FAQs
How big is Australia?
Australia is the sixth largest country in the world covering 7,682,000 square kilometers. It's about the same size as the 48 mainland states of the USA and 50% larger than Europe. The Australian environment is unique. From unspoiled beaches, tropical rainforest, rugged mountain ranges and vast tracts of desert, Australia is a country of contrast. Home to an amazing 14 World Heritage listed wilderness areas, Australia's diversity is yours to enjoy.
What is the population of Australia?
Australia’s population is (apprx) 21 million with an (apprx) annual growth of 1.44%. This gives Australia the lowest population density in the world - only two people per square kilometer.
Is Australia safe for tourists?
ABSOLULTEY MATE! Tourism has thrived since the late 1980’s and Australian’s are proud of their country and love to show it off. After an increase in government spending on tourism, and in conjunction with the popularity of Paul Hogan’s Crocodile Dundee Movies we have become one of America’s most desired getaways. Sure, when in populated areas like Sydney/Melbourne use due diligence and common sense because crime does occur. And when in secluded area’s listen to your Aussie tour guide and pay attention to warning signs and you’ll be alright. If the sign says “Don’t Swim – Crocodiles Live Here”, it’s probably NOT a good idea to swim! Here are a few things worthy of emphasis:
a) Swim between the flags on beaches: Lifeguards primarily patrol the area of surf in between the Yellow and Red flags. Australia can have huge surf and fierce rip currents and unknowing tourists have gotten themselves in trouble by underestimating the conditions.
b) Crossing the Road: It is imperative that you remember that cars are traveling on the opposite side of the road. American tourists have been hit by stepping out into busy city streets forgetting that vehicles approach from the opposite direction to what they are used to.
c) Wear sunscreen and a hat: A sad but true statistic is that the Australian population per capita leads the world in skin cancers. The sun can be harsh and you can burn very quickly, especially between 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. Tourists have actually been admitted to hospital for excessive sun burn.
d) Listen to your Aussie tour guide and pay attention to signs and you’ll make it home to tell all your mates about your Aussie adventure. There are signs warning of crocodiles, rip currents, stingers and other hazardous things. In Sydney they even have painted arrows on the sidewalk reminding you which way that oncoming traffic is approaching from!
e) And finally, in the event of an Emergency dial 000 or if it is not urgent you can dial 13 1444 for Police Assistance. There have been American’s who have gotten in trouble and very frustrated that dialing 911 gets nothing except a “this number is not connected” message.
How long does it take to fly to Australia?
It takes quite a long time, but if you ask anyone who has done it before we’ll bet they all say that it was well worth it and an experience of a lifetime! It takes between 13.5 to 14 hours to fly from Los Angeles to Sydney. The time variance is based on flight path and wind speeds/direction. If you are coming from the East Coast area it takes an additional (apprx) 4-5 hours to get to Los Angeles. With this in mind as well as calculating your 2-3 hour layover in Los Angeles and airport travel time, you could say that it takes about 24 hours in total. Some folks decide to stay a day or two in Los Angeles on route to break up the trip.
What is the time difference between the USA and Australia?
During Daylight Savings Australia is ahead of the USA as follows:
a) East Coast: 14 hours
b) Central: 13 hours
c) West Coast: 11 hours
Do I need a visa?
Citizens of the USA will need a valid passport and an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia BUT we organize this for all students and this is why we ask for a copy of your passport with final payment. For information on tourists’ visas visit www.eta.immi.gov.au
Are there any required/recommended immunizations?
No shots are recommended by the World Health Organization
Do students need Medical insurance?
It is a necessity for students to be covered for medical issues. This insurance must be presented four weeks prior to departure. Many regular policies will cover you overseas, check with your provider and if you are not covered overseas you will need to purchase additional medical insurance for the trip. (cost: apprx $200)
Where can I get local currency?
You won’t have any problem getting cash with debit cards being your best option. Credit cards generally have the best rate of exchange (for purchases) but definitely debit cards are best for cash.
Should I inform my bank/credit card agencies of my intended overseas travel?
YES! If you are planning to use your ATM/credit cards overseas it is wise to inform the appropriate companies prior to departure in order to avoid having a hold placed on your card when international charges appear on your account. It is also beneficial to know if there are any fees associated with ATM use or cash advances so that you can best plan your finances.
Is tipping expected in Australia?
Tipping is neither required nor routinely expected, but a small tip can be appropriate for very good service in restaurants.
What is the Currency Exchange Rate for USD to Aussie Dollars?
The exchange rate fluctuates with both the US and Australian economies. As an American traveling to Australia you usually come out ahead. You can check the current exchange rates at: www.iccfx.com
Can I get regular internet access in Australia?
DEFINITELY. Some of the hotels we stay in will have internet access and there are internet cafes everywhere. You will have “no worries” about getting online virtually every day.
Will I be able to phone home?
EASILY! Phone cards are readily available and very inexpensive. You can utilize these phone cards on pay phones or on your hotel room phone OR pick one up prior to leaving the States. www.pingo.com have great rates.
Can I use my American electrical appliances in Australia?
NO. Australia operates on 220-240 volts. However you can purchase adaptors fairly cheaply from electrical stores such as Radio Shack or Best Buy prior to departure.
What is the temperature like in Australia?
Spending Christmas at the beach or skiing in August may seem strange, but Australia's seasons are the opposite of the northern hemisphere - summer officially starts in December and winter in June. Even in the winter, however, you'll enjoy blue skies and warm, bright days. Most of Australia receives more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, or an amazing 70 % of the total possible hours. Grab a hat and sunscreen and enjoy our delightful climate. Specifically during your trip: Sydney & Melbourne in July will be a little chilly, jeans and a light sweater will be fine. It will be too cold to swim in the ocean in Sydney & Melbourne (although some students will!). When we fly north to Brisbane/Surfers Paradise you will be fine in shorts and a t-shirt and the water temperature is good for swimming (yes, even in winter!!). Then when you fly up to Cairns the weather will be great!!
Is the Great Barrier Reef Australia’s best attraction?
There is so much to see and do in Australia, but your trip just will not be complete without experiencing Australia's most famous natural wonder and the world’s largest living organism – the Great Barrier Reef. The Great Barrier Reef will stun you with its shear magnificence. It is 19,200 km long (1200 miles) and contains more than 1,000 islands from sandy cays to rainforest isles. The beauty of the waters and the prolific life it supports enraptures visitors. You can reach coral sites by air, boat or even water taxi, and you scuba dive or snorkel for intimate reef views.
Are the Australian aborigines the world’s oldest civilization?
Today it is believed that the Aborigines are the world's oldest civilization. For more than 50,000 years, Australia's Aboriginal people have lived and thrived in Australia's unique and challenging natural environment. Australia's rich vegetation and native wildlife helped them establish their presence on the land. Sadly, through atrocities committed during the early years of colonization, and through disease brought to the continent by European settlement there are far fewer Aborigines today than prior to European settlement. Currently the Aborigines number (apprx) 1.5% of the Australian population.
Will I see a kangaroo up close and personal in Australia?
While you will not see one hopping down the main street of Sydney, we do guarantee that you will see a kangaroo. The kangaroo is unique to Australia and one of our most easily recognized mammals. There are more kangaroos in Australia now than when Australia was first settled. Estimates suggest around 40 million – that’s 2 kangaroos for every 1 Aussie. You can even come home with a photo of yourself petting a kangaroo at Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo. The kangaroos that you see in the wild are not tame enough to pet, but the ones in captivity are as friendly as your family pet.
How close can I get to a koala?
Pretty close mate! You can hold one. On our tours everyone has the opportunity to be photographed actually cuddling and petting a koala at Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo!!
Will I get to learn to surf?
You bet! Part of the package includes surfboard riding lessons with an accredited and professional surf coach. It is a lot of fun and very safe!
