butter on your Vegemite toast the better.
©Buzzfeed
Do Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide
Australia is known for a harsh sun. You don't want to be the tourist that gets burnt on your first day on the beach. Slip(on a shirt), slop(on the sunscreen), slap (on a hat), seek (shade or shelter) and slide(on some sunglasses) is the Cancer Council's SunSmart program and do go by it to protect yourself.
©Trip Savvy
Do Obey The General Rules And Regulations
This tip will stand you in good stead for your holiday. From making sure you swim between the flags at beaches to ensuring you always ride your bike with a helmet, your trip should be a smooth one!
