Travel Tips
Australia
The Great Barrier Reef, the Outback and vibrant coastal cities make Australia a big, rewarding journey.
What I love about Australia
People often ask me what I love most about a country. Every country has its good and bad sides, but here I share the positives I found on my travels.
Like Canada, it has far fewer people than Europe or the United States, so you get beautiful beaches and wide open space.
North of Perth in Western Australia, the roads are so empty that you can go 10 or 15 minutes without seeing another car.
- Capital
- Canberra
- Currency
- Australian dollar (AUD)
- Language
- English
- Best overall
- Varies: September to November and March to May suit many regions
- Emergency
- 000
- Electricity
- 230V, plug type I
Top Destinations
Most visitors need a visa or electronic authorization such as an ETA or eVisitor before traveling. Use the official Australian government site. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Remember that the seasons are reversed. The tropical north is best from May to October, and the south is best from spring to autumn.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Sydney
The Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and beaches.
Great Barrier Reef
World-famous snorkeling and diving from Cairns or the Whitsundays.
Uluru
The sacred red rock in the Outback.
Melbourne
Laneways, coffee and the Great Ocean Road nearby.
Tasmania
Wild coasts, walks and great food.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 Sydney
- Days 5 to 7 Melbourne, by air
- Days 8 to 9 Uluru, by air
- Days 10 to 13 Great Barrier Reef, via Cairns
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Fly between regions, as distances are vast. Traffic drives on the left.
- Allow extra time and care when driving in the Outback.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Cards and tap payments are almost universal. Tipping is not generally expected.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Meat pie.
- Fresh barramundi or other seafood.
- Flat white coffee.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Respect sun, surf and wildlife warnings, and swim between the flags.
- Declare food at customs, as biosecurity rules are strict.
Planning a trip to Australia?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.