Australia

Yes, almost all travelers need a visa. Most tourists apply for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or an eVisitor visa, depending on nationality.

Yes, Australia is generally very safe. However, watch out for strong ocean currents (rip tides), extreme heat, and wildlife (snakes, spiders, jellyfish). In cities, standard safety precautions apply.

Depends on where you’re going:

• Southern Australia (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth) – Best in spring (Sept-Nov) or autumn (Mar-May) for mild weather.
•  Northern Australia (Cairns, Darwin, Great Barrier Reef) – Best in winter (May-Oct) to avoid the humid rainy season.
• Outback (Uluru, Alice Springs) – Best in autumn and winter (Apr-Sept) to avoid extreme summer heat.

Definitely more expensive compared to most countries.

• Budget: $116 USD per day
• Mid-range: $368 USD per day
• Luxury: $500+ USD per day

The prices are for two people, allowing some costs to be shared per person.

Currency: Australian Dollar (AUD)

Cards are widely accepted, but some places in rural areas prefer cash.

Yes, tap water is safe everywhere unless stated otherwise (like some remote areas).

Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated.

• Restaurants: 5-10% for good service.
• Cafés & bars: Rounding up the bill is common.
• Taxis: Optional, but rounding up is polite.

In general it can be said that attacks are extremely rare, if you follow safety rules.

• Sharks & jellyfish - Swim in designated areas with nets.
• Snakes & spiders - Bites are rare, and antivenom is widely available.
• Crocodiles - Avoid swimming in northern rivers/lakes.

Australia uses Type I plugs (same as New Zealand, China).

In Australia, everything is down under (below the equator). So are the seasons compared to the USA or Europe, it’s the other way around so to speak. Perhaps the following overview will help you make a comparison:

• September – November: Spring
• December – February: Summer
• March – May: Fall
• June – August: Winter

Yes, definitely! Healtcare is expensive for visitors. Good travel insurance is generally important to get home safely and at a reasonable price in an emergency.

• Depends on the state/city – Some places allow it, others fine you.
• Australia has strict drink-driving laws (0.05% BAC limit).