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Travelling the Great Ocean Road

There is no time like now for checking out this magnificent section of Victoria’s coastline. The Great Ocean Road was added to Australia’s National Heritage list in 2011. Unfortunately, due to natural erosion by strong winds and rough seas, parts of the natural limestone stacks and archways have already crumbled away.

The Great Ocean Road was built by returned soldiers after World War I as a war memorial between 1919 and1936. Here is showcased some of our most spectacular coastline runs, extending through several national parks. Stretching from Torquay to Warrnambool, near Portland, the road is a popular route for tourists and there are some excellent walking tracks, making this trip perfect for hikers and campers.

If walking the rugged terrain of the coastline and camping in the national parks is your style then travel insurance is wise. Cheap travel insurance is available for those keen to budget via the simple pleasures of camping and hiking along the scenic walks. Alternatively, in places like Lorne, Apollo Bay and Port Campbell, accommodation is comfortable and readily available to suit every budget.

From its beginning in Anglesea to its end near the border of South Australia, The Great Ocean Road is not short on scenic towns, breathtaking ocean views and interesting places to stay. Geelong, Victoria’s second biggest city, is the gateway to the Great Ocean Road which begins just south of Geelong at Torquay.

Geelong is packed with things to do and see – if you need to get your bearings before hitting the road, so to speak. Botanical gardens, galleries and the National Wool Museum are a great start and there is also a swimming beach with several coastal walks for those keen to get moving.

Further down the road is Lorne. The Great Ocean Road just south of Lorne winds quite close to the coastline and is popularly regarded as the most spectacular part of the drive.

Apollo Bay is another key stopping point for travellers on the Great Ocean Road. Apollo Bay is located near the Otway Ranges, home to the Great Otway National Park, and many bushwalking tracks. The magnificent Erskine Falls can be found inside the park and are worth taking a look at. There are many surfing and swimming beaches and a large harbour and marina make this town a popular place to stop and explore.

Port Campbell, just minutes from the most recognisable landmark along the Great Ocean Road, The 12 Apostles, is also home to the London Arch, Loch Ard Gorge and The Grotto. It is vital to stop here for at least one night to explore the Port Campbell National Park and perhaps extend your stay for the Great Ocean Walk.

Near the very end of the Great Ocean Road you will find Portland, located in a large protected harbour. Portland was the site of Victoria’s first settlement in 1834 and has many impressive heritage buildings constructed out of bluestone that showcase its rich history. Often called an anglers’ paradise, Portland is a great place to unwind and go fishing.

If you are not already exhausted by the end of your Great Ocean Road-Trip then try the Great South West Walk in Portland. The Great South West Walk leads you to the Margaret Rose Cave, more brilliant ocean views at Discovery Bay and finally to see fur seals at Bridgewater Bay. There are 16 camping sites along the stretch and various options for the length of walk you might choose. A long walk with an overnight component is only for experienced hikers and everyone must check in before attempting this.

Portland accommodation is the soft alternative for those who like a relaxing comfort from which to launch into the sites of this peaceful maritime town, reflect on their journey and gather up the strength to get back home.

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5 Ways To See Sydney By Boat

When a city like Sydney is blessed with such an incredibly beautiful harbour (not to mention its rivers and beaches) you can bet your bottom dollar that one of the best possible ways to see it is to jump on a boat and set sail, me hearties! From Sydney Harbour cruises to kayaking adventures, there is certainly no shortage of ways to have fun on the water in beautiful Sydney. Here, we share five of the best ways to get your sea legs and get a different perspective on the Harbour City.

Kayak

The sheltered waters and secret beaches of the inner harbour of Sydney make it absolutely perfect for exploring by kayak. Why not combine exercise with a bit of sightseeing and rent yourself a kayak to access all those little nooks and crannies of the harbour that you’ve only ever seen from a distance?

Our pick for the best kayaking would have to be Point Piper, there’s a charming little stand where you can rent doubles or singles, them sail them over to untouched beaches near Vaucluse for unforgettable views of the Sydney Harbour Bride, Opera House and city.

Sail

If you ever get the opportunity to sail Sydney Harbour, do it! There are a scattering of local yacht clubs around the harbour, most of which offer rentals for experienced sailors or skippered options if you’re not too confident. It’s also a great opportunity to take a sailing lesson or two, and on a good summer day with the wind at the right speeds, there’s not much that compared to skippering your own boat around the glorious surrounds of Sydney Harbour.

Tall Ship

If you want a little touch of history, there are plenty of ways to experience it with one of Sydney’s tall ship cruises around the harbour. Choose from a themed ship (where all the crew wear pirate outfits) or a classier affair as you sail into the sunset enjoying cocktails and canapés and learning about the various aspects of Sydney’s past.

Fishing Adventure

If you’re more interested in what’s under the water in Sydney than what’s above it, a fishing adventure is the perfect way for you to enjoy your trip. There are several companies that can take you out on a chartered fishing boat, either to the deep sea to try your hand at some serious angling, or for a spot of harbour fishing to try and catch some dinner!

Jet Boat

While for some people, the idea of a holiday means rest, relaxation and taking time to smell the flowers, while for others, the only way to get the most out of their holiday is to travel at breakneck speeds and get their heart rate going. Luckily, Sydney caters to both types of holidaymaker, and if you fall into the latter group then jet boating is definitely for you. Strap yourself into a high-speed monster of a jet boat and try to keep your lunch in your tummy as you zip and zoom around the harbour at death-defying speeds.

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Making the Most of Your Holiday on the Water

There’s just something about the water. It’s both life giving and picturesque, the ultimate in relaxation as well as fun. Whether it’s a river, lagoon, lake or the ocean, humans have long been drawn to the water, first as a means of survival and then as a means of pleasure. Whether you’re a jet boat enthusiast or a sunbathing nut, holidays by the water simply can’t be beat.

In this article, we share a range of tips and ideas about how best to make the most of your holiday by the water. After all, we’re busier than ever before, so the little holiday time we get should be spent soaking up every last droplet of enjoyment.

Surfing

If the beach is more your thing, surfing is a great way to unwind and stay fit while you’re on holidays Whether you’re a seasoned wave rider or a complete novice, being out in the waves is an almost spiritual experience for a lot of people. If you’ve got a board, take it with you, and if not, you can always hire one at the beach where you’re staying. For those who want to try their hand at surfing for the first time, a holiday where you’ve got nothing to keep you from practicing is an ideal opportunity.

Motor Boats

If you’re a keen boater, you no doubt dream about being out on the water day in and day out at work. Whether you’re a fisherman or a wakeboard enthusiast, owning a boat (while a lot of hard work!) can bring unbridled joy for many years. Even if you don’t own a boat, hiring one for the duration of your holiday can be a great option. Make sure you apply for a boat license (a written test and certification which shouldn’t cost more than $100) and always adhere to the rules of the waterway.

Sailing

Sailing is one of the world’s favourite leisure activities, and for good reason. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of the wind and salt on your skin as you maneuver your sailboat across the water, and a holiday is a perfect time to indulge that feeling. If you want to learn to sail there are often several options to do so in popular holiday destinations, so why not take the opportunity to learn something new?

Waterskiing and Wakeboarding

If you want a little more adventure in your holiday experience, waterskiing or wakeboarding is a great way to get it. Wakeboards are like the marine equivalent of snowboards, and the sport involves being towed behind a powerboat just like waterskiing. Often wakeboard boats are specifically designed to be heavier at the back so as to create a big wake for the rider to ‘surf’. We think if you can manage to stay up on your first turn you’re doing just fine, never mind the wake!

Holidays by the water are incredibly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Make the most of your next holiday by the water and indulge in a few activities you couldn’t do at home.

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How to Survive Holidaying With Friends

Holidaying with friends can be great fun and can bring everyone closer together. It can also drive you further apart and even ruin the friendship. Sometimes problems arise because you both had different ideas on how you wanted to spend your holidays. You may have wanted to stay in those serviced apartments in Sydney, whilst they wanted to head north and stay in those luxury apartments in Brisbane. Regardless, travelling with friends can be tricky!

Below we shall provide some essential holiday tips that will help you and your friends survive holidaying together.

Tip 1: Share the Holiday Planning

Try and get everyone involved in the holiday planning process and have them responsible for something. You don’t want anyone to feel left out or adversely feel like they have to organise and do everything. Holidays are meant to be fun, so share the fun around!

Tip 2: Work Out Holiday Budgets

Before you go on holidays together, sit down and discuss your holiday budgets and how the bills are going to be split.  You want to know how much everyone can afford and what kinds of things they want to pay for on the holiday. Some of you may want to fly first class and stay in a really expensive hotel. Some of you, however, may not be able to afford to splurge out too much. You may feel all bills should be split equally, whilst others may feel you should pay only for what you use. These are things you all need to discuss together.

Sorting out holiday budgets and who’s paying for what can help avoid awkward money situations and arguments later on.

Tip 3: Travel in Small Groups

Don’t invite your 350 friends on Facebook to go on holidays with you! Try and keep the groups small and make sure everyone knows each other.

You reduce the chances of any potential conflicts, whether they are personality conflicts or conflicts of interest, by having a small group of close-nit friends. It also means the holiday can have a more relaxed feel to it.

Tip 4: Establish Some Ground Rules

If you and your friends are all sharing the same accommodation, make sure you all establish some ground rules.

When it comes to house chores, make sure everyone is contributing equally. You don’t want one friend stuck doing all the cleaning and cooking whilst everyone relaxes and has a great time.

If travelling with kids from two different families try and compromise on some general rules that apply to all the children, such as bed times and their contribution to doing any chores. It’s important to establish some sort consistency and common routine for the children whilst on holidays.

Tip 5: Be Practical When Compromising

Holidaying with friends is all about making compromises. You have got to compromise on who does what chores, what you want to all see and do and where to stay.

There are going to be times when your friends may want to see or do something that doesn’t really interest you. Rather than dismissing their idea, try and compromise. Offer to go with them and have everyone participate in the experience, but ask them to also do something that interests you.

It’s important that everyone gets to do and see something that they want to do whilst on holidays. So, take turns in choosing what to do and where to go.

Tip 6: Have Some Alone Time

Whilst it’s great holidaying with friends — sometimes you just need to have a break from them. It’s important that you all get some alone time to do your own thing. Maybe go and see something that you wanted to see that you didn’t get a chance to do before.

Having a break lets everyone get some breathing space and forget each others annoying little habits that grate on you after a while.

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Great Ways to Travel the World.

Wanting to head off on an overseas adventure but not sure where to go or how you want to get there? Planning your travel can often be as exciting as the traveling itself! Here are 4 popular and great ways to travel the world.

1. 1. Road Trip

If you want to travel and have complete flexibility over your destination and route, as well as those you travel with, then this can be an excellent option.

You will need to choose an area where driving is one of the convenient ways to get around, and where you won’t have to worry too much about parking or road traffic.

A simple Internet search for “road trip” however, will bring up some great and famous driving routes for you to take your pick from. Make sure you have decent travel and car insurance, and you’re set to go!

Using a rental car service instead of your own vehicle will mean you can have the option of a camper van or mobile home, meaning you can cut out the need to stay in motels overnight. You’ll also be able to cook your own meals – which could save you some money if your travel budget is tight.

1. 2. Trains.

It might not be the fastest method of traveling, but overland trains can be a relaxing way to see the countryside as well as an economical option for the budget conscious traveler.

Often you can get train travel discounts for seniors, students, or other special passes if you are planning to travel exclusively by rail. The Eurail passes in Europe are particularly popular and have a large variety of different options for different countries and lengths of time.

The only downside is that you will not usually have control over those you share your train journey with. This can either be a blessing – you might meet great fellow travelers and friendly locals, or a curse – you’ll find yourself stuck with noisy or obnoxious travelling companions.

1. 3. Air Travel.

There are now so many budget airline carriers flying frequently to popular destinations, that countries seem closer than ever!

Flight search engines such as kayak.com will bring up all available flights across many carriers – and often some flights can be as little as $30! Be sure to check for hidden taxes and costs, such as for check-in baggage.

Also be aware that many of the budget airlines operate from smaller airports that aren’t always as easily accessible, necessitating a stay overnight at a nearby hotel. If you do your research well however, you’ll be able to cover a lot of ground for very little money.

1. 4. Tour Groups.

These can be great for a number of reasons: the extra money you spend means you will have the benefit of tour guides who know the areas you are visiting, and who can take you to the great local restaurants and sights.

They will also take care of your accommodation, so you don’t have to wade through various hotel reviews; they can be a way to meet other like-minded travelers; and, should you run into any trouble, you’ll be around people who can help.

If you are the kind of person who enjoys routine and tends to stick to a schedule, then this is the option for you. Happy traveling!

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5 Steps to A Safer Holiday

When it comes to heading off on holidays, most people are concerned with having the most fun possible in the short amount of time they were able to get away for. Whether you like to spend your holidays taking jet boat rides around shallow rivers or luxuriating on secluded beaches, one thing is for certain: accidents, injuries and mishaps are sure to put a dampener on the fun you’re having, so check out our 5 steps to making sure you have a safe—and fabulous—holiday!

1. Be Prepared

Whenever you’re heading off on holidays, it’s important to insure you are prepared should you become ill or injured. If you’re headed somewhere remote, it’s always a good idea to bring an emergency first aid kit, so that should you injure yourself you’ll be able to handle the situation—or at least improve your condition until you can make it to a doctor! Antiseptic cream, an emergency supply of antibiotics and bandages are all good ideas.

1. Do Your Research

Find out what risks are involved with the place you’re visiting. If you’re off to the Amazon then obviously bugs and waterborne diseases are going to be a priority, whereas other areas could mean other risks—for example, icy terrain where you could slip, hot regions where dehydration could be an issue, and countries where extra vaccinations or immunizations might be necessary. Doing your research will insure you’re protected as much as you can be.

1. Use Common Sense

Most accidents that happen on holiday come about because people have momentary lapses in judgment when they’re abroad. Whether it’s a case of too many cocktails by the pool or an inflated sense of your own athletic ability on the ski-slopes, not using your head often causes you to…well, fall on it! Make sure that you properly assess the risks involved while you’re away in unfamiliar territory, because you’re even more vulnerable when you’re away from home.

1. Keep Abreast of Political Situations

Another safety risk when travelling in foreign countries is the potential of becoming caught up in civil unrest or political situations. Countries with more unstable political situations (or even countries with stable ones) can sometimes see issues which escalate into riots or violent outbreaks very quickly. As such, make sure you keep checking traveller’s information sites to avoid any trouble.

1. Protect Yourself With Travel Insurance!

Before you head off anywhere, the best way to protect yourself is to make sure that you have a good travel insurance policy. While a travel insurance policy might not stop the accidents or mishaps from happening in the first place, it can really minimize the amount of angst these mishaps cause. Making sure that you won’t suffer financially from an accident or injury is one of the best ways to protect yourself on holiday, and travel insurance is something that nobody should leave home without.

Everyone wants a holiday to remember, but in order to remember it for all the right reasons, make sure you travel safe!

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Top 5 Kuala Lumpur Attractions

While staying at one of the many available Malaysia hotels, you will probably end up in the capital, Kuala Lumpur. This eminently modern and clean city represents everything that Asia is today: high tech and modern but also ancient and tied to millennial traditions. Our top 5 Kuala Lumpur attractions represent that mix of old and new so particular to Asian cities.

5. Sri Maha Sakthi Mhambigai Amman Temple

Yes, that’s a very long name, but Indians love long names. This 100-year-old temple is right next to an ultra-modern megamall in the middle of Kuala Lumpur. This makes for an interesting contrast, especially at night, when the temple is beautifully illuminated. Come for the Indian and Buddhist festivals (the temple serves for both) or simply for the beautiful statues guarding the entrance of the temple. Reflect on the meditating Buddha at the foot of the Bodhi tree or revel in the temple’s architecture.

4. Batu Caves

The Batu Caves are another Hindu religious site, this one dug in the heart of the mountains to the north of Kuala Lumpur. To access the caves and their treasure, you need to walk up 272 (exactly) steps, accompanied by quite bold monkeys. An impressive golden statue announces the entrance. If you’re into crowds, you should come during the annual festival of Thaipusam, when thousands and thousands of Hindus come and celebrate at the foot of the caves.

3. Chinatown Central Market

Malaysia is a unique mix of Chinese, Indian and Muslim cultures and the Chinatown in Kuala Lumpur is probably among the most interesting in the world.  The Central Market, once a temporary market housing food and produce, has now become a permanent structure with some interesting merchandise that changes with the seasons and the religious festivals. During the quiet times, the market showcases local art and culture through exhibitions. A must for tourists looking for the best souvenirs!

4. Kuala Lumpur Bird Park

This place is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers in general. If you spend enough time in this 20-hectare modern park, you might see many of the 200 species of birds present, whether loose in the park or in one of the many specialized aviaries (there are around 3,000 individual birds in total). The kids will particularly enjoy the parrot aviary!

1. 1. Petronas Towers

The Petronas Towers are usually the reason why people want to go to Kuala Lumpur. Even though they’re not the tallest skyscrapers anymore (they were beaten in 2004 by Taipei’s 101), they are still the highest twin towers in the world. Catch a concert at the famous Dewan Filharmonik concert hall or snatch some pictures of the city from the Sky Bridge, hanging between the two towers.

Of course, whenever traveling abroad, protect yourself with good travel insurance. Malaysia is a fascinating country with lots of cultures and contrasts, and Kuala Lumpur is probably one of the most interesting cities in the world to visit. Have we left out any of your favourite Kuala Lumpur sights? Let us know in the comments!

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5 Great Beach Breaks in Queensland

When you think of Queensland, chances are that one of the first images that springs to mind is that of a quiet, gorgeous beach with great surf and sunny weather. There’s a good reason for this—Queensland is positively lousy with some of the greatest beaches and patches of surf in the country, and it’s for this reason that thousands of local and international tourists alike head to the Sunshine State for their holidays each year. We’ve put together a list of the top five beach breaks in Queensland, so that you can start planning your holiday, booking those day tours and dreaming of the tan you’re going to have when you return.

The Sunshine Coast

Just a few hours’ drive north of Brisbane but a whole world away when it comes to the pace of life, the Sunshine Coast is blessed with some of the best surf in the country and the locals certainly aren’t afraid to get involved. Not only are there some great surf beaches around—there are some truly world-class surfers, too, which means that dozens of quaint little surf communities have sprung up around the coast, making it a very chilled out locations for a holiday.

Frasier Island

Off the coast of Hervey Bay is the spectacular nature reserve that is Frasier Island. You may think you’ve seen white sand and clear waters before, but unless you’ve visited the island and the stunning Lake Mackenzie located within, you just don’t know what you’re missing. Frasier Island is home to Australia’s last ‘pure’ dingo colony, and it’s possible to get up-close and personal with the creatures—as well as a whole host of other flora and fauna as well—on a guided 4WD safari.

The Whitsundays

Looking as though they were invented purely for the purpose of appearing on a postcard, the Whitsunday Islands are so beautiful you almost need to pinch yourself to believe they’re real. Turquoise waters, coral reefs, luxurious resorts and of course, mind-bogglingly beautiful beaches means that you’re in for one sun and sand-filled holiday.

Gold Coast

They don’t call it the Gold Coast for nothing, and you won’t be disappointed when you arrive to find some of the cleanest, most golden sand you’ve ever clapped eyes on. Not only are the beaches aesthetically beautiful, they make for some great surfing as well, which is why we’d recommend booking your Gold Coast accommodation in iconic Surfer’s Paradise for at least a while. Whether you’re willing to try your hand at surfing or you just want to watch the bronzed pros show you how it’s done, a visit to the Gold Coast is a quintessential beach adventure.

Hibiscus Coast

The Hibiscus Coast. Roll that name around on your tongue for a while and think of the exotic and tropical images it conjures up! North of Mackay, the stunning stretch of coastline is an oasis for the traveller looking for a bit of respite from crowded beaches. Tranquil and beautiful, the Hibiscus Coast is one Queensland beach destination you won’t ever want to leave.

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THE MOST GLAMOROUS MARINAS IN THE WORLD

As I am sure you are all aware, being a mega, ultra or super-yacht owner can be quite a trial. As well as having to pick out the type and colour of craft you wish to possess, you then have to find somewhere to stick it. One of the great things about being a boat owner is the ability to sail and dock anywhere on earth, but sometimes parking your boat can cost as much as the boat itself. But where are the most exclusive, swanky, downright showbiz marinas on the planet? Here are a few choice selections…

YAS MARINA, ABU DHABI

How do you fancy dropping anchor, sipping champagne from your deck while watching a Formula 1 race right on the doorstep? All this is on offer at the remarkable Yas Marina on the man-made Yas Island, featuring the F1 circuit that snakes around the entire area (so be warned crossing the road if you pop out for a pint of milk). Plus there are a wide array of exclusive stores, gourmet restaurants and towering skyscrapers in this jaw-droppingly posh locale. And if you tire of all this boat-based relaxation, the extraordinary architectural structure that is the Yas Hotel is right outside.

MIAMI BEACH, MIAMI, FLORIDA

Right on the doorstep of the celebrity hangout that is South Beach, this massive marina can easily hold 400 yachts, though even with this many, getting a berth isn’t easy and is terribly expensive. Though its huge size doesn’t compromise the quality on offer, with facilities including heated swimming pools, a 24-hour on call concierge service, digital satellite TV and valet parking (not for the boats presumably). And the famous Art Deco buildings of the area and the outrageously lively nightlife give Miami Beach and extra dash of glamour.

MARINA GRANDE, CAPRI

One of the most dramatic and remarkable landscapes on the planet, the Amalfi coast is known for its glamour and beauty and Capri is perhaps the most exclusive spot in the area. The marina is one of the most expensive and luxurious in the world and berths are incredibly hard to come by. Hollywood celebrities and European royalty rub shoulders on the Island every year and shop at the myriad of designer stores, which pepper the island including top names such as Prada, Gucci and Versace. Though if you’re looking to get away from it all, it’s difficult to keep a low profile on the crowded bustling island.

PORT HERCULE, MONACO

In a place synonymous with excess and wealth, the marina at Monaco is can certainly be considered a millionaire’s playground. So glamorous is the port that it became a location in the James Bond film Goldeneye, surely the highest compliment a luxury destination can get. And whether your drifting along the promenade watching the mega-rich come and go, losing it all in the casino or sitting on your deck as the Monaco Grand Prix passes by, you’ll be overwhelmed by the sheer decadence of it all. And if you ever start to feel a little seasick, the nearby Le Meridien hotel has its own private beach, so you can escape those pesky Paparazzi.

PORT LOUIS MARINA, GRENADA

Dubbed the ‘Spice Isle’, Grenada combines staggering natural beauty, a rich history and an exciting cultural side. This marina, sitting in a natural lagoon, features a whole host of treats for passing yachters including swimming pools, cable television, Wifi and an international airport just 15 minutes away, so you can jet off to an even more exclusive destination, should you be able to find one. But why would you need such distractions when the glorious beauty of the Grenadines is all around you and the rest of the Eastern Caribbean is waiting to be explored.

About the Author: Dale Shaw is a travel writer, currently working for Wish UK. If you’re looking for an exciting experience, then check the website out here to see if anything takes your fancy.

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Australia is an exciting country to explore whilst travelling, but it can also be extremely dangerous. Australia is known for having extremely dangerous flora and fauna, which can cause serious and even fatal injuries. But this danger is easily preventable by thorough preparation and using common sense.

Regardless of where you’re travelling to, read up on the local area and the dangers within that area. For example, if travelling to Uluru, find out about the local fauna and flora that may present a risk. Do not unnecessarily risk your life by being unprepared.

When investigating your travel destination, take note of the safety recommendations for the area. Also, learn how to respond to potentially life threatening situations. For example, if you are bushwalking as part of some Great Ocean Road tours, learn about various spiders that inhabit the area and how to respond if bitten. That way, if the worst-case scenario arises and you, or you travelling companions are bitten, you know how to respond in this emergency situation. This preparation may save your or your travelling companion’s life.

You should also take note of the weather conditions expected for when you’re travelling. Whilst you may feel comfortable doing some Melbourne tours for example, areas such as Melbourne are renowned for their extreme weather, so be prepared.

Avoid the danger presented by Australia by being prepared and following these 4 tips:

1. Plan your journey.

Do not leave things to the last minute. Australia is a large country and there can be hundreds of kilometres between towns. As such, be aware that there can be a great distance between accommodation and fuel stations.  Know where you’re stops will be, and if driving, watch the petrol tank.

You should also be aware of the local culture. Whilst hitchhiking is commonplace in some countries, it is not in Australia. The great distance between towns means that hitch hiking it is generally advised against.

When you have thoroughly planed your journey, let people know where you’ll be and when. That way, if something happens, people are aware of your intentions and are more likely to be able to find you.

2. Take plenty of water.

Australia’s climate can be brutal, especially in summer. Ensure you pack enough water for your journey for each traveller. Temperatures can rise above 45 degrees Celsius, so it is very important to stay hydrated.

Also, if driving, pack water for your car if it breaks down. Having plenty of drinking water can mean the difference between surviving and perishing if your car breaks down in the outback.

3. Practice safe travelling.

Be cautious when in Australia. Use common sense and do not take unnecessary risks. For example, do not swim at unpatrolled beaches. Australia’s coast can be deadly, especially for those not used to the conditions. Practice safe travelling by being safe and only swimming in patrolled areas.

4. Pack the travel essentials.

Ensure you pack the travelling essentials, such as proper footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. Also be prepared and pack a first aid kit.

Whilst Australia does present dangers, these dangers can be largely avoided by thorough preparation and employing common sense. As such, many travellers traverse Australia without incident. Do not let these dangers put you off experiencing the sheer beauty of Australia.

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