OVERVIEW
Australia is the world’s 6th largest country and is also one of the most diverse, not just geographically but culturally as well. With its vast open landscapes, breath-taking natural parks and pristine stretches of coastline, it’s easy to see why Australia is so popular with tourists, who flock here from all over the world.
In Australia, the country’s biggest cities are situated along the coastline. Sydney is famous for its vibrant culture, lively bar scene and golden beaches, while Melbourne is known for its elegant architecture, its edgy art and music scene, and its museums. To the north, you will find the multicultural tropical city of Darwin which overlooks the Timor Sea and serves as the perfect base from which to visit Kakadu National Park or the Tiwi Islands, while to the south you can discover the cosmopolitan Tasmanian capital of Hobart.
If you would prefer to get off the beaten track and savour Australia’s overwhelming natural beauty there are countless places to visit. Meet the penguins, kangaroos and koalas which call Phillip Island home, delve into the majestic valleys and forests of the Blue Mountains and go diving and snorkelling on the world-famous Great Barrier Reef, with its myriad species of colourful marine life. Then of course, there is always the iconic Ayers Rock to visit.
However, if you are heading to Australia with young children, it might be a better idea to stick to more populated areas. Australia’s cities are home to many fun-filled child-friendly attractions, from the Sea Life Sydney Aquarium to the Dreamworld Theme Park on the Gold Coast in Queensland, so it won’t be difficult to put together an exciting family holiday itinerary.
What is the currency in Australia?
The official currency of Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD)
How long does it take to fly to Australia?
The flight time varies depending on the destination you are visiting and how many stops you make. As a benchmark, the total flight time between London and Melbourne is 21 hours, 30 minutes.
What is the time difference in Australia?
Again, the time difference varies depending on what region of Australia you are visiting, as the country is sprawled across 13 time zones. The time difference between London and Canberra is 11 hours.
When is the best time to visit Australia?
The climate varies in different parts of Australia so it’s best to check the local weather conditions in your chosen location. As a guideline, the best time to visit Melbourne is between March and May and September to November, while the best time to visit Perth is from September to April.
What language is spoken in Australia?
While Australia has no official language, English is predominantly spoken here, though it is worth bearing in mind that Australian English has a distinct vocabulary which often renders it dissimilar to British English. Other commonly spoken languages include Italian, Cantonese and Greek.
Do I need a visa to visit Australia?
You will need to obtain a visa before visiting Australia. To find out more please visit this FCO website link.
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