Here you will find practical information in connection with trips to Australia. Read i.a. about currency, time difference and tips.
- Language: English
- Capital: Canberra
- Population: 22, 8 million.
- Religion: Protestants and Catholics
- Currency: Australian dollar
- Surface: 7,686,848 km2
Worth knowing
Importation of food to Australia
Certain foods must not be imported into Australia. This also applies to food from the flight or departure airport. During the flight, forms are handed out that everyone who travels to Australia must fill in. There you must indicate if you have any food with you and the authorities then decide whether the goods may be brought into the country. Upon arrival in Australia, all luggage is checked to verify that the information is correct, and undeclared food is subject to a fine of 500 Australian dollars in cash upon entry.
It may also be wise to wash off any soil from shoes before departure, as the Australian authorities are very aware of bacteria and viruses that may be hiding there.
Time difference
The time difference between Sweden and Australia varies depending on whether Sweden has summer or winter time and where in Australia you are:
Northeast / southeast which includes the states Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria
Summer time (October – March): + 10 hours
Winter time (October – March): + 8 hours
Queensland
Queensland does not have summer time, ie. the time difference is +9 hours during October – March and +8 hours April – September.
Central, which includes the states of Northern Territory and South Australia
Summer time (October – March): + 9.5 hours
Winter time (October – March): + 7.5 hours
Northern Territory
Northern Territory does not have summer time, ie. the time difference is +7.5 hours during October – March and +6.5 hours of April – September.
West, which includes the state of Western Australia
Summer time (October – March): +8 hours
Winter time (April – September): +6 hours
Transport
Buses
Buses in Australia are of a good standard and have air conditioning – keep in mind that it can be good to bring a light sweater as the much-needed cool air can sometimes feel a little chilly.
Flight
On our round trips in Australia, we sometimes fly the longer distances with domestic flights. At check-in at the airport, the tour guide will in that case inform the passengers about all practicalities and flight times for the route in question.
Price level
The price level in Australia is basically the same as in Sweden. Normally it is a bit cheaper to eat out, but as in Sweden there are restaurants in all price categories. How much pocket money you as a traveler need can of course vary, but count on extra expenses for drinks, any entrances to museums, attractions and transport on the days when there is no booked program.
Tip
In Australia, tips are given according to roughly the same principles as in Sweden: the recipient is happy to receive tips, but does not expect it. For cruises, other rules apply, see the special program for your trip.
Currency and credit cards
The local currency is the Australian dollar and is usually denominated in A $ or AUD. You can exchange money at home or withdraw at ATMs (which in Australia is called ATM) – which is about as common as in the Swedish cities. It can always be wise to bring a small amount of cash from home, so that you have the most necessary things. International credit cards can be used in major stores and restaurants throughout Australia. Visit thedressexplorer for How to Convert Euros to Australian Dollars.
Electricity
Australia has 220/240 volts and the contacts have either three or two “spikes”. Most hotels have a limited number of adapters to lend, but if you have a great need for electricity (for example, camera charging, hair dryer or shaver), it may be wise to bring an adapter from home.
Telephone and internet
Australia’s international country code is +61. The cities have good mobile coverage, but our travels also often go through areas where it is not certain that there is any coverage. In Australia, dual-band is used, which means that Swedish mobile phones work here. Your mobile operator can inform you about the prices for incoming and outgoing calls as well as the mobile phone’s data traffic. Most hotels offer internet. In the cities there are also a large number of internet cafes which is often a cheaper alternative.
Drinking water and hygiene
Hygiene in Australia maintains the same standard as in Sweden and you do not need to take any special precautions. With a few exceptions, tap water is drinkable throughout Australia.
Customs and traditions
In general, Australians have a very relaxed attitude to life and their fellow human beings – so do not be surprised if you see people walking barefoot inside the grocery store. But of course the same rules of courtesy apply as in Sweden. Scandinavians are often amazed by the Australian greeting phrase “How are you? (“How are you?”) – but the Australian means nothing more than “hello” and does not expect any further response.
Smoking
During flight and bus transport, there is an absolute ban on smoking. Australia often has periods of drought and therefore smokers do not see ash on the ground. We recommend that you bring a small container to the ashes and then throw it in a safe place. In Australia, smoking indoors in restaurants and other public places is prohibited.
