Ruqayyah Snyder
Australia is known for its unique slang, which can be tricky to decipher for newcomers. Colloquial Australian, known as Strine, is characterised by a distinctive drawl and the omission of certain sounds, such as the 'r' at the end of words. Aussies are known for their friendly and relaxed demeanour, which is reflected in their language. Greeting someone with G'day, mate is a classic Australian welcome. The country's vast and diverse landscape, from its famous coastlines to the Outback, provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities like camping and barbecues, or barbies. The Australian passion for travel and exploration is evident in their slang, with phrases like going walkabout derived from Indigenous Australian history. Whether you're embarking on a backpacking trip or a short holiday, learning the local lingo will surely enhance your Australian adventure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Official language | English |
| Colloquial Australian | Strine |
| Common expression | "Ava-good-wee-gend" |
| Other ways to say it | "Good afternoon", "Have a nice weekend", "Bon voyage" |
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What You'll Learn
- Sun protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and light clothing. Australia has a high rate of skin cancer
- Safety: Australia is generally safe, but take precautions with wildlife and natural disasters
- Planning: Figure out what you want to do and see, and how long you want to stay
- Budgeting: Research and plan your budget to suit your itinerary
- Transport: Consider transport options, like road trips, flights, and public transport
Sun protection: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and light clothing. Australia has a high rate of skin cancer
Australia is famous for its sunny climate, but it's important to take precautions to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays. Australia has a high rate of skin cancer, so it's crucial to take sun protection seriously.
One of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun is to wear sunscreen. Sunscreen use is one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Look for sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, or SPF50+ for the highest level of protection. Sunscreen should be applied generously to all exposed skin, with at least one teaspoon per limb and one teaspoon for the head. It's important to apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outdoors and to reapply it every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Make sure to check the expiry date and storage conditions, as sunscreen should be stored below 30°C and not used past its expiry date.
In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing is essential. Choose clothing that covers as much skin as possible, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and collared shirts. Clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) provides guaranteed UV protection. A broad-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck, and ears is also recommended, as these areas are common sites for skin cancer. Sunglasses are another important form of protection, and it's best to choose close-fitting wraparound styles that meet the Australian Standard AS/NZS 1067.
Staying in the shade is another way to reduce UV exposure. Seek out trees, built shade structures, or bring your own shade, such as a sunshade tent. Combining shade with other sun protection measures, such as wearing a hat and sunglasses, can significantly reduce your UV radiation exposure. Remember, no single measure is enough, and a combination of sunscreen, protective clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and shade is recommended when the UV Index reaches 3 and above.
By following these sun protection measures, you can help reduce your risk of skin cancer and have a safer and healthier trip to Australia.
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Safety: Australia is generally safe, but take precautions with wildlife and natural disasters
Australia is a large country with a diverse range of landscapes and wildlife. While the country is generally considered safe for tourists, there are some precautions you should take to ensure your safety, especially when it comes to wildlife and natural disasters. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when travelling in Australia:
Wildlife Safety:
Australia is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, but some of these animals can pose a threat to human safety. Snakes, for example, are a common danger, and are responsible for the most fatalities each year, closely followed by bees and wasps. Crocodiles are also a concern, especially in Queensland, where there have been several attacks and fatalities. When visiting areas with crocodile habitats, always stay "croc-wise" and be mindful of any safety advice or warnings. Sharks, spiders, stingrays, and jellyfish can also be dangerous but are less likely to cause serious harm. To minimise the risk of wildlife encounters, follow these guidelines:
- Be cautious around bodies of water, especially after rain, as these areas can attract snakes and crocodiles.
- Wear appropriate clothing, such as light-coloured long sleeves and trousers, a hat, and insect repellent, to protect yourself from insects and the sun.
- Never feed wildlife, as it can harm them and encourage scavenging behaviour.
- Keep food stored securely and dispose of food scraps properly to avoid attracting animals.
- Be mindful of dogs interacting with kangaroos, as kangaroos may feel threatened and become aggressive.
- Give space to wildlife protecting their young, and avoid driving at dawn and dusk when native wildlife is most active.
Natural Disaster Safety:
Australia experiences a range of natural disasters, including bushfires, cyclones, floods, and droughts. These events can be unpredictable and cause significant damage, so it's important to be prepared and informed. Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Research the natural disasters common to your destination and understand the risks.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers natural disasters and other potential emergencies.
- Stay informed about weather conditions and follow local advice and warnings.
- For cyclones and severe weather, avoid coastal areas and follow local guidance on seeking shelter.
- In the event of a bushfire, pay attention to local authorities and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
- If hiking near volcanoes, stay informed about volcanic activity and keep a safe distance from the edge.
By being aware of potential risks and following safety guidelines, you can greatly reduce the chances of encountering problems during your trip to Australia. Remember to stay informed, use common sense, and follow local advice and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
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Planning: Figure out what you want to do and see, and how long you want to stay
Australia is a large country with a lot to see and do, so it's important to plan your trip carefully to make the most of your time there. Consider what kind of traveller you are—are you a foodie, beach lover, or adventurer? Do you want to immerse yourself in the world's oldest living culture, snorkel with magnificent marine life, or relax on a paper-white sand beach? Do you want to see the unique rock formations of the Outback, or the bright lights of cities like Sydney and Melbourne?
Once you have an idea of the type of trip you want to have, you can start planning your itinerary. If you're short on time, it's best to pick several areas that interest you the most and spend more time there, rather than trying to see everything. Some of the most popular places to visit in Australia include Sydney, the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru (Ayers Rock), the Great Ocean Road, Melbourne, Tasmania, and Perth on the west coast. These places are quite far from each other, so it's important to consider the travel time between them. Domestic flights can be a good option to save time, but they can also be expensive.
To save money, consider renting a car and planning a road trip. Australia has a range of road trip options, whether you're seeking culture, countryside, or luxury. Just be sure to budget for rental car costs, fuel, accommodation, and food. You can also use online apps such as Trello, Tripcase, or Tripit to store all your travel information, including itineraries, flight details, car rentals, and packing lists.
When planning your trip, it's also important to consider the time of year you'll be visiting. School holidays and the weather will impact the cost and availability of accommodation, as well as the number of tourists at popular destinations. Finally, if you're visiting Australia as an overseas passport holder, don't forget to apply for a visa before your trip.
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Budgeting: Research and plan your budget to suit your itinerary
Australia is not a budget-friendly destination, and many travellers blow through their budget quickly. However, with careful planning, it is possible to keep costs reasonable. The first step is to research the costs of the various components of your trip, such as accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing, and then plan your budget accordingly.
For accommodation, there are various options to suit different budgets. Australia has numerous hostels, with prices ranging from AUD 20 for a dormitory bed in a hostel to around AUD 85 for a private room. Basic budget hotels start at around AUD 150 per night, while boutique hotels cost around AUD 250 per night. Luxury resorts can cost over AUD 1000 per night. If you are not particular about where you stay, you can find great last-minute deals on hotel booking sites, with prices ranging from AUD 100 to AUD 200 per night.
Food is another important consideration. A cheap, basic meal in Australia will cost around AUD 15-25, while a fancy meal at an upscale restaurant can cost around AUD 60-80. Alcohol is also expensive, with beers costing around AUD 10. Eating out can be made more affordable by taking advantage of happy hours and backpacker bars, which often have drinks for 50% off, and looking for discounts and deals at restaurants. If you have access to a kitchen, cooking your own meals can also save money.
Transportation costs can be kept low by utilizing Australia's extensive public transportation system, which is clean, convenient, and safe. It costs around AUD 2-3 per trip, compared to AUD 20-30 for a taxi or rideshare for a similar journey. In some cities, daily caps on public transportation fares apply, and certain services, such as the Melbourne city circle tram, are free. If you prefer to rent a vehicle, prices start at around AUD 50 per day.
Sightseeing and attractions can also vary in cost. Many of Australia's wilderness areas, such as national parks, are free to visit, although some charge vehicle entry fees. Museums and galleries often offer free entry on certain days or for permanent collections. There are also free historical walking tours in major cities, although donations are expected. For other attractions, such as famous beaches and observation decks, there may be entry fees.
It is important to consider the duration of your trip and the number of places you plan to visit, as longer trips and more destinations will increase your overall budget, especially for transportation. Additionally, travelling during the off-peak season can result in lower prices for flights and accommodation.
By researching the costs of these different aspects of your trip and planning accordingly, you can create a budget that suits your itinerary and ensures you have a fantastic trip to Australia without overspending.
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Transport: Consider transport options, like road trips, flights, and public transport
Australia is a large country, so you'll want to plan your transport options in advance. The country offers a range of transport options, including road trips, flights, and public transport.
If you're considering a road trip, there are many scenic routes to choose from. For example, the East Coast Australia road trip from Sydney to Brisbane offers stunning coastal views, surfing spots, and ancient forests. If you're looking for a longer drive, the Broken Hill and Outback Road Trip from Sydney to Adelaide showcases the diverse landscapes of Australia's outback, including the rugged Blue Mountains National Park.
For those who prefer a more relaxed journey, flying is a convenient option. Qantas, Australia's favourite airline, offers international and domestic flights with entertainment, refreshments, and spacious seats. They also provide exclusive discounts on tours and experiences within Australia.
Public transport in Australia is well-maintained, safe, and clean. The four main options are trains, buses, ferries, and light rail or trams. Each major city has its own electronic or prepaid card system for public transport, offering benefits like discounted fares and capped rates. Most transit authorities also offer smartphone apps to help you navigate public transport options and plan your journeys.
So, whether you choose to hit the open road, fly to your destination, or explore the country via public transport, Australia has a range of transport options to suit your needs.
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Frequently asked questions
English is the official language of Australia.
As English is the official language, "Have a good trip" would be the correct phrase to use. Colloquial Australian is known as "Strine" by some, and to say "Have a good weekend" in Strine, you would say "Ava-good-wee-gend".
Some examples of Australian slang include "Macca's" for McDonald's, "Rubbedy dub" for a pub, "Red hot" for a beer, "Frothies" for beer, "Chardy" for Chardonnay, "Champers" for champagne, "VB" for Victoria Bitter, and "Shandy" for a beer with lemonade. Australians may also use "no worries" in place of "you're welcome" or "don't worry".
Some Australian slang terms can be considered offensive, particularly those related to race or ethnicity. It is important to be respectful and avoid using any slang that may be considered derogatory or inappropriate.
Australia has a diverse range of landscapes, from the outback to the coast. When planning a trip to Australia, it is important to consider the vast distances between places and the different climates across the country. Researching the different regions and planning your itinerary accordingly is essential.
