Thursday, September 26, 2024

5 Mistakes First Time Visitors to Australia Make When They Visit

According to an article on Microsoft, written by an Australian citizen who worked in travel and tourism for many years named Ash Jurberg, he states five mistakes he's witnessed first timers to Australia making

1. Underestimating how large Australia is

-This is the sixth biggest country in the world. It's the only country to be its own continent it's so large. Travelers try to cover it all on a single vacation. The best thing to do prior to going is to laser focus on what you would like to see. Make a checklist or some sort of list of what you would like to see and do

2. Focusing on Sydney and ignoring other parts of Australia

-Yes, Sydney is the larger of the cities in Australia, but there are so many other things worth seeing. Make a list of all the things you want to see prior to going. For example, if you love animals, head over to the Taronga Zoo in Queensland. Not only will you see animals, but you'll also get to see the statue of Steve Irwin, better known as the Crocodile Hunter. He recommends Melbourne because not only is it one of the most liveable cities, but it is rich in cultural events, a vibrant art scene and friendly people. Also, if you're into AFL (Australian Football League) or "footy" as it's referred to here, three of the biggest AFL teams are from here: the Richmond Tigers, the Melbourne Kangaroos and the Hawthorne Hawks.

-He also recommend a trip to the Outback. From horizon to horizon it's nothing but stars at night. The diverse wildlife is mind boggling. And a trip to Uluru, home to the famed Ayers Rock, is also a must

3. Thinking Australia is hot all the time

-They have weather just like we do. It's not hot all the time. It can get cold in Australia. The southern half does get chilly during the winter. And in the mountainous regions, it even snows. Many tourists come during the Australian winter, thinking and packing for hot weather. Not being prepared to face cool, fall-like weather in some spots. A lot of people don't realize that when it is summer in the northern hemisphere, it's reverse down under. It's winter in Australia during the summer in the north. But, should you choose to visit Australia during the summer months, the most important thing to bring is sunblock. The sun will be far stronger down under than anywhere else. It's easy to get sunburned

4. Not trying the local cuisine

Meat pie

-Australia has a unique variety of local foods and tourists are denying themselves a new experience by not trying them. For a truly "down under" experience, try a "parma" (chicken parmesan) at a pub, a meat pie at a sporting event or Vegemite on toast

5. Paranoia about deadly animals

-Most are convinced that Australia is where all the animals that can kill you live. While it is true that Australia does have some deadly animals, as long as you practice caution, you shouldn't have too many issues. Australia does have a plethora of highly venomous snakes, dangerous ants, highly venomous spiders and even dangerous sea life. But, practice caution and you should be okay. Most of these animals will give off warning signs to back away. But, insects like the Red Back Spider or Funnel Web Spider don't give off warning signs. They are aggressive. Practice extreme caution

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