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AUSTRALIA - TRAVEL GUIDE

With this Australia travel guide, I try to gather in one place the main information you need to travel more and better.

It aims to prepare you to reach this new destination, knowing everything you need to have a smooth, safe trip and avoid the vast majority of problems that every traveler faces.

With this information you will be able to make the best decisions, transforming your vision as if it were a place.

Here you’ll find the top places to visit, what the costs are, a great way to save, recommendations for places to stay, restaurants, transport tips and safety advice.

Even with different ways of traveling, from backpacking, family vacations, cruises, two-week vacations, around the world.

Here you will find everything you need to travel more, better, longer and cheaper.

If you cannot find any information, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will be happy to respond.

About australia

Where it is?

Australia is an island continent in the southern hemisphere, located between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

Its location is in Southeast Asia and east of Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.

It is a vast and enchanting country, with several smaller islands around its coasts, including Tasmania and Christmas Island. With its vibrant cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, Australia enchants with its relaxed and welcoming lifestyle, offering a multitude of cultural and natural experiences for those who visit.

Climate

Australia is a huge country, which means that its climate varies significantly in different regions. Due to its size, we can find a wide variety of climates, from tropical to desert and temperate climates. I will briefly highlight the main types of climates found in Australia:

Tropical weather:

Northern Australia, including areas such as North Queensland and the Northern Territory, experiences a tropical climate. These regions have two distinct seasons: the wet season, characterized by frequent and heavy rains during the summer months, and the dry season, with warm temperatures and drier weather during the winter.

Subtropical Climate:

Regions such as the east coast of Queensland and parts of New South Wales have a subtropical climate. Here, summers are hot and humid, while winters are milder.

Temperate Climate:

Most of southeastern Australia, including areas such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide, has a temperate climate. Summers are warm, but not excessively so, and winters can be cold, but rarely extremely cold.

Desert Climate:

Central Australia is dominated by deserts such as the Simpson Desert and the Tanami Desert. In these areas, the climate is extremely dry and hot during the day, but the nights can be quite cold.

Mediterranean climate:

Southwest Australia, including Perth and some areas of South Australia, has a Mediterranean climate. That means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Subpolar climate:

Some parts of Tasmania, especially at high altitudes, have a subpolar climate. This results in cold, snowy winters and cool summers.

Time zone

Australia has multiple time zones due to its geographic size. The main time zones are as follows:

Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): UTC +10 hours. It covers states and territories such as Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and the Australian Capital Territory.

Central Australian Standard Time (ACST): UTC +9:30. It applies to areas such as the Northern Territory and the southern part of South Australia.

Western Australian Standard Time (AWST): UTC +8 hours. Applies to Western Australia.

In addition, Australia may also observe Daylight Saving Time (DST) in some regions, which can add an hour to the above time zones during the summer months, allowing for greater use of sunlight.

Not all areas of Australia observe Daylight Saving Time, and the start and end dates may vary depending on the state or territory.

Money

The currency used in Australia is the Australian dollar (code: AUD). The Australian dollar is the only currency in circulation in the country and is widely accepted in all regions, states and territories of Australia. It is represented by the “$” or “A$” symbol to differentiate it from other currencies that also use the “$” symbol.

The Australian dollar is subdivided into 100 cents, and there are bills of different denominations (such as $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100) and coins (such as 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, $1 and $2).

When visiting Australia, it is recommended to exchange your currency for the local currency or use international credit/debit cards, which are widely accepted in commercial establishments, hotels and restaurants across the country.

Value restrictions

Australia currently requires anyone entering or leaving the country to declare any amount of cash (in foreign currency or Australian dollars) that is equal to or greater than AUD 10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies.

A little of history

Australia’s history is fascinating and rich, spanning thousands of years of cultural and social evolution. Before the arrival of Europeans, the Australian continent was already home to Aboriginal communities, who had a deep connection to the land and a rich set of traditions and beliefs.

The arrival of Europeans to the territory took place in 1606, with the Dutch navigator Willem Janszoon exploring the Queensland region. However, it was in 1770 that Captain James Cook, sailing under the British flag, formally claimed the east coast of the continent for Great Britain.

In the following years, Australia became a place of deportation for criminals and prisoners from Great Britain, with the founding of the penal colony of Sydney in 1788. This British presence gradually expanded across the continent, facing challenges and conflicts with the existing Aboriginal communities.

Throughout the 19th century, Australia experienced rapid population growth, attracting immigrants from around the world in search of gold, farmland and economic opportunity. Australian colonies developed and progressed, establishing local governments and seeking greater autonomy.

In 1901, the colonies united to form the Federation of Australia, becoming an independent nation with its own federal government. Australia maintained ties with Great Britain, becoming a Commonwealth nation.

During both World Wars, Australia supported Great Britain and its allies, and these conflicts had a huge impact on the country, influencing its politics and culture. After World War II, Australia experienced a period of significant economic growth, with immigration playing an important role in shaping a multicultural and diverse society.

Since then, the country has been known for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, popular sports such as cricket and rugby, and its active participation in global affairs.

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Culture

Australia is a multicultural country with rich cultural diversity due to its history of immigration and the coexistence of various ethnic communities. Australian culture is influenced by people from diverse backgrounds such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders (the native indigenous peoples), European settlers, Asians, Middle Easterners, Africans, and many others.

Spoken language

English is the predominant and official language spoken in Australia. As a legacy of the British colonial period, English is the language used in everyday communication, government, business, education, and in all spheres of Australian society.

It is important to point out that although English is the main language, Australia is a culturally diverse nation.

Australia’s Aboriginal peoples also have their indigenous languages, and many of them are still spoken today. These languages have significant cultural value and are protected and preserved by Aboriginal communities.

However, for communication on a national and international level, English is the dominant language and therefore the main language you will encounter when visiting Australia.

Religion

Australia is a secular and religiously diverse nation. According to census data, the majority of the Australian population identifies as Christian, but there is a growing diversity of religious beliefs in the country.

Major religions practiced in Australia include:

Christianity is the largest religion in Australia, with several denominations present. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination, followed by the Anglican Church

various Protestant churches such as the United Church of Australia, and Pentecostal denominations.

No religion: A significant portion of the Australian population identifies as having no specific religion. These people may be agnostics, atheists, or just don’t follow any particular religious faith.

In addition to Christianity and non-religious people, Australia is home to a variety of other religions due to immigration and cultural diversity. This includes Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Judaism, among others.

Gastronomy

Australia’s cuisine is a delicious blend of culinary influences from many cultures around the world, reflecting the country’s diversity.

Australian food combines fresh flavors, high-quality ingredients, and innovative dishes, often highlighting local and seasonal produce. Some hallmarks of Australian cuisine include:

Seafood: Due to the extensive coastline, seafood plays a prominent role in Australian cuisine. Dishes such as grilled shrimp, crab, oysters, and fresh fish are very popular, and Tasmanian lobsters are especially prized.

Barbecue: Barbecue is an essential part of Australian culture. Australians love to grill meats such as steak, sausages, lamb, and chicken, often accompanied by fresh salads and tasty sauces.

Vegemite: An Australian culinary icon, Vegemite is a savory paste made from yeast extract, usually consumed on buttered toast. Australians have a special relationship with this product, and it is an important part of breakfast for many families.

Due to the country’s cultural diversity, Australia offers a wide range of restaurants and establishments serving cuisines from around the world. You can find a variety of Asian, Mediterranean, Indian, and African dishes, among others.

Main dishes

Australian Barbecue (Barbecue):

Barbecuing is an essential part of Australian culture.

Australians love to grill a variety of meats such as steak, sausages, lamb, chicken and seafood, often seasoned with flavorful marinades.

Meat Pie:

Meat Pies are a quick, popular, and iconic meal in Australia. They are pies filled with meat cooked in sauce, typically served with tomato sauce or ketchup.

Fish and Chips:

That’s a much-loved British heritage in Australia. Fish and Chips is a classic dish consisting of fried fish, usually served with fries and tartar sauce.

Vegemite on Toast:

Vegemite is a savory paste made from yeast extract, a product much loved by Australians.

The most common way to consume it is spread over buttered toast, a favorite combination for breakfast or a quick snack.

Lamington:

Lamington is a famous Australian cake consisting of pieces of vanilla cake dipped in a chocolate coating and then in shredded coconut.

Pavlova:

Pavlova is a popular and controversial dessert as Australia and New Zealand dispute its origin. It is a crispy meringue pie, usually in the shape of a nest, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits such as strawberries, kiwi and passion fruit.

What to do in australia

Australia offers a plethora of exciting activities and memorable experiences for visitors. With its diverse range of stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife, vibrant cities, and rich culture, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Australia:

See my trip to Australia.

Explore Cities:

Visit cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, and explore their iconic attractions such as the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge, Eureka Tower, South Bank of Brisbane, and Kings Park in Perth.

Discover the Great Barrier Reef:

Snorkel or dive into some of the most beautiful stretches of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef to marvel at the colorful marine life and stunning coral.

Discover Wildlife:

Visit national parks such as Kakadu National Park in the north and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the center of the country to see Australian wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, emus, and crocodiles.

Explore Tasmania:

Explore Tasmania, an island filled with natural beauty, walking trails, stunning scenery such as Cradle Mountain, and rich colonial history in Hobart.

Visit Fraser Island:

Venture to Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world, with its sand dunes, rainforests, and freshwater lakes.

Experience Aboriginal Culture:

Learn about the rich Aboriginal culture at cultural centers, join Aboriginal tourism tours, and explore Aboriginal rock art sites.

Venture out into the Outback:

Travel through the interior of the country, known as the Outback, and discover arid landscapes, red rocks, and iconic monuments such as Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the Olgas (Kata Tjuta).

Enjoy the Beaches:

Relax on Australia’s beautiful beaches, such as Bondi Beach in Sydney, Surfers Paradise Beach on the Gold Coast, and Whitehaven Beach in the Whitsunday Islands.

Blue Montain

Bondai beach

Brisbane

Foster beach

Spirit of Queensland

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When to go to Australia

As Australia is a large and diverse country in terms of climate, it is important to consider the different regions and seasons before planning your trip.

Spring (September to November):

Spring is a great time to visit Australia as many regions have pleasant weather and mild temperatures. It is ideal for exploring cities, visiting national parks, and enjoying the beautiful flowers in bloom. The southern regions are starting to warm up, and the Great Barrier Reef is ideal for diving and snorkeling at this time.

Summer (December to February):

Summer is hot in most parts of Australia, especially in the north and inland. Coastal towns are popular during the summer as the beaches are perfect for relaxing and water sports.

In the south, the climate is milder, making it a great time to explore cities and wine regions.

Autumn (March to May):

Autumn is another pleasant time to visit Australia, with mild temperatures and less chance of rain. It’s a great time to explore wine regions, hike in national parks, and enjoy cultural festivals.

Winter (June to August):

Winter in Australia can be cold, especially in the southern regions and mountain areas. However, it is a great time to visit the northern region, such as the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical regions, where the climate is milder.

It is also a popular time for snow activities in ski regions such as the Snowy Mountains.

Como chegar

There are no direct flights from Brazil to Sydney.

The shortest route is via Santiago (Chile) or Buenos Aires (Argentina)

For those with an American visa, there are many options via the United States.

see the beginning of my trip around the world.

As I wanted to buy some equipment, I did São Paulo Atlanta, Atlanta Los Angeles, and from Los Angeles to Sydney.

See Skyscanner for some options.

Costs

3 styles and their costs

Backpacker:

Staying in hostels (hostels) using shared dorms, doing your own food and/or local and cheap restaurants, using local transport, exploring the city on foot, and taking tours for free or cheaper.

Daily expenses: from US$ 40.00 to 60.00 per day

Intermediary:

staying in hostels/economical hotels in private rooms, eating in an average restaurant, going to the main paid attractions, and using some taxis and Uber.

Daily spending from USD 100.00 to USD 140.00 per day.

See if Uber is available in the city you are visiting

Luxurious:

Staying in the best hotels, going to all the attractions, hiring more sophisticated packages such as using a helicopter, etc.

Daily Spend: $220.00 and above per day.

How to plan your trip around the world of your dreams.

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Total freedom of choice.
Lower cost because you do not have to pay anyone to do it for you.
You can change your plans at any time and for any reason.
You can cancel, change and simply do not pay fines or penalties.

Getting around

Australia is a large country with several transport options available to move around the country, and the choice will depend on how much time you have and your budget.

Airplane:

To cover long distances between cities, flying is the fastest and most convenient option. Australia has a well-developed aviation system, with several airlines offering domestic flights to various cities and regions.

Train:

Traveling by train is a scenic and relaxing option, especially when crossing spectacular landscapes such as the iconic ‘The Ghan’ route from Adelaide to Darwin or the ‘Indian Pacific’ from Sydney to Perth.

I did the 24-hour trip between Brisbane and Cairn (Coral Barrier).

Bus:

Buses are an economical option for traveling between smaller cities and regions. There are several bus companies operating across Australia, offering popular routes and long-distance services.

Car:

Renting a car is a great option for exploring Australia’s rural and more remote areas, offering flexibility and independence in your travels. Roads are well maintained and safe, making traveling by car a pleasant experience.

Urban public transport:

In major cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, there are well-developed public transport systems including trains, trams, buses, and ferries. These options are convenient for getting around within cities.

How to communicate

In Australia, there are several cell phone operators that offer mobile phone services to consumers.

The cost depends on the days, amount of GB contracted and the values are from US$ 8.00 to 30.00

The three main mobile operators in the country, which have wide coverage and are well known, are:

Telstra: Telstra is Australia’s largest telecommunications operator and has the widest mobile network coverage in the country.

Optus: Optus is another major operator in Australia, offering a wide range of mobile, internet and television services.

Vodafone: Vodafone is a global telecommunications operator that also operates in Australia.

Safety in australia

Crime:

In general, Australia has experienced a downward trend in crime rates in recent years. Violent crimes, such as murder and serious assault, tend to be less frequent compared to other countries.

Transport:

Public transport in Australia is known to be generally efficient, safe, and well organised, offering a variety of options to meet the needs of citizens and visitors alike.

In larger cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, you’ll even find subways and tram systems.

risk of scams

Even though Australia is not known for scams, in tourist destinations you should always be cautious when receiving change, negotiating rides, or any type of service, and also never pay anything upfront.

I have not had any incidents with the transport used.

The index ranks countries from 0 to 100, with 0 to 33 being the most dangerous, 33 to 66 being somewhat safe/dangerous, and 66 to 100 being the safest.

See more details here.

Documents and Vaccine

Visa:

Brazilians need to obtain an Australian visa before traveling to Australia.
There are several types of visa available, depending on the purpose of the trip, such as tourism, study, and work, among others.
It is important to apply for the correct visa and follow the instructions in the application process.
See information at the Australian Embassy in Brazil.

The “eTourist” program allows Brazilians to complete the entire visa application process via the Internet. The visa lasts for 1 year, but the maximum length of stay in the country for this visa is up to 3 months.

Valid passport:

Brazilians wishing to travel to Australia must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from the date of entry into the country.

Vaccines:

To enter Australia, all travelers must be vaccinated against yellow fever at least ten days prior to travel. The international vaccination card must remain with the passport upon arrival in the country.

The yellow fever vaccine certificate can be obtained online.

Planing your Travel? Tips and Tricks

Here are tips and tools to make the journey more enjoyable.

If you still have doubt.

Check the blog area with the materials that will help you on your trip as:

31 stunning and cheap countries to visit.

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11 tips for choosing your unforgettable hostel.

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Book your flight.

Finding cheap air tickets can be difficult and stressful, but with my blog’s tips and using Skyscanner or Momondo the task can be even fun. Today are the most complete tools on the market . In my experience I have seen that even using others these two end up having the best prices.

Book your accommodation.

If you prefer Hostel a great tool is Hostelwold, If you want besides hostels, other options use the Booking.com. I have used both very often and always find the best prices.

Travel insurance.

Insurance is what we never want to use, but it is traumatic if we need and not have it.
It will cover the costs of any eventuality of illness, injury, theft and / or ticket cancellations, etc. It is extremely important to have as you never know what can happen.
I have used the WorldNomads, which always have the insurance coverage that travelers need, in addition to having coverage worldwide.