Travel Australia

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling Australia.

[travelsavage]

Should I continue blogging?

Has anyone enjoyed my blogs or found them remotely useful? I have loads more to give - should I continue writing my blogs?

[andrewschoener]

Nat Young paddling back out in Western Australia.

[travelsavage]

This was the whole beach. No sand in sight. Just tiny, little white shells. Millions of them. With the contract of the crystal sea - the white shells made the perfect paradise. 

Keep update with my blogs to find out where you can find this wonderland. 

[destroyed-and-abandoned]

Paronella Park, a Spanish style castle in Queensland, Australia Source: panafoot (flickr)

[travelsavage]

So my next blog will include the beautiful Paronella Park. Discover the almost forgotten world buried deep in the rain forest.

[travelsavage]

Transport Options in Australia

Are you planning to travel around Australia? 

Do you need some advice on how to travel? Which transport option is best for you? Do you need some resources to start planning your road trip? 

You are in the right place! 

Here are some options for you to consider before setting off. There are pros and cons to all of them:

1. Buy your own car / camper

Buying your own car or camper van will allow you the freedom to travel as and when you want! It's an ideal option for any backpacker. 

If you are looking to buy a vehicle Gumtree is a good place to start looking. Remember: when you go to view a vehicle, try and take someone who knows about cars. You don't want to fork out all your money on something which may go pop in the following week.

Pros

Freedom to travel

Access to places rentals cannot access - mainly off-road

A place to call home - decorate, personalize and enjoy!

Investment. Once you are finished, sell and make some money back. 

Cons

Financial commitment - you will need to purchase, rego, insure and gain a Road Worthy Certificate (depending on which state).

There is no such thing as a cheap motor - don't pay too little as you will only find problems later down the road...

The vehicle is your responsibility - it may be hard to sell at the end of it. 

Any mechanical problems are down to you to fix. 

2.  Renting a car / camper

Renting a car or camper van seems to be a very popular option. You can pick budget campers from Wicked. However, these tend to be dirty and overused. If you can afford something better then try Jucy or Thrifty because their standards tend to be a lot better.

There are a range of options out there, so try and compare before you dive into one. Always read the small print. 

Pros

Quick and easy to pick up and start your travel.

Usually, the campers are of a good, high standard.

Insurance is, usually, covered in the cost of the camper, but make sure you check before driving away. 

The insurance will cover you for most main roads around Australia giving you freedom to travel at your own pace. 

Cons

Most, if not all, will not cover the vehicle for any off-road activity.

Insurance excess can be very expensive. (There is an option to decrease the excess for an additional daily fee, which is often a good option). 

It is not your camper. Graffiti or damage can be costly when returning the vehicle to the drop-off department. 

Read all the small print - some companies wont even cover you if you have an accident reversing. Make sure you read the declaration before you sign. 

Make sure the van is clean and tidy before returning it as most companies will expect it back how it was sent. 

3. Transfer Car

Transfer car is a great option for travelling if you want to get from A to B. This is a company which will allow you to return a rental back to its original department or the department it is needed at. For example, a Transfer car from Cairns needs to be turned ready for a client in June, therefore someone needs to return that car for the transfer company. 

If you are after a direct route, quick as possible journey. This is the option for you. The available cars are updated daily on TransferCar (switch between NZ and AU using the top selection bar). This company will feature brands such as Apollo and Jucy, budget to premier. 

You can also check for transfers on the rentals website directly. 

Here are some very good reasons to use transfer car:

Pros

FREE! Or small fees per day to rent anything from a two berth camper to a fully blown motor home. 

Can pay additional costs (around $50) for extra days travelling. 

Petrol, insurance and the rental is free if they are in desperate need of moving departments. 

Can purchases extra days and extra mileage for a more relaxed journey. 

Obviously, driving at night is NOT advises so any night, dusk or dawn driving is NOT included in the time limit. So relax. 

If you are flexible with dates, you can be alerted if a camper is going your way!

Cons

A set route, time and mileage for your trips (unless you purchases extra days). 

Very limited availability, must be quick and ready to leave. 

Like a game of poker, leave it long enough; everything will be free (because they are so desperate), leave it too long and they will be snatched up. 

Doesn't give you the freedom a normal rental or your own vehicle would. 

4. Trains and Buses

Greyhound trains and buses run all over Australia at regular intervals. They are usually all day or all night transfers so are quick and reliable. They can go from anywhere - main cities to outback - outback to cities. 

Pros

Reliable and regular. 

Affordable. 

Quick. 

Various routes to choose from.

Travel to almost every main town or city in Australia. 

Ideal for last minute travel plans.

Cons 

Can be very busy and book up quickly. 

Long hours travelling with few breaks. 

May not be able to completely suit your needs - may not arrive where you want on a particular day. 

Tickets can be expensive compared to other methods, so check before booking.

5. Flights

Domestic flights in Australia are a great option for traveling. Australia has airports in nearly every main city or town. They are definitely worth a look at:

Pros

Reliable and easy 

Quickest form of transport 

Easy to book

No long waits (usually 1 hour before flight)

Competitive prices (try FlightCentre)

If your plane is cancelled - you will be looked after by the airline.

Cheaper than rentals.

Cons

You miss a lot of the journey by flying 

Can be costly if flying into small airports.

Baggage limits means you may only be able to take certain belongings on the plane. 

Transfers to and from the airport can be costly. 

So now you have seen the 5 main options, I have a conclusion: 

If you want to explore, relax and enjoy your road trip... then a car is the option for you. 

If you want to get from A to B with no rush, but not necessarily want to explore too far... then a rental is the way to go. 

If you are flexible and  simply want a free / cheap transfer with no hassle but not worried about seeing anything whilst your on the road... then a transfer car is the perfect solution!

If you want to get somewhere in the outback without huge prices of an plane ticket... then a GreyHound bus or train is the way forward. 

If you want to just get to the next place, start again, and get there as quick as possible for as cheap as possible... then a plane ticket should see you right. 

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. I hope this blog has been helpful. 

[travelsavage]

How To Budget Your Money Whilst Travelling

In Australia, there are several ways to budget your money for minimum spending. If your a shopaholic, love your food or a bit of a party animal - here are some tips to help you save some of your money:

1. Start with your bank account

It's really easy to save some money when you are travelling. Pop into your Australian bank and ask to open a 'saver account'. This is a separate account to your normal 'current account'. If you already have one, some banks will open one automatically when you open your account, then that's great. You have completed the first step.

Transfer money into your saving account. Keep this money as your 'support fund'. It only has to be $100 or so - just enough to get you out of a sticky situation. For example, if you are a driver and planning a road trip, increase your 'support fund' to $500 to cover any mechanical repairs you may need whilst travelling. However, if you are just spending time working in the city, you can drop your 'support fund' down to $50. This money can be used if you forget your train ticket or need a taxi. 

Some banks will let you access your savings account when you pay by EFPOS, however, some wont. Ask your bank to change your account to suit your needs. If you will need it - get access to it. But only use it for emergencies. 

You can also use your savings for putting a little bit of money aside each week for upcoming events, flights, rent etc. But don't break into it unless it's essential. The next few tips should ensure you don't break into it...

2. Collecting Extra Money

By collecting extra money, I mean saving tips from work if you are a waiter or just emptying the change out of your wallet once a week and putting it into the bank. If you ask the teller of your bank for little money bags, you can save this way and also make it your goal to save as much as possible. Cents makes dollars! 

Not only will this spare money be helpful to your bank account, but it might also work in your favor if you collect it for your phone top-ups, or train fare.

3. Budgeting your Shopping

Shopping is always expensive, especially if there is a big group of you. 

Avoid 24 hour stores and small brand supermarkets - they work out a lot more expensive compared to the big brand shops. However, sometimes small supermarkets will have great offers on so don't avoid them. 

Big brand shops like Coles and Woolworths generally have good competitive prices. Sometimes it's cheaper in one than the other so if you have time, visit a couple of big brands if you need something in particular. 

Work out what is best for you when shopping. If there are four of you, buy multi packs, if there are just one or two of you, then buy singles. For example, a four pack of corn might cost $3, whereas a single could cost $1. If your not going to use four, then buy one or two. It will only get thrown away. 

Cheese and other expensive goods are better bought from the deli. A big chunk of feta could set you back a handful of dollars, whereas if it's only you eating it, why not ask the deli for exactly how much you want on your dinner? "A small handful will do."

4. Keep your Dockets (receipts) 

When you go shopping, keep your docket. Even self-checkouts will give you the option of printing a receipt. Most big-brand shops like Woolworth will have discounts and vouchers on the back. Sometimes they are pretty useless, like spa treatments and printing vouchers for business cards. However, sometimes they are great. Occasionally, you might get so much off a McDonalds,or a free Sushi dish, or just a bit of money off one of your favorite shops. Collect them. They might come in handy! 

5. Clothes, Household Goods, Electrics

In Australia, Charity shops are more of a business. They sell good quality stuff for fractions of the price. If you have a job interview and have no shoes, visit a Salvo or a Vinnies, why pay huge prices for something you only need once?

Salvos will also stock other goods like kettles, if your camping; curtains, if your building a camper; and coats, if there is a sudden downpour and your caught out. They are worth a go. Seriously, try them!

6. ALCOHOL!

The backpackers favorite!

Okay, alcohol isn't massively cheap - but there are ways of making it cheaper. First off, the more you buy, the cheap it is. If you're having a huge party - buy it in bulk! You can split your money at the till if need be. 

Just want to get drunk and don't care what it takes like? Then Goon is the answer. Everyone has heard of this magical drink - gets you drunk quick and doesn't break the bank. Well, I hate to say, it's not that magical. It's just cast wine. You can buy 5 liter boxes for $15. That will do you a couple of nights. And yes, it's wine, so it will get you drunk. It's an ideal backpackers drink! But remember, the hangover will hit - and it will hit hard! 

Other alcohols like vodka and rum can be quite expensive, so stray from the premier brands and imports and go for a less known one, that will save you a few dollars. 

7. Internet and Phones

Because now a days, we are all so social! There are a few tips to spend a little bit less on your phone and internet bill. 

Most places have free WIFI - bars, campsites, restaurants etc. Use that first. You will usually get around 50MB or 3 hours (for a campsite), so use it before you go diving into your phone bill. 

When you can, use internet instead of calls or text, especially if it's international. There are some great apps on the app store available for WIFI messages, otherwise, good old Facebook. 

When it comes to your phone, forget the contact. Just get a cheap, Nokia or similar, prepaid phone and top it up. You can pick up a phone for around $20. If you pop into your network brand, they will usually have some good tariffs like 'so many minutes for so much'. That will save you money. 

In Australia, your credit will expire (usually) after 30 days, so topping up huge bundles to get 100,000 minutes, isn't such a great idea! 

Also, if you loose your phone; it wont matter so much! 

Another point about internet is getting a USB internet stick is not as good as it seems. The internet gets eaten up by Facebook, YouTube and all the other sites you probably want to use the internet for. If you just want to browse every now and again about the weather - they would be great!

8. Saving Money on Transport

If you have a car and you're in the city - don't drive it. Sitting in traffic jams and lights will only burn all your petrol and cost you money! 

Transport links in Australia tend to be very good. For example, a train in Perth will cost around $4 (from 2 suburbs away into the city) and if you return within 3 hours, your return is free! The trains run through the middle of the free way and have stops in most suburbs. So take the train! 

If you are working and you need to get a bus or a train, work out how much you spend a week and then ask the ticket man how much for a weeks pass. This can save you quite a lot of money, especially if you're doing split shifts. 

So that's it. 

I hope some of these tips have been helpful and I wish you the best of luck with saving your cents! 

Let me know how much you manage to save a week and I'll post with the best! 

Happy saving!

[travelsavage]

Broome

Broome, in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, is primarily known for it's pearling and tourism. 2,200 km North of Perth make it a perfect destination for a WA road trip. 

Whether you're a sun worshiper or into history; Broome is the ideal spot. With beautiful beaches, quaint china town and interesting background, it would be a shame to miss it.

Cable Beach

Cable beach is a world famous beach. The 22.5 km white sanded beach is known for it's fast tide and surfing waves. This beautiful place is only 7 km from the main town area. Lined with cafes and bars close by, it is an ideal place to chill out and relax.

Swimming at Cable beach is advised only between the designated areas due to its quick tide and sometime quite boisterous waves. From November to March, it is advised not to swim at all due to the jellyfish season but for the remainder of the year, you can expect to swim in cool, tranquil waters. 

The beach itself is easy to access with a large car park situated at the top of the easy-to-climb steps located near the swimming area. The beach also offers four-wheel access onto the beach from the far end of the car park. For couples and families, the beach is usually relaxed and spacious, meaning you can escape to a quiet spot and enjoy the sunshine.

Roebuck Bay and Town Beach

On the other side of the town peninsula, you will find Roebuck Bay and Town Beach. This side of the town is just as beautiful but is more quiet than cable beach with a more of a town feel to the place. 

With red rock and greenery scattering the coast line, it's the perfect snapshot. The sand here is more coarse with finer detail in the rocks. An ideal exploring ground. If you are a good climber, there are some beautiful rocks to climb up and explore.

Near by is the jetty at Sandy Point where ships will land daily. This is also a beautiful location for a spot of fishing. Fishing is regulated on the jetty and quite often your catch is monitored at the department based at the end. Some big fish are landed on this jetty, so it's worth a go.

The Roebuck Bay and Town Beach are also famous from it's 'Staircase to the Moon' which occurs several times a year. The moon and the tide combined on this evening for an amazing natural phenomenon. An ideal picture moment if your camera is steady enough to capture it. 

Gantheaume Point

Gantheume Point is a beautiful place to visit whilst in Broome. Close to Cable Beach, the jagged, red rock point is a fantastic experience.

The higher rocks towards the point are ideal for setting up to fish during high tide and the side rocks are filled with little lagoons, perfect for sitting in and enjoying the view. The waves tend to be quite harsh against the rocks as the tide comes in, so care should be taken when walking around on the lower rocks. Slips and slides can occur.

30 meters from the point, at low tide, Dinosaur footprints and plant fossils can be seen in the rocks. These footprints are estimated to be around 130 million years old. A real treat to see. 

Pearling Industry

The pearling industry is displayed all over Broome with its museums and galleries lining the towns closed point to Roebuck Bay. It's galleries offer free talks and demonstrations of the pearling industry as well as paid tours around some of the equipment and accessories.

If you are interested in learning about the history of Broome, these galleries are the place to go. They also have some of the world's largest pearls on display in the shops - a great opportunity to have a look!

The Town and China Town

Broome is a small town. It has a very personal feel and relaxed atmosphere. Along with its usual big branded supermarkets, Broome also offers small, unique shops such as surf shops and handmade clothes. If you stray from the main shopping street into the alleys, there are some real gems to be discovered.

Places to Eat and Drink

Matso's Brewery 

An ideal place for a quiet drink, a party evening or a fantastic meal. With a huge range of home brewed ciders and beers to choose from, a beautiful menu, you will be set for the night. Try their chili beer as a shot - let me know what you think!

Zanders

Zanders is a restaurant located right on Cable Beach. It's primary spot makes it a perfect eating and drinking destination. Family friendly and easy parking access make it ideal for any time of the day. It also offers an outdoor Kiosk for those who want to grab a bit to eat or a coffee for the beach. It's location makes it ideal for sitting outside and watching the sun set over cable beach.

Places to Stay

Cable Beach Caravan Park is ideal for those who are traveling with their own transport. They have a range of sites from powered budget accommodation to cabins with en-suites. They have all the facilities you should need including kitchen, BBQ area, shower blocks and all only 5 mintes from Cable Beach.

Overflow campsites open during the peak season. These are great for a few nights cheap. But they have limited facilities, no kitchen, only showers, but can usually offer limited power sites. These sites will cost you from around $20 a day with a maximum of 7 nights stay.

For a luxurious stay, try the Oaks Hotels.They have two Broome hotels, one at Cable beach and one at Town beach. Both hotels offer beautiful accommodation, luxurious pools and elite environments. They both hold their own restaurants and bars and are a perfect place to relax in style. 

[citylandscapes]

Sydney Opera House - Australia

[travelsavage]

A stunning picture of a beautiful place!

[travelsavage]

Things to Know - Preparing to Backpack Around Australia

So your thinking, or planning on backpacking around Australia? 

Good choice! 

I've put together a step-by-step guide to ensure you are fully prepared for your Great Adventure. Also, I have thrown in some handy tips, advice and links to useful sources.

I hope I can cover everything for you, but if you need any additional information, please feel free to comment or contact me directly. I'd be glad to help. 

So here goes...

1. First, the Visa!

There are several different types of Visas you can apply for if you would like to travel around Australia. From the basic Tourist visa to Student visa to Working-Holiday visa. 

Most backpackers will opt for the Working-Holiday visa. This is a great option for those seeking flexibility throughout their travels. Here are some facts on the Working-Holiday Visa:

You can enter the country anytime between the visa being granted and up to 12 months afterwards.

You are valid to stay in the country for 12 months once you have entered.

You can enter and leave the country as and when. 

You can apply to extend your visa for another 12 months through a Second Working-Holiday Visa.

You can work for the same employer for up to 6 months.

You can study in Australia for up to 4 months. 

However, you will need to take these facts into account before applying:

You may need a medical examination to complete your application

You may need character references 

You need a valid passport.

You need to be able to meet the financial requirements. 

You need a return ticket or the additional funds to give you access to leave the country on the correct date of visa expiry.

There are a lot of rules and regulations to the Working-Holiday Visa so take the time to study it before you apply.

Visit Immi for further information (The Australian Government Website)

Or pop into your local STA Travel - they will be able to help you with any questions and also help with the application process. 

2. Money!

The visa itself requires money. You will also need enough money to see you through, at least, the first few weeks. There are a few things you should know about financing this trip:

Spending money in Australia is very easy! 

Take into account - accommodation, flights, visa, transport.

Open an Australian bank account as soon as you arrive - or before - if possible. Australia relies heavily on bank accounts for depositing wages etc. Westpac is a highly recommended bank to start with.

Preparing to bring your money over - bank transfers can take up to 2 weeks (plus your transfer fee, exchange rate and fee).

Again, STA Travel can help with a bulk of these things so they are really worth the visit. They can also set you up with starter packs which include bank accounts, phone, etc. 

3. Flights - Compare, compare, compare!

The price in flights can vary greatly depending on what season you wish to arrive in, how quick you want to get there, where you want to land. So you're best bet is to compare, compare, compare! 

Here are a few tips about booking the best fights:

Comparison websites are fantastic. Try MoneySupermarket, SkyScanner or even TripAdvisor. 

Once you have found your cheapest price, find a company to beat your lowest price. Try the highly recommendable: DialAFlight

Some flights, for example, from London to Perth, can cost as little as £300! But check out the hours of flying - some can be up to 52 hours in the air... and that's excluding your transfer times! 

Go with the airline you are most happy with - if it's between Qantas and an unknown small airline - go with what you know! 

It may also be work looking into upgrade options like booking your seat in advance, more leg room, on-board meals. It's a long flight - be comfortable! 

Remember: Read the small print, get a good seat and don't be late for the flight - and you'll be fine! 

4. Destination and Season

Now you have your visa, money, and flights sorted - you need to plan your adventure in detail. 

When do you want to arrive? What season will that be? What part of Australia do you want to start in? Do you need to work straight away? 

These are all the questions you should be asking yourself. Here are a few pointers:

Low Season:

A low season is when the tourist levels are at their lowest. These is usual down to the weather. For example, Perth's season will be at its lower point when it is cooler. Whereas Queensland and Darwin will be at its lowest point during the wet season where it is very hot and humid. 

Travelling to the city in the low season is a good idea if you want to set yourself up with work ready for the peak season, want to ween yourself in gently or have plans on staying in that city for a while. 

Peak Season: 

The high season is when the tourist levels are very high. This is usual when the weather and working conditions are perfect. For example, Sydney is usual always in peak season as it is always showing a massive availability of jobs, but also the weather is so live-able. Unlike Cairns, when the season is at it's peak, it is very difficult to find jobs as most are already taken. Towards the end of the season, places like Cairns will want Permanent Residence to employ as they know that tourist are slim during the low season. 

Arriving in Peak Season is great if you want to throw yourself straight into the Australian life style and party! Just remember, that requires money! 

Of course, there are some anomalies to these rules - some places have an almost all-year-round vibe to them, whereas others are very difficult to live in during certain times.

Ideally, Perth is the best destination for arriving in Australia. Most of the year is cooler, so it's easy to plunge into life here. The city is big but not bustling. It's easy to find your feet in this city. Jobs are almost always around. And also, it is not a huge flight! But of course, it's your decision to make.

5. Essential Packing

So you want to pack all your shoes, your shirts, your best jewelry, your iPhone, iPad, laptop, camera..... woo! Stop! 

Remember you have to carry all these on your back! 

Talking of that... I have one word of advice to all of you....

Suitcase! 

Yes, you want to be a backpacker and want the original look of a rugged tourist stumbling through the outback... it's not worth it....

Grab yourself a good quality, wheeled suitcase! It will make your life easier. And ladies, it's easier on your back and chest! If you insist - get a supporting backpacker with straps around the waiste and chest. You will need it.

Pack all your important travel documents first. Get a waterproof, sealed folder. Don't want shampoo all over your passport! 

Take only the important valuables - camera, phone, laptop if necessary. 

Clothes - shorts, jeans, t-shirt, dress for the ladies, pants, socks, and flip-flops. Don't go crazy - you probably wont even wear it all. 

Bushmans Insect Repellent - if you can't pick it up before you go, pick it up as soon as you get there. 40 D is the best and will keep you safe from almost ever biting insect.

Ok - so there is the basics. 

There is a lot more to know when planning your trip to Australia - you may have special requirements which aren't covered in this blog. But I hope the brief information I have included will help you. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to comment or contact me directly. 

Please use the sources in the blog for financial information. 

Happy Traveling!

[travelsavage]

Why Travel Around Australia?

Australia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world - known for it's iconic landscapes, beautiful beaches and of course, fantastic weather.

Australia is one of the few countries which hold both tropical and dessert environments, making the wild life both interesting and diverse. As you will already know, Australia is also famous for it's range of 'dangerous' wildlife and the change to get up close and personal with animals which aren't found anywhere else in the world. 

Backpacking around Australia is a daunting thought; heat, dehydration, dangerous species and baron space is only a few things to consider before plunging yourself into the unknown. 

However, the beauty of seeing some very famous places tops the risk of danger. After all, nothing comes without a risk. From visiting the dolphins in Monkey Mia to the world famous, Sydney Opera House, to the Great Barrier Reef just off Queensland - this country is the perfect place to forget your troubles and escape into the land. 

So pack your bags and check your passport - we're travelling around Australia.