Australia is comparable to the United States and the United Kingdom in certain respects. It may make you feel as though you’ve landed on a different planet in many ways. There are a few things that require some adjustment for foreigners in Australia, and if they’re not careful, they’ll make a few common mistakes on their first trip.
Avoiding the most common errors made by tourists in Australia is simple! It boils down to research and common sense. Keep reading to learn how to avoid the 10 most common mistakes made by first-time visitors to Australia.
10 Only Visiting Tourist Attractions
Australia, like any other nation, has countless sights to see beyond the most well-known. It is a mistake to travel to Australia and only visit the most popular tourist destinations. For instance, in addition to the renowned Bondi Beach, there are numerous other beautiful beaches in Australia, and these will not be crowded.
Do your research and incorporate off-the-beaten-path stops into your itinerary. Australia has many wonderful surprises for those who are willing to seek them out.
9 Failure To Take The Sun Seriously
One of the greatest errors a tourist can make in Australia is not taking the sun seriously. There is a reason they refer to it as a sunburned country! Australia’s sun is simply stronger than that of other countries. Sitting by the pool all day in the Mediterranean may result in a beautiful tan, whereas doing the same in Australia is likely to leave you red and blistered.
In Australia, skin cancer is a leading cause of death, and even though you’re unlikely to cause that much damage in a single visit, it’s still important to be aware. Follow the Australian rule of “slip, slop, slap” when applying sunscreen.
8. Attempting to accomplish too much in too little time
The fact that Australia is a vast country is something that most foreigners do not realize. In terms of landmass, it approaches the size of the United States, despite having a fraction of the population. Saying you want to see all of Australia in two weeks is equivalent to saying you want to see all of the United States in two weeks. Not going to occur!
Instead of rushing through the sites and attractions, it is preferable to take your time. Perhaps stick to the eastern coast, visiting Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, and explore other regions of Australia the next time.
7. Being Afraid Of Bugs, Crocodiles, And Snakes
Fear is the only thing that can prevent you from having a good time! If you believe the stereotypes about Australia, you might believe that you must be on guard for your life during your visit, lest you be devoured by a crocodile or a monstrous insect. Fear should not prevent you from having fun! It is simply not plausible.
While there are things that can kill you in Australia, just as there are in every other country, they are typically not lurking in the city centers!
6. Visiting a Zoo Instead of a Wildlife Park
If you are interested in seeing native animals in Australia, you should visit a wildlife park rather than a zoo. Wildlife parks are located on the outskirts of major cities and in rural areas. In these types of parks, kangaroos and emus are typically allowed to roam free rather than being confined in cages.
In addition to the kangaroos and koalas, don’t forget to check out the other Australian animals. Beware the burrowing wombat, swimming platypus, and porcupine-like echidna!
5. Not Brushing Up On Australian Slang
Many people believe that since Australia is an English-speaking country, they do not need to learn any new vocabulary before visiting. Nevertheless, depending on your destination in Australia, you may need to brush up on some Australian slang.
If you speak standard British or American English, locals will still understand you, but you may not understand them. If you understand words like “brekky” (breakfast) and “thongs,” it’s a bit simpler to understand what’s happening (flip-flops). There are numerous free websites online where you can learn some Australian slang. On YouTube, Margot Robbie teaches a crash course in Australian slang.
4. Underestimating the Cost of Everything
Tipping culture is one of the most significant cultural differences between Australia and the United States. In general, Australians do not tip because servers do not rely on gratuities to survive. Australia’s average wage is higher than that of the United States, resulting in a higher cost of living.
Generally, food, lodging, transportation, and entertainment will be more expensive than you anticipated in Australia. Also, remember to account for the difference in currency! However, you will not be expected to leave a tip at the conclusion of your meal.
3. Lacking respect for customs laws
Australia is a laid-back nation, except when it comes to protecting its ecosystem and wildlife. Then it becomes extremely rigid! Oz is notorious for its stringent customs laws and the severe penalties for violating them. Follow the rules at all times if you wish to avoid a great deal of trouble.
You will be informed of which items to declare at the airport before you deplane. This includes produce, food baskets, and anything made from straw or bark. Simply be truthful and declare everything, and you will avoid trouble!
2. Neglecting To Understand Indigenous Culture
Today, Australia is an extremely multicultural nation whose culture has been influenced by nations from all over the world. You’ll encounter many of these influences in Australia, but don’t forget to explore and learn about the culture of the Indigenous Australians, the first people to inhabit the continent.
Indigenous art can be found in art galleries and museums across the country, but there are also cultural centers in each city that specialize in educating the public about Indigenous culture.
1. Not Trying Traditional Australian Cuisine
In Australia, it is possible to obtain virtually any type of food. It would be a mistake, however, to visit Australia and not try some of its traditional dishes. Even if they’re not to your liking, it’s a necessary part of the experience to sample some uniquely Australian dishes.
Yes, this means you must try vegemite! It’s not as bad as it appears if you eat it with plenty of bread and butter. Also be sure to sample fairy bread, Tim Tams, barbecued snags, burgers with everything, lamingtons, and pavlova.
Topic: 10 Mistakes All Rookies Make Their First Time In Australia
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