Phone: 509-747-3000 / 800-288-3788
502 W. Riverside Avenue, Suite 203 (In Skywalk), Spokane, WA 99201 (509) 747-3000 / (800) 288-3788 / FAX (509) 747-4733 Copyright ©2010
Australia & New Zealand Travel Tips
AUSTRALIA TRAVEL TIPS
When you are planning a vacation to Australia and the South Pacific, please remember that Australia is an island the size of the U.S.A. It is wider across than the distance from New York to Los Angeles but has a population of only 23 million people.
Passports and Visas
A valid visa is required for all people wishing to travel to Australia. Visitors of all nationalities (except Australian and New Zealand passport holders) must obtain a visa prior to arrival. We can assist on Electronic Visas to customers that have booked with us, prior to your departure.
Currency
The Australian unit of currency is the Australian dollar.
Credit Cards & Traveler's Checks
Exchange facilities can be found at all international airports and foreign currency or travelers' checks can be exchanged at banks and large hotels. Normal bank opening hours are from 9:30am to 4:00pm, Monday to Thursday and 9:00am to 5:00pm on Friday. All major credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, banks and most stores.
Goods and Services Tax
Most goods and services purchased in Australia are subject to a 10% Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is usually included in the displayed price. You may apply for a refund on the GST but only on goods costing A$300 (GST inclusive) or more, bought from the same store no more than 60 days before you leave Australia, which are to be taken with you as hand luggage or worn onto the aircraft upon your departure. If you have a receipt for MORE THAN A$1000, you need to have the store enter your name and address on the receipt, otherwise it will be rejected.Further information is available from Australian Customs upon arrival.
Tourist Refund Scheme
When in Australia you can claim a refund on the tax you pay on some goods and services (except consumables). Refunds available at major airports in Australia.
Electricity
The electric current used in Australia is 240 volts AC, 50 hertz. Sockets take two or three flat, not rounded, prongs. North Americans and Europeans will need to buy a converter before they leave home (don't wait until you get to Australia, because Australian stores are only likely to stock converters for Aussie appliances to fit American and European outlets). Some large hotels have 110V outlets for electric shavers or dual voltage, and some will lend converters; but don't count on it in smaller, less expensive hotels, motels, or B&Bs. Power does not start automatically when you plug in an appliance; you need to flick the switch located beside the socket to the "on" position.
Driving in Australia
A bonafide tourist may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's license. Please remember to drive on the left hand side of the road.
Shopping
Australia is a true shopping heaven. All major cities have extensive shopping facilities with malls, arcades and specialty shops selling a wide range of home-produce and international products. In the last few years Aboriginal art has increased in popularity. Duty-free shopping can be enjoyed in every capital city and international airports.
Fine Food and Wine
If you're passionate about fine food and wine, you'll fall in love with Australia. Fresh seafood is widely available. For something unique, try "fusion" food, combining the best flavors from Asian, European and Australian cuisine. Australian wines are renowned throughout the world.
Tipping
Australians do not depend on tips or gratuities for their income and tips are not expected for normal service, even in restaurants and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation is at your discretion.
What to Pack
Australian lifestyle is generally informal and the accepted norm is to dress for comfort. We recommend you pack lightweight, comfortable clothes and shoes, while a sun hat and sunscreen are essential. If you're visiting during winter, leave space for a jacket or sweater and if you're planning a special occasion a more formal outfit may be required.
Weather
Australia experiences temperate weather for most of the year but the climate can vary due to the size of our continent. The northern states typically experience warm weather much of the time, with the southern states experiencing cooler winters. Australia is also one of the driest continents on earth with an average annual rainfall of less than 600 millimeters. Like all countries in the southern hemisphere, Australia's seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere. December to February is summer; March to May is autumn; June to August is winter; and September to November is spring. (from australia.com)
The seasons are the opposite of those in the Northern Hemisphere-when it's summer in the north, it’s winter south of the equator (Australian winters are fairly mild, but a bit rainy). Our favorite months are October and April, though September-May is all right in most parts of the country. December and January are the hottest months, July and August the coldest (Melbourne and Sydney, in particular, can be rather cold and drizzly then). The Great Barrier Reef is best visited September-December, but it can also be seen May-August (it's a bit cooler then; cyclones can disrupt sightseeing plans January-April). Take a sweater, no matter when or where you're going. (from travelguard.com)
Events & Holidays
January 1 - New Year's Day
January 26 - Australia Day
February 9 - Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras
March 21 - Good Friday
March 24 - Easter Monday
April 25 - Anzac Day
June 9 - Queen's Birthday
October 5 - Labour Day
December 25 - Christmas Day
December 26 - Boxing Day
Please note: While we take every care to ensure that this information is correct at the time of posting, we urge you to check with the relevant authorities such as your Travel Agent or Tourism Australia for the latest information prior to departure.
NEW ZEALAND TRAVEL TIPS
New Zealand is arguably the most dramatic place on earth, with natural beauty difficult to believe. Many people are drawn to the Land of the Long White Cloud by her scenic splendor. The real New Zealand is much more than glistening peaks, serene lakes and boiling mud—it is a people, a culture, a way of life. The unique blend of Maori, Pacific Islander, Pakeha (European descendant) and other nationalities gives a heritage that is rich and varied. It is about the length of the Mississippi River and the width of California.
Passports
All visitors to New Zealand require a passport valid for at least three months after the planned date of departure. Check with your travel agent for visa requirements.
Visa Exemptions
You do not need a visa or permit to visit New Zealand if you are:
· A New Zealand citizen or Resident Permit holder
· An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
· An Australian resident with a current Australian resident return visa
· If you are a citizen of a country which has a visa waiver agreement with New Zealand
Currency
The unit of currency is the New Zealand Dollar.
Credit Cards & Traveler's Checks
All major credit cards may be used and NZD traveler’s checks are accepted at hotels, banks and some stores. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Goods and Services Tax
Goods and services tax (GST) is a tax on most goods and services in New Zealand, most imported goods, and certain imported services. GST is added to the price of taxable goods and services at a rate of 15%.
Electricity
The electricity current in New Zealand is 230–240 volts. Electrical appliances will require a round-pin, two-pronged plug adapter. Check your appliances to see if there is a 100–240v switch. If not, you will need a voltage converter. Universal outlets for 240 or 110v shavers are usually found in leading stores.
Departure & Airport Tax
A tax of NZ$25 must be paid at the airport when you leave New Zealand, unless you are leaving from Auckland airport. Please note that this tax is only included in your ticket price if you are departing from Auckland International Airport. Children under 12 years of age are exempt from the departure tax fee.
Driving in New Zealand
A current international driver’s license or a license of the country of origin is acceptable. Minimum age to rent a car is 21 years. Please remember to drive on the left hand side of the road.
Tipping
New Zealanders do not depend on tips or gratuities for their income and tips are not expected for normal service, even in restaurants and pubs. However, tipping in appreciation for extra-special service is at your discretion. Service charges are not normally added to hotel or restaurant bills.
What to Pack
Dress is informal and relaxed on most occasions. Smart casual clothes are acceptable at most restaurants and nightspots. Men are generally not expected to wear suits and ties, except in a few of the top formal bars and restaurants in major cities.
In summer a light jacket or sweater should be included in your luggage should the weather turn cooler or you visit the high country. You can expect some rain, so include a light waterproof jacket or coat. Pack warm winter clothing if visiting between May and September.
Climate
The North of New Zealand is sub-tropical. The South may be cooler—snow can be experienced in winter. If you are traveling in the mountains, be sure to pack layered clothing and a jacket.
Please note: While we take every care to ensure that this information is correct at the time of posting, we urge you to check with the relevant authorities such as your travel agent or Tourism New Zealand to obtain the latest information prior to departure.