A holiday in Australia is a great experience and there is an infinite number of ways you can spend your time. From beaches, wineries, cities, rain forests and tropical hide aways you are sure to find your perfect adventure. You probably have an idea of what you would like to see and do but often knowledge of the little things about a country can make the difference between a holiday that is enjoyable and one that is frustrating.
You will probably arrive in Australia via airplane and land in a capital city like Sydney or a regional town like Cairns. All airports have taxi stands and car hire booths. Most will have a shuttle bus to the city or your hotel. Public transport options at airports can vary. Sydney International Airport is excellent with regular trains to the city.
All cities have a range of accommodation to suit every budget. Capital cities and major towns in Australia were designed with a Central Business Center (CBD) in the heart of the city and residential suburbs in the surrounding areas. The majority of available accommodation will be in the CBD. You will also find shopping precincts, restaurants, cultural centers and nightlife close to the CBD.
The Australian dollar is the standard currency of Australia and it is rare for other currency to be accepted. Money can be exchanged at banks and money exchange centers. All purchases in Australia include a Goods and Services Tax(GST) and this is by law included in the advertised price. Tipping for service is not expected.
Most public transport will radiate from the city into the outer suburbs. If you are relying on public transport you should be based in the CBD or you may find yourself spending two hours on public transport to somewhere that is only 10 minutes from where you are staying. All capital cities are serviced by trains and buses with Melbourne also having trams. Sydney and Perth have limited ferry services. You need to be aware that on weekends and public holidays public transport runs less frequently than week days so you should keep this in mind when planning outings.
Australia is seen as a land of sunshine and beaches but the weather can vary depending on the season and location. Having lived in Australia all my life I would have to say the best time to holiday in Australia is April/May and September/October.
At these times of the year it is fairly mild throughout most of the country. Temperatures are still warm enough to swim and it is mostly sunny weather without the high temperatures of summer. In the north of the country the wet season is over and the humidity and heat are more manageable. The southern most states of Tasmania and Victoria may be a little cool but overall it is the best time to experience the widest range of activities.
