Traveling to Australia is a huge deal as there are so many wonderful things to see and places to visit. For those who are planning a trip to Australia, the best thing to do is to plan now for what you want to see and visit, that way you never miss out on anything, and you are sure to enjoy your trip to the area. Continue reading
Within New South Wales, Australia, there are several towns in the area that are great for visiting and learning more about. Hay is located in the southern region of New South Wales and is considered the agricultural center of the area for most of those who live here. Hay is also an important transportation center as it is between Sydney and Adelaide. The town is situated on the riverbank of the Murrumbidgee River, which was an important aspect for the city several centuries ago. Continue reading
The Reserve Bank has recently released data that has revealed Australians are steering away from credit cards, as many people ditched the plastic in May.
However, is the dip in credit card customers due to Australians becoming smarter about credit cards, or are we just lacking confidence and trying to steer clear of debt problems? Either way, it’s good news, as household debt has reached its highest level since 1998.
However, while there has been a fall in the amount of credit cards taken out, it seems as though credit card usage is still on the rise. There are approximately 15.45 million credit cards still being used in Australia alone, and the figure has grown by 0.77% in the past year.
However, while credit cards are still in use, it appears we’re all quickly paying them off. In May 2014, the country made 166.3 million purchases – which is worth $22.9 billion in credit card charges; however, this is in comparison to 160.92 million purchases that were worth $22.5 billion in the previous year.
It therefore appears that many of us may be learning from the Australian debt binge of the noughties, which many of us were party to. However, many people believe that the new statistics simply prove that consumers lack confidence in taking out a credit card, especially as many Australians have not long found employment, or are still struggling to find a job.
Craig James, the CommSec economist, recently commented: “While businesses are borrowing, investing and employing again, consumers are reluctant to take on debt. This is no more apparent than in the credit card figures released each month by the Reserve Bank”.
According to a new report by Homeloans, many Australians are expected to spend this year’s tax refund paying down their mortgage or credit card, demonstrating that residents are becoming more financially responsible by trying to help clear debts whenever possible
The survey found that out of the 64% of people that expect to receive a tax refund from the 2013/14 financial year, 21% plan to cut the cost of their mortgage, whilst 33% plan to pay off their credit card debt. The research suggests that Australians view slashing debt as a primary concern, whilst holidays and shopping trips are only secondary considerations.
It’s not just Australians that are becoming more conscious of how damaging credit cards can be, as more Americans are now wary of taking out a credit card.
The US was undoubtedly one of the hardest hit countries during the recession, suffering significant employment problems and an ailing economy. However, the Washington Post has recently reported that 29% of credit card holders have paid off their balances in the fourth quarter of 2013 – which is the highest figure on record since the recession.
While it is music to our ears that there has been a reduction in credit card accounts, more action must be taken to warn people of the dangers of only paying the minimum amount on existing credit cards – as this indicated that a person is not really in control of their finances.
If you have ever thought about moving abroad to Australia for a new future, the job market is bright. There are so many opportunities for hard working individuals in the country, and the economy is very strong at this time. No matter what your skillset, there are a number of industries that are looking for bright individuals. One important thing to think about, however, is what your strengths and weaknesses are.
There are many important factors that people need to take into consideration whenever they are making any plans for the future. Sometimes, what seems like a small, arbitrary decision, such as choosing the construction job in lieu of the office cleaning one can have a rippling effect that influences your actions as well as those folks you deal with every day. The locals and people in charge want to be sure that any persons they intend to hire for their jobs will be reliable, dependable and conscientious.
As economies begin to bounce back and market shares start to stabilize the jobs will begin to return. It may be possible to speed this process along by opening your mind up to specialty areas. For instance, a farming family could turn part of what they sell into preserved foods that will last longer and bring a better price. Since they will be preserving some of their crops for personal consumption anyhow, it makes sense to perform a little more work for a better income. However, simple changes like these won’t help a family prepare for the future. This is because many of the new jobs that are available require high tech skills.
The tech market is another great opportunity down under. Australia is a first world country after all, and tech jobs are in very high demand. Web designers, programmers, and graphic artists are in more high demand than ever. Ever since the boom in personal and home computers in the early nineteen eighties people have been trying to find new and novel ways to put them to use.
This progress was slow at first because there weren’t enough skilled people to operate the various electronics. Plus, installation and repair technicians were very difficult to find and often expensive to hire. However, anyone can learn these skills if they dedicate enough time to learn about the equipment. As modern electronics evolve they become much easier to use and even more reliable in their purpose. This dependability leaves the more important tasks of networking and communications for the workers to handle.
Working on computer networks takes several different skills. For example, you may be required to string new wires to extend the signal or replace existing ones in order to improve the network’s reliability. This usually requires the need for splicing the into an existing line or adding a network switch to increase the carrier signal and the distance the signal can travel. Since Austalia is such a large country with a spread out population, this is very important. This is especially true as population centers creep slowly towards the west coast.
Another thing to think about is that Australia has computer problems just like anywhere else, and as the population becomes more technologically savvy, techs are in high demand to deal with viruses, crashes, and other malfunctions.
Whatever industry you would like to work in, there are ample opportunities in Australia, especially in the technical field. Many of my friends are turning towards tech jobs in the country, and are even starting their own self-employed businesses as web designers and graphic artists.
Anyone who has visited Australia knows; stuff gets crazy in the night life. Australians really know how to party, and they’ll literally go all night long. A large part of the Australian culture, at least for young adults, is the attire. They have a much different style than others are used to, but it works well, and they look good.
We are going to run over several fashion tips that will help you get ready for the club when you’re going to go out in Australia. Since we are mostly made up of guys here, we’re going to gear this article specifically for guys!
First, let’s talk about deep v-necks. If you don’t have some, get some. They are extremely trendy in Australia at the moment. These can be paired well with slim fitting jeans, a few necklaces, and other accessories. You want the v-necks to fit well, but you don’t want them to be skin tight. looser off the arms looks great while not too baggy in the core. These will keep you cool in the epic night clubs where it can get extremely hot.
Slim fitting pants are the best option to be paired with your deep v. However these can get very hot. Shorts are another great option. If you decide to go the shorts route, keep them short. Not only because it’s hot outside and in the club, but that’s what’s trendy in Australia at the moment. Shorts should go about mid-thigh. Try out some neon colors as well, have fun with it. After all, that’s what the Australian culture is about, having fun. This is very much expressed in their fashion.
Make up is up next. Makeup for guys? You bet! You don’t have to go crazy, but a little bit of eye liner, mascara or eye shadow can go a long way. Don’t be afraid. Trust us.
Let’s talk accessories. A few necklaces is fine. try leather or fabric necklaces as opposed to metal chains. Keep it to two or three at the most. When it comes to bracelets, you can go a little overboard. feel free to throw five or six of them on as long as they don’t clash too hard. Piercings are big in Australia, so feel free to throw a lip ring or nose ring in. However, it’s important to keep it silver. Colored rings look tacky, and gold doesn’t go with anything. Silver is modern, and it looks good with everything.
When it comes to shoes, Chuck Taylor’s are always a good call. If it’s too hot out, or if you don’t have any, you can opt out for a slick pair of flip flops. If you chose to wear pants out, I insist on Chuck Taylor’s. If you don’t have any, go with a nice pair of leather shoes. However, you’re going to want to keep them a light brown.
I really hoped this helps you guys. Remember, going out in Australia is all about the fun, don’t worry about going too big, there is no such thing. Have your outfit reflect your personality. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave us a comment below! Thanks for reading!
It’s no surprise that Australia is a vast country. It’s pretty large, but more than that, a large portion of the country is untouched, specifically the central part of the continent. For this reason, telecommunications across the country are sparse. They simply haven’t had the chance to lay significant telecommunication lines throughout Australia. Sure, you can call from one side of Australia and reach the other side, but it’s usually expensive, and the signal isn’t always great.
For this reason, there has been a flux in ham radios in the recent years. It’s cheap, it’s easy, and people can use them to communicate to people all over Australia and all over the world.
Ham radios operate on frequency and they bounce signals off of towers to relay signals and communication between the radios, so you can essentially talk to anyone in the world as long as they have a ham radio and they are using the same frequency as you are.
Since the majority of central Australia is untouched, it’s difficult to communicate with people when you are in the outback. There is rarely a moment where you will have a cell phone signal, you most likely wont find wifi, so sometimes the only method of communication is ham radios. They allow you to pick up a signal from anywhere and communicate with others around you.
This is essential if you are going to be big game hunting, or even if you aren’t, you’ll still need a way to communicate with the outside world in case of an emergency. And when you are in the Australian outback, you are very likely to run into an emergency!
Also, Australia is just know to have all sorts of creepy critters and large unknown animals. It’s important that if you have children, they have a way to communicate with you while they are out playing with their friends. They are likely to stumble across something unsavory during their mini expeditions, so it’s important to have a good, established communication system with them. As cell phones aren’t always reliable, it’s a great idea to have walkie talkies or ham radios with them and you so you’re able to communicate effectively.
Lastly, hunting is big in Australia. You will likely find yourself or a friend hunting in the Australian outback. If that is the case, I highly recommend you have ham radios. This will allow as a fail proof system incase they are in a position where they won’t be able to use cell phones or other means of modern communication. Additionally, things can turn dangerous very quickly in the outback. It is best to be prepared for anything that comes up.
I hope this helps! We truly believe in the tried and trusted ham radio system. We think if you give them a try then you will too. If you have any questions, concerns, or comments, please feel free to leave us a comment below! Happy hunting!
Australia is a country of never ending beauty, anybody who has visited can tell you that. We have diverse landscapes, desert to rain forests, the largest coastal reef on the planet, and the largest rock too! Our culture is just as diverse as well, pulling traditions and influence from different pockets of people all around the globe!
Neighbouring New Zealand is just as much of a gem in its own right too!
While New Zealand might be known for things like being the landscape for The Lord Of The Rings movie franchise, the best lamb in the world, and for producing the world’s safest trampoline, it is also a country full of natural beauty and caring people!
New Zealand is comprised of two main islands, commonly referred to as the North and South islands, which make up “the mainland”. The majority of the 4.45 million people who live on the islands inhabit these two islands, with many smaller islands forming 9 island groups around the country.
Auckland is the country’s largest city, with almost a quarter of the country’s people choosing to call this city home. It is located on the north end of the north island and is known for it’s great shopping, fantastic dining and beautiful scenery.
The city backs onto a beautiful rainforest that meets the black sand beaches along the stunning sea of the west coast, and gorgeous white sand beaches along the east coast!
Near the city you’ll find a total of 48 volcanoes which dot the skyline, the most famous of which being on the island of Rangitoto, a fabulous day trip only half an hour from downtown by ferry ride. This is a perfect spot to enjoy the day walking or taking in nature with friends and family.
Another stunning attraction of the North Island is the Bay of Plenty on the east side of the island. Named after the first impression of explorer Thomas Cook, who upon arrival, was greeted with the sight of endless plantations and agriculture, the Bay of Plenty features the last active marine volcano of the islands. Quite a sight to behold!
Moving to the South Island you are presented with a quite drastic change in scenery. The South Island is home to the city of Chirstchurch, where 340,000 people live. Within easy driving distance of the city you can find yourself exploring glacial valleys, enjoying world class skiing or snowboarding amongst the most beautiful mountains on earth, visit botanical gardens, take a wine tour through some of the most celebrated vineyards in the world, go surfing, see whales breaching and so much more! Very few places on earth boast the diversity that the South Island is able to present to you.
Of course, one of the most intriguing attractions this land has to offer is the traditions of the native Maori people. Settlers themselves, the Maori arrived in New Zealand over 1000 years ago and have formed their own culture, which can be respectfully viewed by booking a tour through one of the local touring agencies in Auckland. Enjoy a traditionally cooked meal from one of the ‘earth ovens’, watch their tribal dances and enjoy interacting with these fascinating people while you visit New Zealand!
There is so much to do and see in neighbouring New Zealand, it is a must do while you are down in Australia!
If you’re ready to get away on a great vacation filled with adventure, fun, and relaxation, then you should think about heading to Australia. It really is a great place to visit and, more than likely, it has plenty of things to do for everyone in your family that they will enjoy and remember for a lifetime. Among other things, Australia has great beaches, incredible nightlife, ancient ruins, hiking trails, music, culture, and much more.
To help you plan your trip or convince others that Australia is the place you should go, we have put together our top 5 things to do while you’re in Australia. While there is much more than what’s on this list, it will go a long way in getting you started on your adventure.
5) Take A Trip To Middle Earth
You can visit where they filmed the “The Lord Of The Rings” movies with the many tours of the locations that were used, like the Elf capital of Rivendell or Helm’s Deep. There are countless different tours that are offered to see the sights of Middle Earth. For the true lovers of “The Lord Of The Rings,” you can take a tour where the whole saga began as well. It’s something that children and adults alike will love and enjoy.
4) The Great Barrier Reef
If you go to Australia, it’s almost a requirement to experience The Great Barrier Reef. It’s the world’s largest coral reef system and is home to thousands of different underwater species. There are many adventures you can partake in to see the great barrier reef, from snorkeling tours and cruises to sailing trips. Be sure to visit the reef from different places though, as it can really look completely different from Cairns to Port Douglas.
3) Island Hop The Fiji Islands
You may have heard of the world famous Fiji Islands, but to experience it is a whole other thing. Other than the fact that they have world class beaches, the Mamanuca island chain has beautiful waterfalls, coral reefs to explore, and plenty of adventures to get in on. Honestly, you could spend an entire vacation just in the Fiji Islands and probably have the time of your life. From snorkeling, all inclusive beach resorts, cruises, shark feeding tours, and more, you can fill your days with plenty of leisure and fun.
2) Surf on Bondi Beach
There isn’t much more that screams Australia than being on the beach, looking tan and hanging ten. If you don’t know how to surf, that’s not a problem as you can take surf lessons from local surf pros who will show you the ropes and have you out there surfing up a storm in no time. If you are planning on heading to the beach on your Australian vacation, you may want to think about hitting the gym a few months in advance so you’ll fit right in and look amazing on the beach. Hire a personal trainer, start jogging in the mornings, or, if you really want to boost your results, you may want to look into the best rated crossfit shoes and the best rated testosterone boosters out today. They will help you fuel those heart pounding workouts so you can look your best on the beach.
1) Visit The Sydney Opera House
The iconic Sydney Opera House tops our list as the #1 place to visit while in Australia. While many have visited this famous place, you can be one of the few who actually gets to see it from behind the scenes. They offer guided tours where you can see all the backstage happenings and even the dressing rooms of the stars. They also have off-shore excursions and cruises that run along the opera house, giving plenty to do for everyone in the family.
Australia is known for its stunning wildlife, beautiful cities and friendly people. If you are not living in Australia, taking part in a marathon, or any running event for that matter is the perfect excuse for going to the Southern continent, spending a few days there, not to mention that running will help you keep healthy. As it is currently early July, I thought I would write down the three best running events in the Autumn that take part in Australia. That way you still have enough time to train, get your body and mind ready for the challenge in front of you.
My event of choice for September is probably the biggest even on the list, the famous Sydney Running Festival. This one is a world renown marathon that makes experienced racers come from all around the world. It is probably up there in the three most famous marathons with the London Marathon and the New York Marathon. The good part about this race is that there are racers of different fitness levels, so you don’t have to be a pro in order to take part. You can see people every year who just walk the distance. One problem I see at many marathons is that the slower runners stand in front during the start, which prevents the quicker runners behind them to have the start that their fitness level would enable them to do. This is frowned upon in the running community, a take a position at the start that is appropriate for your fitness level. Another problem I see is that many people don’t use proper running gear. You can’t race in regular clothes, you need compression tights, footwear that fits the occasion, otherwise you run the risk of blisters. Running a marathon is hard enough as it is, don’t complicate matters by suffering preventable injuries. Get proper clothing if you are running a marathon.
The Melbourne Marathon takes place in October. Melbourne is one of the best cities to live in if you are an Australian jogger. The bank of the Yarra River is perfect for jogging, the parks around the city enable you to mix up the location of your running from time to time so that you don’t become bored by doing the same rounds over and over again. The track of the marathon starts out on the Batman Ave, and travels up to the St Kilda Esplanade, and finishes back in the city at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. If you have children, there is an event held just for them. This is a running event for little kids held in the Botanic Gardens of Melbourne. The kids can not only have fun racing, but see various plants from all around the world, staying healthy and learning at the same time. If you have a family, this is the event I recommend, as the large number of restaurants, cultural places and shops in Melbourne offer an excellent opportunity to spend time outside the race.
Another running event takes place in Melbourne a month after the marathon. This is the City2Sea run in November. This is a short event, the entire track is only 14 km long. It is a wilder track than the marathon, as it starts at the Arts Centre, and goes along the forests in St Kild before finishing at the seashore of the same place. If you are a fun loving person, this is the run for you. Many people run in costumes, raise a bit of money for charity, and just have a good time. This is the least competitive, but that doesn’t mean that elite runners are not welcome.
Australia is a wonderful continent with a rich wildlife and places with beautiful scenery. If you want to experience what the continent has to offer, the best places to visit are the national parks, where you can see animals in their natural habitat, and untouched forests. In this post I am going to take a look at the three most beautiful national parks of Australia.
One of the most famous shorelines of the continents is the Bay of Fires in Tasmania. This is the place you have to visit if you are into beach activities and water sports. The white sand of the beach is excellent for suntanning and enjoying yourself. If you are into hiking you must go along the Bay of Fires Lodge walk, where you are led by experienced guides who know all about the area and can teach you about the creatures that inhabit the area. Before you take part in the hike, make sure that you have the right equipment. You must have footwear that lets your feet ventilate, as you will sweat a lot in the hot weather of the Bay. If you left yours at home, it might be a good idea to get some from a website like this one. Another fun activity might be to kayak in one of the many rivers that run through the area. The Bay has plenty of protected sites with aboriginal relics, you must not disturb these sites. In fact the story about how the Bay got its name involves aboriginals. In 1773 Captain Tobias Furneaux saw little campfires all along the beach, hence the name. It turns out they were fires of aboriginals who have been inhabiting the area for long.
The Washpool National Park is famous for its rainforests. It is located in the wast Gondwana Rainforest in Australia. The park in 516 km North of Sydney, and it is a frequent destinations of birdwatchers from all around the world as it is the home to more than 140 species of rare birds, owls and scrub birds among others. However the forest has a rich fauna of protected animals, like the pouched frog or the spotted-tailed quoli, or several species of potoroo. The best way to see all these animals is to go along the 4 km long trail of the Washpool walk, which leads among giant red cedars and coachwood trees.
The Lake St. Calire National Park can be found 165 km Northwest of Hobart. It is famous for the 65 km long trail that joins the Cradle Mountain with the North of Carolina Bay, and runs on the Southern Shore of Lake St. Calire. The park is the home of the tasmanian devil, wallabies and the rare duck-billed polatypus. The trail offers a magnificent mixture of breathtaking scenery of waterfalls, snow-capped mountains and lakes that are filled with fresh mountain water.
Dating in Australia can be different than in the U.S. Australians approach dating how they approach life, with a laid-back attitude. Seldom will you see someone ask another person on a date in the street as they so often do in the States. Instead, Australians find other ways to meet people, make new friends and fall in love. Let’s look at some of the most common dating methods Australians use every day.
This is the most common way people interact and date in Australia. Group dating is particularly popular with teenagers and younger adults. However, even married adults go out in a group setting more often than a solitary engagement with the spouse. Friendship is important to Aussies, and meeting new people is easier and more fun with a few mates by your side.
A woman from Down Under is more likely to ask out a man than in other parts of the world. Not that they’re aggressive, just willing and able to approach a guy they like and initiate the first date. This can mean making all the plans and arrangements as well. Don’t be surprised if an Aussie girl picks the movie or restaurant and pays for it all without a second thought.
Australians are a proud and strong people. They enjoy paying their own way whether they’re in a group setting or with a spouse or significant other. Australians appreciate splitting the bill when on a romantic liaison. They feel it’s a sign of respect when everyone contributes.
“Unlike some countries Australians are a very proud people so do not be offended if your date refuses to let you pay the bill. That is the way they are, see it as a good thing!” – Kezia Noble Female Dating Expert
Australians embrace online and party dating. Many the Aussie has met their significant other through matchmaking websites while just as many have been successful in love through mutual friends. It’s common for Australians to invite a group of singles over for dinner or drinks just to see who might find their soul mate. Online dating websites are also a very popular way for Australians to not only meet a potential lover, but also make new friends as well.
Personal ads are very popular in Australia. Aussies have no problem describing their interests and attributes and explaining exactly what they’re looking for in a love interest. As the population of Australia continues to boom more and more Aussies are using this method to find and meet new people. Be sure that the website is safe and secure before posting personal information.
Those are some of the most common dating methods in Australia. Remember, this country is a laid-back and relaxed society, don’t approach dating aggressively. Rather than coming on too strong, take it slow and strike up a conversation about mutual interests. A simple request to grab a cup of coffee can be a very effective way to break the ice in Australia. As with anywhere, however, just be yourself and be confident, and you’ll find a date with an Aussie in no time
When arranging to go for a trip in Australia, there are certain things that you need to carry along with you, particularly if you are planning on undertaking some outdoor activities like bushwalking. Based on the areas in your tour plan you may require packing a number of footwear. Also ensure that that you leave enough room in your luggage bag(s) for any memento you might wish to carry home. Here are some of the most important things you may want to bring with when traveling to Australia:
As a citizen of any other country or state, you require a valid passport in order to enter Australia. In addition, you will need a visa card, which you can acquire online from the Australia’s Electronic Travel Authority. Carry the original passport and photocopies of the passport, together with a copy of the birth certificate. However, such documents may become very invaluable in the event you misplace your passport or it gets stolen.
It is highly advisable that you at least carry along two kinds of identification. In the event you purchase you buy travelers checks of medium to high amounts of cash, ensure that you list down the serial numbers and store it differently from the originals. Do not forget about your driver’s license in case you are thinking of renting a car while there.
This is one aspect that you need to pay attention to. This is because the types of clothes that you should carry along are dependent on various factors, including the weather condition in Australia. With that in mind, it is important that you know you will be exposed to strong sunlight regardless of where you go in Australia. Hence, it is advisable that you pack a broad-brimmed hat, long-sleeved shirts, and not to forget the sunglasses.
If you are considering hiking, then you have to carry along study, lace-up shoes. If you are planning on getting the Australian feel of nightlife in the major cities, you will want to pack evening wear together with dress shoes. This is due to the fact that most bars and clubs have dress codes, and you will be turned away by patrols if you went wearing flip-flops or sneakers. Lastly, if you are seeing yourself spending some time on the Australia’s beaches, which you should, pack a swimsuit. Take into account that certain religious sites in Australia demand modest attire.
To protect yourself from the intense Australian sun, carry along a sunscreen with a 30 or higher SPF. Ticks are also very common in the wilds, and should they bite you, a pair of tweezers will help you get rid of them. Toiletries are easily accessible in Australia, but carry along your own in case you are loyal to a brand. In case you use prescription glasses, pack a spare pair. But if you wear contact lenses, pack extra pairs and a lot of solutions.
Australian pharmacists can’t fill foreign prescriptions, thus if you are taking prescription medication, ensure that you pack enough for the duration that you will be there. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also advices international travelers to carry along a first-aid kit filled with over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-diarrhea medication. Also essential is the insect repellent, especially if you are going to spend time in the Australia’s Rea Centre.
If you are visiting Australia from the United States, it is important that you know the electricity there is 50 hertz, 240 volts AC. Therefore, in case you see yourself utilizing North American electronic appliances while there, you will require a plug adapter, so as to alter the prong shape to flat from round, and a voltage converter.
To capture all your memorable moments and favorite sights, you will need a digital camera together with extra batteries. Nevertheless, if you are considering spending most of your time walking around and exploring different sights and scenes, it is advisable that you stuff your effects in a backpack with an interior frame.
If you are planning on venturing into the beautiful Australian wilderness at all, it is recommended that you have some sort of pocket knife with you as well. There are many different pocket knives available that could get you out of potentially sticky situations. Carrying one is definitely a smart choice. Swiss army knives in particular are great choices.
Pack everything you believe you might require, and then eliminate half of it. This is because you are the one who will carry your pack, thus leave behind at least half of what you believe you require. You will only be limited to 2 pieces of checking baggage and a single carry-one bag on the plane. But, that is already an excess of what you can carry and tag along with comfortably. Huge, hard-sided suitcases are difficult to carry and much more difficult to store.