queensland
Sunshine State
Information
Queensland covers the north east of the Australian continent with a coastline of over 7,000 km. It has the worlds largest reef eco system “The Great Barrier Reef” and is gateway to the Daintree Tropical Rainforest. The capital Brisbane and surrounding towns offer great surfing and beaches. Inland is dry arid outback with plenty of early history and interesting sights.
QUICK FACTS:
Currency: Australian Dollar
Language: English
Visa: ETA Tourist visa for up to three months for all except New Zealand Citizens
Power: 230 volts AC. Plug types l
Safety: As safe as any other western country except beware of the wildlife on the roads at dawn and dusk.
TRANSPORT:
Flights go to major cities and smaller outback areas.
Trains connect up and down the east coast and are great for scenery.
Buses are cheap for local transport but not super fast.
Car hire or purchase (depending on length of stay) is usually the best option for anyone spending time in the country. Often the only easy way to get to some places.
FESTIVALS:
New Years Day
Australia Day Jan 26
Easter March – April
Anzac Day 25 April
May Day
1770 Festival, celebrating the arrival of Captain Cook – May
Queens Birthday
Christmas
Planning
Queensland climate is sub-tropical, cooler in the south and hotter in the north. There are 2 distinct seasons, a rainy and humid summer (October to May) and relatively dry winter season (June to October).
Summer temperatures can vary between 18C and 30C in the main – but have on occasion been higher and lower.
The sea temperature is good for swimming all year round.
Packing:
Queensland is a casual state and only if going out to more upmarket places will you need to dress. Rain Jacket and Umbrella are recommended as is light cardigans for the mountains. Beachwear and casual shorts and tops are the norm.
BUDGET:
Accommodation:-
Dorm beds $20
Basic Double Beds with air cond $120
Mid range Double $150
Luxury $300+
Food:-
Cheap Eats $10
Basic Restaurant $20
Evening Meal $25 per dish and up
Transport:-
Train and Bus, one way local ticket average $4 Aud
Taxi, flagfall of 4.20, 2.70 per km
Car Hire from $18 per day
Fuel from $1.45 per litre
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