northern australia travel tips

travel tips

The scenery in Northern Australia is a dramatic variation from rocky escarpments and wetlands in the north and northwest, to vast deserts and sand in the Red Centre.

The People

The cultures of Northern Australia are predominately Christian. There are still many semi-traditional Aboriginal Australians living a lifestyle in Northern Australia that has changed little with time. These people have what is perhaps the world's oldest, still practiced religion. Traditional Aboriginal Australians still take part in secret ceremonies, and have beliefs that differ from those of modern societies. English is the official language, but the Aboriginal peoples of Northern Australia speak their own languages, and use English as a second, third, or even fourth language.

Safety

Don't leave money or valuables in a hotel room. Most hotels offer a safety deposit box service. You should ensure that you have adequate insurance coverage before leaving home.

Northern Australia can be very warm, and it is important to carry plenty of water while hiking or traveling, and to avoid overexertion.

In the wildlife areas:

Always remember that while some animals have become accustomed to the presence of people, they are still wild animals: Keep your distance! It is illegal to feed any animal, or deviate from designated roads for that closer photograph. Close all windows and zippers when you leave your room or tent and spray it with insect repellent. Australia has many dangerous and venomous creatures. Included amongst these are the saltwater crocodiles, which are prevalent in coastal regions, and can also be found in waters more than 300 kilometres inland. There are also box jellyfish, sharks, stonefish and an assortment of other nasties that inhabit the oceans and tidal rivers of Australia. We do not recommend that any person swim. Snakes are also common and Australia does contain some of the worlds most venomous snakes. We advise people to be aware of the dangers and not to touch or pick any animal up.

The best way to get the most out of your holiday is to take an active interest in everything going on around you, not just the number of species you can see in the shortest possible time. Ask all the questions you can think of, and take reference books on wildlife including books about the fascinating diversity of birds, insects and trees.

Health

No compulsory vaccinations are needed. It is advisable to buy travel insurance covering accidents, illness or hospitalization for the period of your stay.

Water

Tap water in the major towns is purified and perfectly safe to drink. In the more remote areas always boil it first, except if you're staying at a hotel where drinking water is perfectly safe.

Chemists / pharmacies

Most chemists in the major towns are open from 0830 hrs to 1730 hrs Monday to Friday and 0800 hrs to 1300 hrs on Saturdays. Modern medical facilities and pharmaceutical supplies are available in most towns.

Electricity

Power supply is 220/240 volt 50 cycle. Plugs are usually 10-amp 3 pin (Australian type)

Banks

Banking hours are from 0930 hrs to 1600 hrs on weekdays. Automated Teller Machines are available in most towns.

Currency

Currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). It is divided into 100 cents. Coins are issued in denominations of , 5c, 10c, 50c, $1 and $2, and bank notes in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. Foreign currency may be converted into AUD at banks and most hotels. A departure tax must be paid at any of the International Airports. Credit Cards, Cash and Traveler's Cheques are accepted by most restaurants, stores, hotels, camps, car rental firms. Most Travelers Cheques including American Express, Thomas Cook, Visa and MasterCard Traveler's Cheques are widely accepted.

Communications

Postal services are well organized in Australia. All major hotels have fax machines for the convenience of their guests. Telephone directories will list all the international dialing codes. Long-distance calls are metered on a time basis.

When to go

The ideal time to visit Northern Australia is during the Dry Season (May - September). The weather is 27-32 degrees Celsius, with very little, or no rain. While days are warm during this time of the year, nights can be cool (18 degrees Celsius). In the Red Centre the days are much cooler, with daytime temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius, and the nights regularly dropping below 0 degrees Celsius. The Wet season (November - March) is characterised by high humidity, high rainfall (up to 2 metres) and high temperatures (up to 45 degrees Celsius, depending on region). The Red Centre is hot and dry at this time of year.

Clothing

Lightweight casual clothes can be worn all year round, with a jacket or sweater for early dry season mornings and evenings. On tour keep clothes to a minimum, and mostly of neutral coloring - khakis, browns and greens. A sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent are a must. Wear walking shoes for sightseeing or hiking. Always drink plenty of water to minimise the risk of heat stroke and dehydration.

In the city areas some restaurants and clubs have dress codes.

Laundry

Most hotels will offer a laundry service. Most towns have launderettes.

Photography

Northern Australia offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife and photographic opportunities. Photo supplies including film, video cassettes and batteries are readily available. A telephoto lens of at least 200 mm is useful for wildlife photography, and an ultra violet filter and lens cap are strongly recommended. It is essential when taking photos of people that you ask for their permission, as some people have special customs regarding photography.

Driving

Driving is done on the left side of the road. Drivers require a valid license that must include a picture of the holder. Be careful not to leave your vehicle open and unattended.

Car rental companies are represented at the major airports, and in the cities and towns.

Transportation by Air

Darwin International Airport , Alice Springs International Airport and Broome International Airport are the main points of entry into Northern Australia. Domestic flights are available daily. There are landing strips throughout the country and air charter services are available in the major centres.

Customs Requirements

Visitors to Australia are subject to clearance through customs. All visitors must have a valid passport.