Hints and tips in Australia

Ayres Rock, Australia
Have an awesome time while on your trip but remember to respect the local culture in Australia.  Here are a few Australia travel tips & advice to help you with any possible culture shock!

Aboriginal performance
While you’re in Australia make sure you get to attend an Aboriginal music and dance performance. It’s a great opportunity to hear the low-pitched drone of the didgeridoo, a wind instrument made from a small hollow tree trunk...

Beaches
Don't be surprised by what they wear (or don't wear) on the beaches!

Vegemite
Try some!  It’s a yeast spread which that has the same standing that peanut butter has in North America. But it's best to start with a small taste (and we mean small)...

Barbie (bbq) etiquette
If an Aussie invites you over for a barbie you’ll be expected to bring your own wine or beer, and probably your own meat as well.  The general stereotype is that Aussie ‘blokes’ stand around the bbq with a beer, while the ‘sheila’s’ (Aussie women) gossip and prepare salads. The dress code is casual.

Croc safety
There are two types in Australia – the freshwater and saltwater varieties.  The more-dangerous saltwater crocs can be found in tidal estuaries but can travel to freshwater areas, sometimes as far as 300 km upstream.  Make sure you read the local warning signs and take extra care in tidal estuaries.  Avoid swimming, paddling or camping near water in crocodile infested areas, and if in a boat avoid leaning out of it.

Sunscreen
No matter where you are in Australia or what season it is, always remember your sunscreen.  The sun in the southern hemisphere is much stronger than in the northern hemisphere and burn time can be as quick as 8 minutes.  It’s best to wear a shirt and put on a hat while enjoying the great outdoors. Sunscreen containing SPF30+ coverage is recommended and buying it down under is probably best so you get the strong stuff!

*The Small Print
We’ve tried to make this destination guide as accurate as possible but please double check the essentials like visas, health and safety, airport information etc with the relevant authorities before you travel.  STA Travel takes no responsibility for loss, injury or inconvenience caused as a result of this guide.  All prices listed are in the currency of the destination, unless otherwise stated.

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