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When planning any holiday abroad there are many things that you need to consider but the absolute best information you are going to get will come from those with first had knowledge. There are certain things that you can know that will make your journey just that little bit more rewarding and enjoyable.
Travel is daunting at the best of times so pay special attention to the following:
TRANSLATIONS
While it would appear that Australians speak the same language as Americans there are certain discrepancies that you should probably be made aware of.
Sweater = Jumper
Flip Flops = Thongs
Thong = G String
Cotton Candy = Fairy Floss
Candy = Lollies
Bar = Pub
Check (as in write a check) = Cheque
French fries = Chips
Diaper = Nappy
Crib = Cot
Pacifier = Dummy
Fanny Pack = Bum Bag
Rooting = Cheering
Entrée = Appetizer
Appetizer = Entrée
SLANG
Australian = Aussie
New Zealander = Kiwi
Beer = Cold One, Stubby, Pot
Really! = Fairdinkum
Friend = Mate
Man = Bloke, Fella
It’ll be OK = She’ll be right
Great = You Beaut, You Beauty!
It should also be noted here that the word “fanny” does not refer to someone’s behind in Australia, it is actually the word used to describe a certain female private area. Also, the word “root” is a rather crude word for sex. You would be advised to remember this and save certain embarrassment!
IMPORTANT HOLIDAYS
January 1st – New Year’s Day
January 26th – Australia Day
April – Good Friday, Easter Sunday and Easter Monday are all observed
April 25th – Anzac Day
June – Queen’s Birthday Observed
December 25th – Christmas Day
December 26th – Boxing Day
It is also good to note that different states also observe many regional holidays such as show days, Labour Day, cup days and other such public observances.
WEATHER
Also realize when traveling to Australia that the seasons are reversed. The summer months are from December to February and the humidity is a lot higher than the USA, although it does depend on what part of Australia you are visiting. Typically the northern most areas are hotter and the further inland you go the hotter it can get.
Summer is extremely hot in some areas of Australia and travelers would be best advised to avoid it if at all possible. What usually happens is the humidity will increase and increase until it almost seems unbearable and then all will be relieved with a spectacular show of thunder, lightning and hail.
Areas in the southern part of Australia will see snow during the winter months, June through August, and can be quite cold. On the other hand the winter in the northern areas are quite peasant and nothing like you would experience in some very cold parts of the USA.
SHOPPING
While you will find that most tourist places are open seven days a week you should take note of the shopping hours. They are generally from around 8.30 am to 6.00pm. Some places may be open longer in high traffic areas but it is not the norm throughout the country to do so.
There are a few cities that have grocery stores open 24 hours but this is also not the normal way to do things. In most places grocery stores will open Monday through Friday all day and then do a half day on Saturday mornings and be closed on Sunday.
TIPPING
Tipping is a foreign concept in Australia. You will not be expected to pay gratuities in any way for any service.
Most of all, remember to have fun. Australians are very friendly people and love to learn about other people. Enjoy you stay and don’t forget to have a cold one!
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