Australia: The Complete Guide to Down Under
Everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to Australia: visas, transport, climate and practical advice.
Australia is the world's sixth-largest country, located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific. Its countless natural wonders make it an ideal destination for an unforgettable, fun and exciting holiday, always filled with discovery and adventure.
National parks, rainforests thousands of years old, stunning white beaches, the magnificent colours of the Australian outback with the unforgettable Ayers Rock, Aboriginal culture and much more make Australia one of the most popular destinations for travellers worldwide.
Always new and geared towards discovery is a visit to the urban centres: from Sydney to Melbourne, Darwin to Hobart, Brisbane, Perth, Cairns, Adelaide and Canberra. A unique adventure… Australia will become part of your reality and will no longer be just the "distant land where kangaroos and koalas live".
DOCUMENTS & VISAS
A passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date is required. In addition to a passport, an entry visa is mandatory. The "electronic" tourist visa (ETA – Electronic Travel Authority) is free and can be obtained online at the Australian Government website: www.australia.gov.au/
CUSTOMS: There are strict restrictions on importing food, natural products, sporting equipment and more. Check the Australian government website before departing.
WHEN TO GO & CLIMATE
Australia is located south of the equator, so its seasons are reversed compared to Europe: summer runs from December to March and winter from June to September.
Australian seasons:
Spring: September to November
Summer: December to February
Autumn: March to May
Winter: June to August
LOCAL TRANSPORT
Australia is a huge country, but getting around is very straightforward.
PLANE: The best way to cover long distances. Qantas, Virgin Australia, Jetstar, Rex and others serve all capitals.
BUS: Comfortable and efficient. Greyhound hop-on hop-off passes available.
CAR: Good road network. International licence required. Drive on the left.
TRAIN: Indian Pacific (Sydney–Perth) and the legendary Ghan (Adelaide–Darwin).
FERRY: Spirit of Tasmania, SeaLink, Rottnest Express.
CURRENCY & LANGUAGE
LOCAL CURRENCY: Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards widely accepted.
LANGUAGE: English is the official language. A multicultural nation.
WHAT TO WEAR
Informal and comfortable. Trekking shoes, cap, sweatshirt and light windproof jacket. The sun is very strong: use high-protection sunscreen and sunglasses.
ELECTRICITY
220–240 volts, AC 50Hz. An adapter for European plugs is required.
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