10 Cultural Taboos to Avoid When Visiting Australia

Known as "Down Under" by a lot of people, Australia is one of the more popular places for people to travel. But, unfortunately, there are good, respectful tourists and then there are bad, disrespectful tourists. You can usually tell which group tourists fall into depending on what they say or do. According to MSN.com page Crazy Nomad, here are 10 cultural taboos to avoid when visiting Australia

Also, when in doubt, ask the locals. They are a treasure trove of useful information. By asking them what to do and what not to do, while explaining to them that you want to ensure you do things accurately and respectfully, you're showing respect for the cultural customs of that country and you're being a responsible, respectable tourist

This is on my travel bucket list. There are so many things I want to do and see if I get the chance to go to Australia

1. NEVER mock / make jokes about Aboriginal culture

-It's important to remember this: Remember whose country you're in. Making fun of / mocking the local Aboriginal culture is not just wrong, it's plain offensive. Aboriginal culture is a massive part of Australian culture and history, and as such, it would be bad to mock this. They have endured social injustices over the years, including "The stolen generations." This refers to Aboriginal children who were taken from their families. These children were put into households with non-indigenous people and denied access to their culture, language and more. When visiting Australia, ask questions about the culture, show a genuine interest in the history. For example, when visiting Ayers Rock, also known as Uluru, don't touch the rock or climb on it. When you take time to ask curious questions, this shows you are taking an interest in the culture and showing an appreciation for the locals

2. Don't assume that everyone drinks alcohol or likes to casually party

-Australia does have a vibrant party scene, depending on where you're at. It's not safe to assume that everyone will be drinking at all hours of the day or partying. This can create stereotypes and make for some awkward situations. Many people in Australia refrain from drinking due to religious, cultural and personal reasons. Simply respect these choices that those individuals. Just because you're on vacation and want to drink does not mean you need to pressure someone into drinking. If you're unsure, ask that person. When you show that you are sensitive and understanding of various lifestyles, this will work out to your favor. It will put you in a good light with the locals and ensure that all interactions are open, inclusive and respectful

3. Don't mock / criticize Australia's love of sports

-In Australia, there are various sports that are widely loved by the population. Aussie Rules Football, known as AFL (Australian Football League) is one of the most popular sports. In addition to Aussie Rules Football, there's also cricket and rugby. Together, these sports hold a special importance to most Australians. Mocking them and/or criticizing them is wrong. Instead, engage in a conversation about said sports, ask questions. This shows that you are genuinely curious about the inner workings of that sport and shows respect for that sport. Even if sports are not your thing, asking curious questions to learn more about that sport shows you are respecting something that someone is passionate about. It helps you connect better with the locals and understand their traditions better

4. Avoid tipping excessively - it's not usual

-Australia is one country where tipping is optional. Workers earn good wages, so gratuities are not usually expected, like they are in the US. You can leave a small tip, which is appreciated. If you tip excessively, this will show that you are unfamiliar with local customs. Make sure to understand these local customs and respect these practices. By respecting these unique practices, your dining experience will become better. And, if in doubt, ask a local. The local residents provide a wealth of useful information that will result in success!!

5. NEVER confuse Australian and British cultures

-Their accents may sound similar, but they are not the same. Never, for one second, assume that Australian culture and British culture are the same. Yes, they do share historical ties, but that's where the similarity ends. Australia has a wonderfully unique cultural identity that the residents take high pride in. Simply assuming that the cultures of both Britain and Australia are the same shows you are dismissive and unaware. Australia has its own slang, traditions and a unique laid back way of life. Knowing the difference between British culture and Australian culture will help you build a rapport with the locals and, thus, earn their respect while also avoiding insulting their national pride

6. NEVER makes jokes about deadly wildlife - it's a hot button issue

-People do make frequent jokes about the deadly wildlife that exists in Australia. "Everything that can kill you lives in Australia." Australia does have wonderfully diverse and, yes, deadly wildlife that is native to this large country. But, deadly wildlife can live anywhere, not just Australia. Making jokes about it will come off as insensitive, offensive and just plain wrong. Those who live in areas where these deadly creatures live might be offended by the jokes; they have to contend with these creatures on a daily basis and know what risks they pose. Instead, ask curious and respectful questions about these forms of dangerous wildlife. Adopting this mindset will not only keep you from making a major cultural faux pas, it will also help give you an education into the unique biodiversity of the land known as "Down Under." And if you're still curious about the unique wildlife, visit any one of the fantastic zoos in Australia. The staff will provide a wealth of information about the interesting insects and animals that call Australia home

7. Do not discuss hot button issues like immigration or politics

-Politics, religion and immigration are hot button issues to avoid at all costs, no matter where you go. It's especially wise to avoid discussing these issues in Australia. If these topics do arise in conversation, keep an open mind. Be open to different points of view. Don't make assumptions or pass judgement. By keeping an open mind, you are showing respect to that other person and making them feel their opinion is also valued. It also helps show that other person that you understand the diverse social and political landscape of Australia

8. NEVER litter / disrespect the environment

-Australia is known for its rugged landscape and beautiful environments, which provide homes, food and more to the wonderfully diverse animal and insect life. Those in Australia take deep pride in their gorgeous landscape. By littering, you are disrespecting the environment. It's not only frowned upon to litter, but illegal. Dispose of your litter in proper ways, such as waste baskets or bins. Take part in eco-friendly ways of disposing of litter, such as recycling and avoiding single-use plastics. This shows you are being a responsible tourist, helping to keep the environment clean and also helps you show respect for the local values. Not only that, you will make a positive impact

9. Avoid being overly informal in professional settings

-While it's known that a laid-back lifestyle is common in Australia, there's a time and place to be laid-back and there's a time and place to not to be laid-back. It can come off as disrespectful if you're being overly casual in what seems like a professional setting. Until you are told / invited to use first names, it's better to address someone by their title or surname. Ensure you dress appropriately and maintain a polite, professional form of communication in the workplace. This will show that you respect / understand their professional requirements. This will help you build relationships and show awareness of the unique culture of Australia, especially in formal settings. And, if you're unsure, ask. Ask how someone would like to be addressed. Let them know that the reason you ask is to ensure you do things the right way. Asking always works and shows you want to ensure you do things respectfully

10. Avoid mocking / overusing Australian slang

-Australia is known for its unique slang. Mocking it or overusing it can be seen as disrespectful. Listen to how the locals speak and adopt the slang occasionally. This gentle hand approach shows you respect the locals culture without looking as though you're trying to fit in too hard

11 Phrases / Terms to Avoid Using in England

It's an obviously known fact that there are two types of English: British English and American English. There are similar words and phrases, but with different meanings in both countries. According to MSN.com page Insider Lifestyle, by someone named Kerwin, here are 11 phrases / terms to avoid using in England, especially if you don't want a look of confusion or a funny look

-For some reason, MSN.com always has articles that catch my eye or interest

-My question is this: first and foremost, who is asking these questions or assuming these things?!?!?!?!?!? I would NEVER ask or use any of these terms or phrases with someone from England. I would try and be as respectful as possible when conversing with them. Because, if anything, I would find it endlessly fascinating to converse with someone from another country. To learn what makes them unique. Learn their likes and dislikes.

-A great example. While on vacation (holiday) in the Dominican Republic one year with my family, we started talking with these three ladies from England. They were super sweet and somehow we got onto the topic of Top Gear UK. These ladies were surprised to hear that we, being from the US, actually preferred the British Top Gear over the US one. They all told us that they were actually from right around the same regions as the guys on that show. One woman was from a village two miles down the road from where Jeremy Clarkson lives. Another said she was from Bristol, where James May is from and the other said she was from Birmingham, where Richard Hammond is from. We all went from one topic to another and it was so fascinating to learn about these ladies and their unique lives and learn what makes them unique

-On the one about the feeling right at home in England from having ancestors from there, I would, first and foremost, never be of that mindset. It's probably a very common thing that a lot of people have ancestors from England. I do. I found that out when I did the DNA test Ancestry.com is always advertising. As a result, I found out I have British in my heritage. Pretty cool. I got a tattoo to commemorate that. It's a skin rip tattoo showing the English Flag (Union Jack) underneath. I thought it was really cool to find out I have that in my heritage

1. Soccer

-For the love of all that is absolutely holy, when in England, refer to the sport that people from the US call soccer football. In England and other parts of Europe, it's football. The people who play it are "footballers". If you want to make connections, brush up on the local teams, go to a pub and watch a football on the televisions that are bound to be there. Showing that you know at least a little something about the local teams will open a world of possibilities, including making new friends and learning about a new culture. It also shows you respect the local culture, putting you in the good graces of the locals. Calling football "soccer" will earn you some funny looks and have the locals immediately asking if you're from the US and earn you some kind corrections

2. "What's with the weather?"

-It might seem like a stereotype, but the British weather forecast seems to be a popular area of discussion. Complaining about the weather like an outsider would is compared to criticizing a member of someone's family-only they can do that. If you want to talk weather with a local, do it with a nod and smile and you'll fit right in. Or speak of it in a friendly, complimentary, kind way. See if talking about it kindly works as well

3. "Fanny pack"

-In the US, "fanny pack" is a bag worn around the waist to keep items in. It's a stereotypical item used by tourists on vacation. In the UK, however, this term has a completely different meaning. In fact, it's quite embarrassing, as it refers to a certain part of the anatomy. If you want to describe this particular accessory in the UK, the proper phrase is "bum bag". It might sound strange, but if you use it, you won't get any funny looks. The key is to talk like the locals

4. "I love your accent"

-It's not surprising that a lot of people find British accents to be attractive or interesting. But it can come off as patronizing or even annoying. It's like complimenting someone on their handwriting - nice, but not something they can control. Instead, just focus on getting to know that person or talking to them. Don't focus on their accent

5. "Are you an Aussie?"

-First things first, NEVER do this. Mixing up the English, Australian and New Zealand accents are a big DO NOT DO EVER!! Despite the fact that these countries do speak English, there are subtle ways of telling whether someone is from England, Australia or New Zealand. Their accents are unique, some might be broader on vowels than others, some use specific terms and there's a sense of national pride attached. To keep it positive, let the person tell you what country they call home if it comes up in conversation

6. "Do you know the Queen?"

-This is a forehead slap moment. Never ask someone from England if they know the Queen. Assuming someone from England knows the Queen or current monarch is like asking someone from the US if they know the President personally. While the Royal Family is an interesting topic for discussion, avoid asking this to avoid sounding like a tourist

She was such a good person. Did a lot of good for others. So inspiring

7. "My ancestors were British, so I feel right at home."

-Many people have British ancestry, but this statement might come off differently than what you intended or thought. It might come off as trying to hard to fit in. It's like claiming you're a native local after a short time in Paris because you had a relative who was French. Let the connections come in their own time over conversations. Those kinds of free-flowing, natural conversations make for stronger connections

8. "Why do you drive on the wrong side of the road?"

-To many people from Britain, they drive on the correct side, and it's everyone else who is driving on the wrong side of the road. Questioning this tradition is incredibly disrespectful. It's like asking people why they celebrate certain holidays. Just don't ask it. Accept it as a unique part of the culture, adapt to it and even enjoy the uniqueness of it

9. "You must love tea"

-While tea is a popular drink in England, not everyone is a fan of it. Making assumptions to someone based on their preferences for a drink can be considered highly irritating. It can also be considered offensive or stereotypical, assuming that someone from England will automatically like tea. It's like assuming that all people from the US like coffee and drink it from the time they get up in the morning until they go to bed at night. Simply appreciate the culture for all the uniqueness it offers

10. "Do you celebrate the Fourth of July?"

-First and foremost, who is asking these questions?!?!?!?

-If you are looking to bond with someone from the UK over holidays, the Fourth of July question is the LAST question you want to ask. If you paid attention in history class in school, you'll do good to remember the Fourth of July marks the day that the people of the US separated from British rule-not the thing you want to bring up with someone from England. Instead, ask them about unique holidays they celebrate, like Guy Fawkes Day or Boxing Day or any of the unique holidays they celebrate. Ask about the significance of them and this will show that you are taking a genuine interest. Tell them you're curious and it will come off as respectful and friendly

11. "Cheerio, mate"

-This is a stereotypical phrase and hardly used in modern day conversation. It can come off as offensive or seem like you are mocking someone from England. It would be the equivalent of someone saying "Howdy, partner!" to you if you're from New York. Learn how the locals greet each other before greeting someone with this outdated phrase

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

Lonely in Longreach by Eva Scott

This book is like Sleepless in Seattle, but given an Australian makeover

Summary

Sam Costello is a widower working his farm in the rural Outback of Australia. He's grieving the loss of his wife Michelle and trying to understand his teen son Levi. But Levi has other plans. Plans that involve attending university in Sydney with his friend Maddie. And even Maddie has her own reasons for going to Sydney, but they don't involve university. And, because of her matchmaking skills, she sets up an online dating profile for Levi's dad, hoping he'll be head over heels in love before he realizes what has happened

Sarah Lewis is a journalist with a great job and great boyfriend. But, she feels as though there is more to life than safe and perfect and great. She decides to do an article about finding love in the Outback, a place usually described as "harsh", "rugged", "hard". When she sets up a dating profile online, she encounters a user whose name is Lonely in Longreach, she wonders if this is truly the one for her

Happy Steve Irwin Day!

This date has officially been designated Steve Irwin Day. It's dedicated to the life and hard work of Australian-born wildlife expert Steve Irwin. He was popularly known as "The Crocodile Hunter". This special designation is all about things that were of the highest importance to Irwin: family, wildlife, conservation and fun

Born on 2/22/1962, in Essendon, one of the many suburbs of Melbourne, Australia, he grew up surrounded by Australian wildlife. His mother Lyn cared for injured animals, such as snakes, kangaroos, lizards and birds. his family moved to Beerwah, Queensland in 1970. Both of his parents opened a reptil park, which is now the Australia Zoo. He became known as "The Crocodile Hunter" and had a program of the same name on the Animal Planet channel. This program taught everyone, from little kids to older adults, all about the wildlife that inhabits this planet of our. Sadly on 9/4/2006, while on a diving excursion off the coast of Port Douglas in Queensland, he was filming a new program when he didn't know that he had startled a sting ray. The sting ray shot its barbed, venomous tail into Irwin's chest, piercing his heart. He died from cardiac arrest

Private Down Under by James Patterson

This is just one of many books in the Private series by James Patterson. This series in particular involves a fictitious investigation firm with branches all over the world. This particular story involves the branch for the new Sydney office.

Jack Morgan is the head of Private International and he's chosen Craig Gisto, who's originally from London, to run the office down under. The only problem is that on the Sydney Police Department is his cousin, Mark Talbot, who he has to work close to sometimes. The unveiling party is going fine until an unknown man crashes the party. His head is covered with a bag and when removed, it's discovered his eyes are missing. While this investigation is going on, another case comes up at the same time. Legendary Australian rocker Mickey Spencer comes into Private Sydney because he's convinced his manager is trying to kill him because he's 26 and he fears the stigma attached to rockstars who are 26, because of the whole "Forever 27 Club." Meanwhile, another case comes up. Women are being brutally beaten to death and having photocopied banknotes shoved into intimate parts of their bodies. This investigation ends with a woman who was unable to get pregnant killing women with families because she was jealous. The rockstar case ends with Mickey's Russian-born girlfriend Katia being the one targeting him because he got her sister pregnant and had a botched abortion. The mystery man case ends with his father and brother being targets of the Chinese Triads because of the father being a former Hong Kong cop

To be honest, if you read this book, it's good. And the rock star, I don't know why, the first person I think of is Glenn Hughes. The way he is described physically, Glenn Hughes pops into mind because of physical resemblance

Chris Hemworth

What a hunk! No wonder he's hot! He's from Australia and has a hot Aussie accent!

DOB: 8/11/1983
Where: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Height: 6'2''

Trademark
-Deep voice
-Light blue eyes
-His height
-His muscular build

Trivia
-For his role as the title character in Thor, he had to gain 20 pounds of muscle
-Won People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive in 2014
-Has English, German, Scottish and Irish in his heritage

Filmography
Star Trek
-George Kirk
Thor
-Thor
The Avengers
-Thor
Star Trek Into Darkness
-George Kirk
Rush
-James Hunt
Thor: The Dark World
-Thor

Grease

Grease

Summary
-Greaser Danny Zuko and Australian exchange student Sandy Olsen fall in love over the summer. It's the 1950s and in California! What they don't know until it's too late is that they'll both be attending Rydell High School. Danny's the leader of The T-Birds, a group of black leather jacket greasers and Sandy hangs with the Pink Ladies, led by Rizzo. They eventually fall back in love towards the end when Sandy becomes a greaser girl

Cast
-John Travolta: Danny Zuko
-Olivia Newton-John: Sandy Olsen
-Stockard Channing: Betty Rizzo
-Jeff Conaway: Kenickie
-Barry Pearl: Doody
-Michael Tucci: Sonny
-Kelly Ward: Putzie
-Didi Conn: Frenchy
-Jamie Connelly: Jan
-Dinah Manoff: Marty Maraschino
-Eve Arden: Principal McGee
-Sid Caesar: Coach Calhoun
-Susan Buckner: Patty Simcox
-Eddie Deezen: Eugene Felnick
-Annette Charles: Cha Cha DiGregorio

Did You Know?
-Olivia Newton-John had to be sewn into the spandex pants she wore at the carnival scene due to a zipper breaking

-Set in high school, most of the cast were well past their high school years. John Travolta was 23, Olivia Newton-John was 28, Stockard Channing was 33, Jeff Conaway was 26, Barry Pearl was 27, Michael Tucci was 31, Kelly Ward was 20, Didi Conn was 25, Jamie Donnelly was 30, Annette Charles was 29. Only Eddie Deezen, Dinah Manoff and Lorenzo Lamas were still teens, all 19
-Rydell High is a reference to Bobby Rydell, who had a major song, "Swingin' School" in 1960
-Harry Reems, who was known for porn movies such as Deep Throat, had cold feet about hiring him. They instead hired Sid Caesar to play Coach Calhoun
-Randall Kleiser, director of the film, hated the title song. Because the movie was set in the 1950s, he felt that the title song, with it's heavy disco beat and cynical lyrics was inappropriate
-The scene in Frenchy's bedroom where Rizzo is singing the line about Elvis, was filmed the day he died

Phil Rudd

Phil Rudd

Birth name: Phillip Hugh Norman
DOB: 5/19/1954
Where: Melbourne, Australia
Height: 5'6''

Trivia
-Fired from AC/DC in 1983 due to excessive pot smoking, irresponsible behavior with women and fighting. Was rehired in 1995
-Drummer for AC/DC
-During his 12 year absence from AC/DC, became a helicopter pilot
-Since the departure of Mark Evans, he is the only member of AC/DC to have been born in Australia

May Birthdays

Since it's May, I want to give a big, huge Happy Birthday wish to the following people

Tim McGraw
-DOB: 5/1/1967
-Where: Delhi, Louisiana
-Going to be: 47
-Son of late baseball player Tug McGraw

Man, he's gorgeous!

Bianca Jagger
-DOB: 5/2/1945
-Where: Managua, Nicaragua
-Going to be: 68
-Was formerly married to Rolling Stones front man Mick Jagger

Randy Travis
-DOB: 5/4/1959
-Where: Marshville, North Carolina
-Going to be: 54
-Is the second of six children

George Clooney
-DOB: 5/6/1961
-Where: Lexington, Kentucky
-Going to be: 52
-Made his acting debut playing a doctor on ER

Enrique Iglesias
-DOB: 5/8/1975
-Where: Madrid, Spain
-Going to be: 38
-Known as the King of Latin Pop

Bono
-DOB: 5/10/1960
-Where: Dublin, Ireland
-Going to be: 53
-Most of U2's music has Catholic imagery in it

Natasha Richardson
-DOB: 5/11/1963
-Where: London, England
-DOD: 3/18/2009
-Where: New York City, New York
-Going to be: 49
-Member of the Redgrave family

Tony Hawk
-DOB: 5/12/1968
-Where: Carlsbad, California
-Going to be: 45
-Known as The Birdman

Cate Blanchett
-DOB: 5/14/1969
-Where: Melbourne, Australia
-Going to be: 44
-Came to attention in her role as Elizabeth I of England

Chow Yun-fat
-DOB: 5/18/1955
-Where: Hong Kong, China
-Going to be: 58
-Best known for his "gun-fu" movies and work with action director John Woo

Cher
-DOB: 5/20/1946
-Where: El Centro, California
-Going to be: 67
-Known as the Goddess of Pop

Mike Myers
-DOB: 5/25/1963
-Where: Scarborough, Ontario, Canada
-Going to be: 50
-Best known for his role of British super spy Austin Powers, Shrek and Wayne's World

Sir Ian McKellen
-DOB: 5/25/1939
-Where: Lancashire, England
-Going to be: 74
-His most noted role: Gandalf in the LOTR series

Lenny Kravitz
-DOB: 5/26/1964
-Where: New York City, New York
-Going to be: 49
-Uses psychedelic rock in his music

Eric Singer
-DOB: 5/12/1958
-Where: Euclid, Ohio
-Going to be: 55
-The new drummer for rock band Kiss

Today in Rock Music History

Rock music

2012
-Greg Ham of Men at Work died in Melbourne

2003
-Conrad Leonard, the hardest, oldest working musician in Britain, dies at age 104

2002
-Layne Staley, of Alice in Chains, is found dead in his north Seattle apartment

1995
-The Stone Roses play their first gig in five years at the Rockerfella Club in Oslo, Norway

1988
-Sonny Bono, of Sonny and Cher, was inaugurated as Mayor of Palm Springs

1980
-Brian Johnson replaces Bon Scott in AC/DC

1965
-The T.A.M.I Show features the Rolling Stones