Flights – there are a variety of non-stop flights available from the US to Australia gateway cities, such as Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne. The shortest route available is from Los Angeles to Brisbane, which takes just under 14 hours. Local flights are required once in country to visit various locations. Our travel designers are experts on international and local flights and can arrange all the logistics.

It’s important to note that you’ll cross the International Dateline, so flights from the US to Australia arrive 2 calendar days later; but you make up that time on the return by departing Australia and arriving into the US all on the same calendar day.

Driving – driving is on the opposite site of the road in Australia. Several locations are great for self-driving, and we can help you determine if it will enhance your itinerary, but driving is not necessary to have an amazing experience in Australia.

Trains – Australia features some epic train journeys that not only are a great way to get from one place to another, but also provide a unique and classic Aussie experience. You’ll enjoy top notch services and amenities on board the trains, sweeping views through the carriage windows, and scheduled disembarkation stops for touring en route.

Australia’s seasons are the opposite of the Northern hemisphere – summer officially starts in December and winter begins in June. Additionally, climates around Australia vary, just as they do in the USA. Your Aussie Specialist will work with you to help you navigate the best locations to visit based on your preferred travel dates.

Most of our itineraries will have some combination of these activities available for you to experience, according to your interests: snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, biking, surfing, fishing, kayaking, golfing, National Parks, World Heritage sites, outback experience, native Australian wildlife encounters, aboriginal cultural tours, and gourmet food and wine experiences.

There are a variety of large hotels, lodges, resorts and homesteads in Australia. Our style of traveler generally prefers the lodges and unique local experiences, once outside of the iconic cities and in the more remote locales. We will talk with you about your priorities and amenities you wish to have available at your accommodation.

Passports & Visas (ETA) – We suggest your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your return date. US citizens are also required to have an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) for entry into Australia. The ETA provides authorization to travel to and enter Australia and is electronically linked to your passport. Please visit www.eta.immi.gov.au to apply online.

For more information on entry/exit requirements and the most current visa information, visit Tourism Australia.

Tipping – Tipping is not mandatory or expected in Australia, but it’s a nice gesture. Incomes are typically sufficient, and employees in tourism and service industries do not rely on tips, as in the US. Restaurants and cafes adhere to the original spirit of tipping as something you willingly give for a great standard of service. For example, 10% is a nice tip for great service.

Power Adapter – The electrical current in Australia is 220-240 volts, AC 50Hz. Australia uses a flat, but angled, two- or three-pronged plug. If plugging in an appliance or device from the US, you will need a plug adaptor. If your appliances or devices are 110V and do not have a voltage range capacity, you will also need a voltage converter.

Currency – Australia’s unit of currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD$), with both dollar bills and coins. Purchases are subject to “rounding” of amounts either up or down to the nearest 5 cents. ATMs are the best resource for obtaining local currency, so you’ll want to ensure that your bank is notified of your travel plans, and understand the fees that your bank charges for withdrawals from a non-network ATM.