What we Learned from our Trip Down Under

What we learned on our vacation down under…

We all know that Australians are called Aussies and New Zealanders are called Kiwis.  But, here are few more things we learned.

• Australians are renowned for their relaxed, amiable, and easygoing nature. They relish engaging in conversations, often striking up chats with strangers on trains or even stopping pedestrians for a friendly exchange or to provide directions if they perceive you're lost. We frequently found ourselves being approached by friendly locals during our travels.

• Australians are celebrated for their politeness and consideration. They're quick to hold doors open and will readily step aside if you're in their path. As a guest, it's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and reciprocate these gestures by holding doors or elevators when appropriate.

• In general, Australians aren't heavily invested in politics and typically refrain from active participation in political matters.

• While English is the primary language spoken in Australia, the country is renowned for its unique slang vocabulary, unlike any other. When visiting Australia, it's essential to pay close attention during conversations with Aussies. They often abbreviate words, and add letter O or Y at the end and some of their words (like thong, swimmers and tea mean completely different things from what you expect). They employ colorful slang expressions, and delight in using rhyming slang.

• Australia is massive! It is the 6th largest country in the world so it’s not a place you can go and see during one trip.  You may think you could hop on a quick flight from one side of the country to the other, but the reality is that a flight from Brisbane to Perth will take over five hours. Traveling from Sydney to Cairns took three hours by air. So it's wise to select one or two destinations to visit and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Then, plan another trip!!

• Yes, they drive on the left side of the road, but did you know they also walk on the left side. Whenever walking on sidewalks, trails, or going up steps walk to the left.

• When ordering from a menu in a restaurant what we would call an appetizer is known as an entree. Under the title Main Course you will find what Americans call Entrees.

• Generally, you will not find alcohol in any Australian supermarket. Liquor of any kind is not sold anywhere but at liquor stores or bottle O’s, specialized stores to get your spirits of choice. These places close earlier than most supermarkets, at around 8 p.m. Plus, they always check your ID.
  

• Using the restroom? There are two buttons on the toilet when you flush. The two buttons are used respectively for number 1 or 2. Don’t make the same mistake I did for the first day or two, pushing both down at the same time and wasting water. Only press whichever one is needed.
  

• In Australia, you have to be sure to turn on (or off) the switch by your plug-in. Nothing is worse than plugging in all your devices, to charge overnight, only to find them all dead the next morning because you didn’t flick a switch! Great that it saves energy but terrible if you are a clueless tourist and didn’t turn on the switch!

• Fast Food Giants go by different Names. The logo looks just like Burger King but the name says Hungry Jack’s and inside they are serving Whoppers.  Apparently the Burger King name was already in use in Australia when Burger King expanded so the franchise owner, Jack Cowin, chose the name Hungry Jack’s.

• McDonald’s also goes by another name in Australia. It’s been affectionately referred to as Macca’s for so long that McDonald’s has changed the signage of a few restaurants and advertises with the nickname on TV.

• You do not need to tip. Australia’s minimum wage is higher than in many countries. (As of 2024, the national minimum wage is $23.23 per hour.) As a result, tipping isn’t customary in Australia, as all service charges are already factored into the cost of your meal.  On Sundays you may actually pay an extra charge for a meal because employees are paid 175% of their minimum hourly rate.
  

• Any moment is perfect for a beer Down Under! Australians have a deep affection for their brews. According to the World Health Organization, Australia ranks third in global alcohol consumption per capita annually. With excellent breweries in every city and picturesque wineries scattered across the countryside, it's no surprise that this is a beloved pastime among Aussies. It's customary to toast with your drinking companion, exclaiming "Cheers!" before indulging in that first sip.

• Sydney’s beaches are amazing! Although, be careful there can be quite strong currents.  Swim with beaches that have lifeguards and swim between the flags.  This is the safest area to swim.  Australia does have sharks in it waters.  So, please make sure you swim between the flags, where you are much less likely to come face-to-face with one. The flags are also put in place to protect you from dangerous swells. If you choose to go into the water, be sure to never swim alone, and as long as you don’t stray past those flags, you’ll be safe to enjoy those beautiful waters.

• Speaking of beaches, those helicopters and small planes you see flying over  the beach every five or so minutes are watching for sharks.

• The Australian sun packs a punch, so it's crucial to protect yourself with sunscreen, even if you typically don't bother. Australia boasts some of the highest UV radiation levels globally,. Neglecting sun safety could leave you as crispy as a sausage on a barbie (that’s a barbecue). Don’t be fooled; even if looks like a dark and gloomy day, the UV is still shining down through the clouds. So, wear sunscreen at all times, just to be safe.

• Getting around Sydney on foot is a breeze, thanks to its extensive network of walking paths. You can navigate the city easily without needing a car, except for day trips. Sydney offers various transportation options, including ferries, buses, and trains, for those unable to walk or for longer distances. Utilizing public transit is cost-effective, with a cap on transportation expenses ensuring affordability.

• Public transportation in Sydney operates punctually. If a ferry is scheduled to depart at 11:05, it's advisable to arrive by 11:00 to ensure you don't miss it. Upon arrival, passengers disembark swiftly, and the ferry is reloaded and ready to depart within minutes.  The first time we tried to catch a ferry we were not paying attention and were talking while the ferry departed!

• If you are alone in a taxi, you can just sit in the front with the driver and have a chat. There is no rule or expectation that you have to sit at the back.

• Road rules are strictly obeyed. Unlike in other countries where people disregard road rules, if you get caught even holding a phone while driving in Australia you go to jail.  You will find traffic police and speed cameras literally everywhere you look so you always have to be at your best behavior. If you are not wearing your seat belt you will be fined approximately $,1000, even if you are the passenger! Their emergency number is 000 and not 911 just in case you encounter any problem.

• Australians are laid-back people, which is true; however, if you try to bring certain things into the country that are prohibited, then border control will stop you. Forbidden things include fruits (including dried fruit), vegetables, meat, eggs, plants, seeds and nuts, feathers, wild plants, rice, skins, drugs – if it’s medication, it must be declared by your doctor in writing. Make sure to check with the Australian Border Force website if you’re not sure you can bring a particular item.

• Australia is home to two Indigenous populations, the Torres Strait Islander peoples and the Australian Aboriginal peoples. Together, they make up 50,000 years of heritage, according to Evolve Communities. And their heritage, culture, and history shape a lot of Australia today. Australians today show great respect towards the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people; after all, they are the traditional owners of the land you are walking around on. These respects are also paid verbally before certain ceremonies, meetings and events. Just always remain respectful of all people and their cultures.
  

• The Great Barrier Reef is Amazing! In 2016, the Great Barrier Reef, Australia's most iconic attraction, garnered attention amid reports declaring it "dead" due to coral bleaching incidents. While climate change, cyclones, and pollution have undoubtedly impacted the reef, it remains more resilient than commonly believed. Despite evidence of bleaching events underwater, vibrant corals bustling with life are still prevalent, showcasing the reef's enduring vitality. You will see the most colorful corals abundant with life!