General + Australia FAQs

Australia is made up of six states and two territories. Each state and territory has its own premier (like a Governor), parliament, flag and floral emblem. Australia became a federated nation after the union of the six colonies on January 1, 1901. Bound by one parliament, one constitution and one flag, Australia celebrated its Centenary of Federation in 2001.

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world covering 7,682,000 square kilometers. It's about the same size as the 48 mainland states of the USA and 50% larger than Europe. The Australian environment is unique. From unspoiled beaches, tropical rainforest, rugged mountain ranges and vast tracts of desert, Australia is a country of contrast. Home to an amazing 14 World Heritage listed wilderness areas, Australia's diversity is yours to enjoy.

ABSOLULTEY MATE! Tourism has thrived in Australia since the late 1980's and Australian's are proud of their country and love to show it off. After an increase in government spending on tourism, and in conjunction with the popularity of Paul Hogan's Crocodile Dundee we have become one of America's most desired getaways. Sure, when in populated areas like Sydney use due diligence and common sense because crime does occur. And when in secluded area's listen to your Aussie tour guide and pay attention to warning signs and you'll be alright. If the sign says 'Don't Swim -- Crocodiles Live Here', it's probably NOT a good idea to swim!

It takes quite a long time, but if you ask anyone who has done it before we'll bet they all say that it was well worth it and an experience of a lifetime! It takes between 13.5 to 14 hours to fly from Los Angeles to Sydney. The time variance is based on flight path and wind speeds/direction. If you are coming from the East Coast it takes an additional (apprx) 4-5 hours from Orlando or New York to get to Los Angeles. With this in mind as well as calculating your 2-3 hour layover in Los Angeles and airport travel time, you could say that from the East Coast it takes about 24 hours in total. Some folks decide to stay a day or two in Los Angeles on route to break up the trip.

It's really not too bad; we fly QANTAS and they are very good! On the USA to Australia direct flight every seat has its own TV personally controlled by you. One of the best ways to pass time is to watch some current movies, documentaries (normally about Australia) or play video games. The food is surprisingly good on these long flights and alcohol is complimentary. Before even arriving in Australia you can sample some great Australian wines and taste several good Aussie beers like Tooheys, Victoria Bitter, XXXX (pronounced 4X), Carlton and others.

You can change some money at the airport when you arrive. The exchange rate isn't always very good, but for small amounts of cash it doesn't make much difference. Credit cards generally have the best rate of exchange, followed by travelers' checks, and US cash is the worst.

Australia boasts over 7,000 beaches - more than any other nation. Sun, sand and surf are part of the Australian way of life. Australia's coastline is 36,735 km long and features some of the world's most spectacular beaches. For most of the 75% of Australians who live within an hour's drive of the coast, their local beach is like an extension of their backyard.

While you will not see one hopping down the main street of Sydney, we do guarantee that you will see a kangaroo. The kangaroo is unique to Australia and one of our most easily recognized mammals. There are more kangaroos in Australia now than when Australia was first settled. Estimates suggest around 40 million -- that's 2 kangaroos for every 1 Aussie. You can even come home with a photo of yourself petting a kangaroo at Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo or Wild World in Cairns. The kangaroos that you see in the wild are not tame enough to pet, but the ones in captivity are as friendly as your family pet.