You can safely drink the tap water throughout Australia; however, it’s important to verify the water-quality standards in more rural areas of the country.
Australia Travel Information
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Australia is the world’s sixth largest country, a vast landmass marked by otherworldly beauty and unlimited attractions. Among its many tourist highlights are iconic natural wonders and vibrant cities, headlined by the Great Barrier Reef, the sacred monolith Uluru, and the world-famous Sydney Opera House.
Visitors to Australia also flock to the Daintree Rainforest, the stunning Great Ocean Road, and wildlife-rich Kangaroo Island. Other must-see spots include vibrant, artistic Melbourne, the rugged Kimberley region, and the towering Blue Mountains.
Where to begin when planning your vacation to Australia? Contact one of our Destination Specialists today for personalized travel advice and service.
What (and How) to Pack for Australia
Australia’s climate can be broadly divided into four seasons—summer, autumn, winter, and spring—so it’s essential to pack flexibly and to bring an array of clothes, depending on when you’re travelling and the destinations on your itinerary.
At the same time, domestic flights in Australia have very strict weight limits for carry-on baggage—as low as seven kilograms (15 pounds) per person—so pack accordingly: Bring lightweight garments that can be layered atop each other, and pack toiletries in small, carry-on containers.
Lastly, don’t forget your sunscreen and a sunhat: Australia has some of the harshest sun in the world, with high UV radiation levels. Make sure, too, that you have the correct adaptors for your electrical appliances: The standard plug type in Australia is Type I, featuring a trio of flat pins arranged in a unique triangular configuration.
Practical Info for Australia
To enter Australia, all non-Australian citizens need a valid passport (valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay) and a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). An ETA, which is distinct from a tourist visa and is often used in place of one, allows visits of up to three months, so it’s the better choice if you aim to stay in Australia for more than a few weeks. The ideal Australia vacation would be one of at least three weeks, allowing you to see a variety of states and more of Australia’s diverse natural environments. A longer stay also allows you to acclimate after the long international flight and accompanying jet lag.
Health and Safety in Australia
Australia is a very safe nation for all manner of travellers, with a diverse population and strong laws protecting visitors from discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. It is also one of the most peaceful countries in the world and has a low crime rate.
At the same time, discretion should be exercised in rural areas, which can be more conservative than major urban centres. Australia has an excellent healthcare system, but travel health insurance is nonetheless advised for tourists.
Top Destinations and Experiences in Australia
For the first-time visitor, the most popular Australia vacation spots are Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef in tropical North Queensland, and the Red Centre of the Northern Territory, where you’ll find Uluru/Ayers Rock.
The beauty of Australia is that it’s so vast and diverse, with travel opportunities for every kind of traveller. Other vacation spots that will dazzle include Southern Queensland, Adelaide and Kangaroo Island in South Australia, Perth in Western Australia, and the island state of Tasmania. To find an itinerary that’s right for you, consult our main Australia page or speak to one of our experts.
Etiquette and Customs in Australia
Australians highly value respect, humility and humour, so a positive attitude and a cheerful G’day mate are always welcome on your Australia trip. It's thoughtful to bring a small gift when invited to someone's home, like wine or chocolates, and to contribute some drinks, snacks or desserts to any barbecue (or barbie) you've been invited to. Remember, too, to join in the toast before taking your first sip when sharing a round of drinks! It’s also customary to wave when passing other drivers on country roads or if they let you through in traffic.
For a fuller look at what to expect from Australians on your Australia vacation, visit our Culture and Traditions page.
Australia’s Food Culture
Food and wine lovers will find much to savour in Australia, which is home to cutting-edge restaurants, unique traditional cuisine, world-class wineries, and a thriving coffee culture.
“North Americans should be aware that adding cream to coffee is just not a thing in Australia,” says Destination Specialist Alice Teramoto. “In Australia it’s milk only!”
Given the country’s sophistication, those with special dietary needs—whether vegetarian or vegan, lactose-intolerant or gluten-free—can be easily accommodated Down Under. Just be sure to discuss options beforehand with your tour operator or guide.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Australia Vacation with Goway
It’s impossible to overstate the diversity and uniqueness of an Australia vacation. Whatever your interests or style, there’s a destination and itinerary for you. Book your custom Australia trip with Goway today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink the tap water in Australia?
When is summer vacation in Australia?
Since Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, summer vacation takes place from December until late January or early February. This vacation period also coincides with the Christmas holidays.
Do I need to wear sunscreen in Australia?
Australia has some of the harshest sun in the world, with high UV radiation levels. Be prepared to heavily apply sunscreen and wear a hat when outdoors in Australia, especially in the Outback, on a cruise, or on any of the country’s many beaches, including Bondi Beach in Sydney.
What are the best vacation spots in Australia?
For the first-time visitor, the most popular Australia vacation spots are Sydney, Melbourne, the Great Barrier Reef in tropical North Queensland, and the Red Centre of the Northern Territory, where you’ll find Uluru/Ayers Rock. Those with a little more time should also check out Adelaide and Kangaroo Island in South Australia, Perth in Western Australia, and the island state of Tasmania.
How do I plan a vacation to Australia?
Get in touch with one of our Destination Specialists! We’re the leading tailor-made travel agency for Australia vacations and have the expertise and insights to plan a trip that’s right for you.
Does Australia have halal options?
Halal options are common in the major cities of Australia. Most beef and lamb in the nation are halal-certified, and many other foods come in halal options. However, halal foods may be limited in smaller communities and in the nation’s interior. If you are still concerned, ask your Destination Specialist about vacation packages that can accommodate your dietary needs.
Is travel safe as a person of colour (POC) in Australia?
Australia is a very safe nation for all manner of travellers, with a diverse population and strong laws protecting visitors from discrimination based on ethnicity. It is one of the most peaceful countries in the world and has a low crime rate.
Is Australia LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes, Australia is a diverse and safe nation, with strong laws that prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. On the whole, people are welcoming and accepting, especially in major cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, which have large Pride parades and diverse neighbourhoods that cater specifically to the LGBTQ+ community. While attitudes might be more conservative in smaller centres away from the major cities, the vast majority of Australians are respectful and welcoming of all travellers.
What side of the road do people drive on in Australia?
People drive on the left side of the road in Australia, and the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car. Remember that basic elements of the car are reversed for North American drivers, so windshield wipers and turn signals are also on opposite sides.
What can I bring into Australia?
As long as you declare it, you can bring most items into Australia, except for weapons, illicit drugs, and all manner of illegal goods. You’re also not allowed to bring animals, live plants, counterfeit goods, or fireworks. All food should also be declared on arrival, as Australia is very strict when it comes to biosecurity.
Do I need to tip in Australia?
Tipping in Australia is not mandatory or expected, but tips for good service are appreciated.
What currency does Australia use?
The official currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar (AUD). You’ll find ATMs that dispense Australian dollars throughout the country, so don’t worry too much about bringing cash with you (although doing so can save you on the withdrawal rates at foreign ATMs). Typically, $1USD is worth $1.50 AUD, but exchange rates are always fluctuating, so check the latest rates before travelling.
Australia Travel Information
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ExcellentBased on 5,127 ReviewsI cannot sing Erin’s praises enough! She planned an action-packed two-week New Zealand itinerary that hit every single stop on our bucket list. Every experience was truly first-class and luxurious. While I found myself being price-conscious initially, once I saw the incredible quality of the experiences she curated, I knew it was going to be the trip of a lifetime. A huge thank you to Erin and Go Way Travel for making my 50th birthday so epic. We’ll definitely be reaching out for our next big adventure!MichelleExpertise, experience, great information and tailored to just what my client needed!StephanieThis was my second time working with Taha Colombowala, Group Specialist. Our journey to Ghana was top notch! 🇬🇭 The accommodations, curated tours, and coordination with the team on the ground made the this trip quite amazing.
Taha was very supportive throughout the entire process. Goway makes me look like a superstar with my clients!! I am already planning new itineraries.
Denise WatkinsI booked this trip to Adelaide with Goway, after using them before when we explored the 'big' sites of Australia. This time, we went to Adelaide to go to three of the top wine growing areas for wine tastings. We were a small group of 4 people. It was made better as the vendor used Small Batch Wine Tours for all of our excursions. They were fantastic making us the only travelers on these tours. Matthew, the owner, even adjusted our wineries on the last day to go to different place. This place totally marked off everything we were looking for in wine. Ended up buying a couple of bottles.
Between Goway setting it up and Small Batch Wine Tours running the actual tours we had a beautiful and seamless trip. not applicableWe had an Amazing trip. Melissa put together a completely seamless and epic journey, with ZERO issues, everything worked like clockwork and was Perfect!!
Everything we set up and expected to happen worked out exactly as planned!
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Donald NLand Package booked was for Bora Bora. The Goway Agent priced out 3 different resorts in the same area. Before making a final decision, she even obtained the menus at the Resort so the clients could decide if they wanted to purchase the 1/2 board meal package. With extreme patience, the agent obtained answers to all of our questions. It was so nice to have this package inclusive of all taxes and resort fees and to have a local agent meet the clients upon their arrival in PPT. EMDI had an absolutely wonderful experience working with Shalini. From the very first conversation, she was warm, welcoming, and genuinely invested in helping me plan the perfect trip. she took the time to understand what I was looking for, offered thoughtful suggestions, and shared incredibly helpful insights that only someone with deep knowledge and passion for travel could provide.
What really stood out was how easy she made everything feel. Every question I had—big or small—was answered with patience and clarity. her recommendations were spot‑on, and I never felt rushed or pressured. Instead, I felt supported, informed, and excited about my plans.
If you’re looking for someone who is friendly, attentive, and truly committed to creating a great travel experience, I can’t recommend Shalini highly enough. She turned what could have been a stressful process into something enjoyable and inspiring.enzo r redaI would like to recognize the outstanding support provided by the Goway Travel team, and especially Yael, during a very challenging situation involving my customers who were stranded in Dubai.
From the moment the issue arose, Yael and the team were incredibly supportive, working through multiple options to secure flights and ensure my customers could return home safely. Their persistence, professionalism, and willingness to explore every possible solution made a stressful situation much easier to manage.
Throughout the process, communication was clear, timely, and reassuring. It was evident that the team was fully committed to the well-being of the traveler and to resolving the situation as quickly as possible.
I truly appreciate the dedication shown by Yael and the Goway Travel team. Their actions reflect a strong commitment to customer care and partnership, and I’m very grateful for the support they provided in getting my customer home safely.
Thank you Goway.
Tamara Kincek from Expedia Cruises ChilliwackTamara Our trip to Asia was fantastic! From the beginning of registration, working with Ameet Duggal, to the actual trip, the service Goway provided was outstanding! Ameet was great to work with. He was kind, professional and answered all my questions whenever they arose.
Our guides in all four locations (Hong Kong, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Siem Reap) were all exceptional. All were very well informed, spoke English very well, had a great sense of humor, were always on time, and paid attention to all the details so as to make our trip absolutely problem free and enjoyable.
We were picked up at all locations at the airport, and returned there, in a punctual manner. The drivers were great, especially Bros in Siem Reap. All had lots of water for us because is was pretty hot everywhere we went.
Food was wonderful and all the sites we visited were interesting and beautiful. I was especially impressed with how our guides knew how and when to navigate certain sites to avoid large crowds. They situated our visits so we would avoid the intense heat.
All in all, I would definitely consider doing another independent tour with Goway. I would also recommend your services to anyone who wished to travel abroad, especially to Asia!
Jamie FerbezarI had the pleasure of working with Erin. It was my first time booking something in Europe and let me tell you Erin made everything easy and very simple for us to follow. She booked everything for us from our plane tickets private transfers and all of our tours that we did in Ireland. She nailed it. I would definitely recommend booking with GoAway travel and if you have Erin as your travel agent she make sure everything is covered. 10 out of 10. Ness Hedge
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