Gold Coast With Fraser Island

Q.1 What Time Of Year Is Best To Visit Australia?

Weather And Packing

Q:1 What's the best time to visit Australia in terms of weather?

The ideal times to visit Australia for good weather are often during September – November – the spring season and March-May – the fall season. However, the climate varies by region in Australia. Beach lovers will enjoy June –August – the winter season, while certain places have skiing chances from December - February - the summer season. 

Q:2 What do I need for my tour to Australia?

Pack lightweight clothing for summer and warm layers for winter. If you intend to visit the beaches, you must carry sunscreen, a hat, proper walking shoes, and swimwear. Check the weather for your specific destinations.

Q.3 How Are The Australia Visas Obtained?

Australian visas are obtained by applying online. We do Visa process applications for our guests. We ensure a seamless application process to avail of an Australia Tourist Visa for Indians. The processing time is around 25 to 40 days.

Here are the general steps:

• Determine the Visa Type:

Australian tourist visas are typically issued under the subclass 600 category. There are different streams within this category, such as Tourist stream, Sponsored Family stream, and Approved Destination Status stream. You should opt for the one that best matches the reason for your trip to Australia.

• Eligibility Check:

Verify your eligibility for the visa you plan to apply for before proceeding with your application. Eligibility criteria can include financial requirements, health and character checks, and the genuine temporary entrant requirement.

Gather Required Documents:

Gather all vital documents, which may include:

A valid passport that is active for at least six months beyond your planned stay.

Visa application form, which you can complete online on the official website.

Passport-sized photographs as per specific requirements.

Evidence of sufficient money to cover your stay in Australia, like bank statements, etc.

Travel itinerary, including flight and hotel bookings.

Proof of ties to India, like employment letters, property documents, or family connections.

Any other documents based on your specific visa stream

Apply Online:

Sign up for an Account on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.

Complete the Visitor visa application form and pay the fees.

Biometrics and Health Checks:

You may have to undertake biometrics– photos and fingerprints or/ and a medical test. Follow the steps outlined in your application.

Attend an Interview:

In some cases, you may have to appear for an interview at the closest embassy or consulate of Australia.

Wait for a Decision:

The processing time for visas may vary, so be patient till you receive an update on it.

Visa Grant:

You will receive a visa grant notification if your visa is granted. Verify that you have read and understand the conditions of your visa.

Travel to Australia:

You can go to Australia for the given period once you have obtained your visa.

Comply with Visa Conditions:

While in Australia, make sure to follow all of the terms of your visa, till the time you are in Australia. Always check the official Australian government website for the most up-to-date regulations and processes, or contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate. Visa laws and procedures are subject to change, therefore it is vital to have the latest information.

For more detailed information regarding this, please refer to our Visa portal: https://www.flamingotravels.co.in/visa

Q.4 What Airlines Fly In Australia?

- The flying time to Australia from India is approx. around 14 hours.

- The main cities of Australia are Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, Brisbane, and Perth.

- Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, VietJet, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Air India, Thai, and Srilankan Airlines flies from all major cities of India via their Hubs.

- Please refer to our ticketing portal https://portal.flamingotravels.co.in/flight

Q.5 What Are The Basic Details Of Australia?

Capital City             :         Canberra.

Major Cities                :          Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth

Population                :          20 million.

Languages               :          English.

Best time to Visit     :          Any time is a good time to Visit Australia.

Flying Time                :          13 Hrs

Time Difference       :                  4:30 Hrs Ahead India

Currency and Payments

Q. 1 What currency is used in Australia, and can I use credit cards?

The official currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Australia widely accepts credit and debit cards, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are also readily available.

Q.2 Should I exchange currency before arriving in Australia?

While it's a good idea to have some local currency on hand, you can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs upon arrival in Australia for competitive rates.

Describe In Brief The Major Historical Events Of Australia.

Culture & History in Australia

While Australian influences didn't emerge until the seventeenth century, indigenous Australians originally came to the mainland some 40,000 years ago. Due to the takeover of Southeast Asia by Australian armies, Dutch traders frequently went to Australia's northern coastlines. Australia's east drift was founded in 1770 by British explorer Captain James Cook, who gave it the name New South Wales while still a member of the British monarchy.

Campaigns along the Australian coastline inevitably led to more settlements in the following years, 1825 – Tasmania, 1836 - South Australia, 1851 - Victoria, and 1859 - Queensland.

The 1850s gold rush caused a population surge, and by the end of the century, the separate states had decided to join British territories. Australia officially became a united country on January 1, 1901. After the league, Australia's economy prospered because of its wealth in natural resources, but it was constrained by a labor shortage. A huge influx of Australians arrived in the country after WWII, during which Australia fought on several fronts. This marked the beginning of Australia's most recent wave of homeless people, which over the next 50 years also included Asians and Africans.

Australia's cutting-edge culture has been shaped by many factors, including the influence of the United States, migration, ancient legacy, and the environment. Given that a sizable section of people live along the drift, a strong coastal culture rules society. Indeed, even in true downtown areas, seeing locals dressed in beachwear about town isn't unusual. A typical Australian Saturday evening is spent around a barbecue with family or friends. Australians are incredibly active yet laid-back people and this is evident in their love of games. In many regions of the country, indigenous culture is still prevalent, and tourists may easily find tour packages to learn more about it. The native Aboriginal people are a contented race that continues to perform archaic social customs from their ancestors, such as dancing, music, handicrafts, and even hunting. Arnhem Land is a Northern Territory Aboriginal community.

Describe The Major Cities Of Australia.

SYDNEY: 

Sydney – Australia’s Olympic City. 

One of the most populous and capital cities – Sydney – is on the eastern coast of Australia. It is surrounded by Sydney Harbor extending till the Hawkesbury in the north, the Royal National Park to the south, and the Blue Mountains in the west. The Greater Sydney area has been home to Aboriginal Australians for at least 30,000 years, and there are many Aboriginal sculptures and cultural sites.

Places to Visit:

• Bondi Beach  
• Opera House
• Sydney Tower eye
• Harbour Cruise
• Sydney Zoo
• Blue Mountain and Featherdale Wildlife Park

MELBOURNE:

Melbourne- known as the most liveable city.

The capital of the Australian state of Victoria, Melbourne, has the second-highest population in the country (but it has the largest contiguous urban area). Its name mainly refers to the Greater Melbourne metropolitan region, which has a total area of 9,993 km2 (3,858 sq mi). The metropolis extends onto the Mornington Peninsula, a region of West Gippsland, and the hinterlands into the Yarra Valley, the Dandenong, and the Macedon Ranges. It also occupies a significant portion of Port Phillip Bay's northern and eastern shores. Aboriginal Victorians have lived in the Melbourne area for over 40,000 years, and it is an important meeting site for the local Kulin nation clans.

CAIRNS:

Is a city in Queensland, on the tropical northeast coast of Far North Queensland. Established in 1876, Cairns was given a name after the Sir William Wellington Cairns. He discovered gold in the Hodgkinson River. Chinese immigrants who settled in Cairns during the late 19th century helped the area's agriculture flourish. Black birding ships, whose crews delivered slaves and indentured laborers to the sugar plantations of Innisfail, also used Cairns as a port. Due to its tropical temperature, proximity to tropical rainforest, and access to the Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Cairns is a well-liked travel destination.

Places to Visit:

• KurandaVillage  
• Big Cat Green Island
• Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience 
• Hot air Ballooning
• Skydive

GOLD COAST:

A Surfers Paradise.

A coastal city in Queensland, Australia – the Gold Coast is around 66 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Brisbane. The city is a major tourist destination with a subtropical, sunny climate. It is globally renowned for its surfing beaches, theme parks, towering skyline, theme parks, and rainforests. Gold Coast is also renowned as a part of the entertainment industry with major film industry and television productions. Gold Coast was the host of the Commonwealth Games in 2018.

Places to Visit:

• DreamWorld
• MovieWorld 
• Hinterland
• Mount Tamborine Wine Tasting Tour
• Sky point observation deck
• Jet Boating Gold Coast
• Hotair Ballooning 
  

PERTH:

One of the largest and most populous cities – Perth is the capital of Western Australia. The city has many heritage and cultural sites, and popular public and government buildings like the Perth Mint, Parliament House, the Supreme Court, and Government House. Perth was a naval base during World War II for the Allies. Fremantle Harbour and Perth Airport serve the city.

Places to Visit:

• Rottnest Island 
• Margaret River
• Optus Stadium

ADELAIDE:  

Adelaide was named in her honor when it was founded in 1836 as the proposed capital of Australia's sole free-established British province. It was renowned as the "City of Churches" due to its diversity of faiths and for being a prominent example of religious freedom and progressive governmental changes. Today, Adelaide is famous for its various festivals and athletic events, its food and wine, its coastline and hills, its significant defense and industrial sectors, and its rising space sector, which includes the Australian Space Agency.

Places to Visit:

• National Wine Centre of Australia
• St Peter's Cathedral
• Adelaide Botanic Garden
• River Cruise
• Grand Barossa

Q.1 How We Can Travel Within Australia?

The distances between the major cities are large, so we prefer to travel by Air. The major cities are Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, and Gold Coast.

The approximate flying times are;

Sydney to Melbourne ------ 1 hour and 35 minutes
Melbourne to Cairns -------- 3 hours and 25 minutes
Melbourne to Brisbane ----- 2 hours and 25 minutes
Sydney to Cairns -------------2 hours and 55 minutes
Sydney to Brisbane --------- 1 hour and 35 minutes
Brisbane to Cairns ----------- 2 hours and 15 minutes
Brisbane to Gold Coast ------ 100 km by road

Language and Communication

Q. What language is spoken in Australia?

Q. Are adapters required for my electronic devices?

Q.6 What Major Hotel Chains Are There In Australia?

Q.7 What Basic Itineraries Does Flamingo Offer?

Two cities         : Sydney & Melbourne

Three  Cities     :  Sydney, Melbourne & Cairns

Four Cities        : Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns & Gold Coast

We have also exotic itineraries covering Darwin, Uluru, and Tasmania. On the western side, we have itineraries covering Perth. Also, we have package options covering the Capital City of Canberra along with Adelaide. 

Q.8 Can We Combine Australia With Any Other Country?

Yes. One can combine Australia with New Zealand, Fiji, Bali, Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia

Q.9 Can We Do Additional Activity In Australia?

Australia offers a wide range of activities and experiences due to its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife. Here are a few popular activities in Australia:

1. Explore Natural Wonders

• Visit the Great Barrier Reef for snorkeling and diving.
• Take a tour of the famous Uluru/Ayers Rock in the Red Centre.
• Hike in the stunning Blue Mountains or the Tasmanian wilderness.
• Discover the stunning Australian Outback.

2. Beach Activities

• Relax on famous beaches like Bondi Beach in Sydney or Whitehaven Beach in Queensland.
• Surfing, kiteboarding, and beachcombing.

3. Wildlife Encounters

• See unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and wombats in their natural habitat.
• Visit wildlife sanctuaries and zoos.
• Go whale watching or see penguins on Phillip Island.

4. Outdoor Adventures

• Bushwalking and camping in national parks.
• Rock climbing and abseiling in various locations.
• Skydiving and hot air ballooning for thrill-seekers.
• Kayaking and canoeing in picturesque rivers and lakes.

5. Cultural and City Experiences

• Explore vibrant cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.
• Visit museums, art galleries, and cultural centers.
• Attend theater performances, sporting events, and music festivals.

6. Food and Wine

• Taste Australian cuisine, including seafood, kangaroo, and meat pies.
• Tour wineries and sample wines in regions like Hunter and Barossa Valley.

7. Adventure Sports

• Enjoy activities like bungee jumping, caving, and white-water rafting.
• Experience 4WD tours in remote areas.

8. Scenic Drives and Rail Journeys

• Take road trips along the Great Ocean Road, the Great Alpine Road, or the Nullarbor Plain.
• Ride on famous train journeys such as The Ghan and Indian Pacific.

9. Aboriginal and Indigenous Experiences

• Learn about Australia's Indigenous cultures and history.
• Take guided tours and participate in cultural activities.

10. Island Getaways

• Visit islands like Kangaroo Island, Fraser Island, and the Whitsundays.
• Enjoy water sports, nature walks, and relaxation.

11. Underwater Adventures

• Dive with sharks and explore shipwrecks.
• Snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

12. Fishing and Boating

• Go fishing in various coastal and inland locations.
• Hire a boat or join fishing charters.

Remember that Australia is a vast country, and the activities you can enjoy will vary depending on the season and the region. Before participating in outdoor or adventurous activities, always review local laws and safety precautions.

Q.10 Does Australia Offer Great To Youngsters

Australia offers various opportunities and experiences for young people, making it an attractive destination for both travel and education. Here are some ways in which Australia can be a 

great place for youngsters:

Diverse Cultural Experiences:

Australia is known for its multicultural society. Youngsters can experience a diverse range of cultures, cuisines, and traditions in Australian cities and communities.

Outdoor Adventures:

Australia's vast and diverse landscapes provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, such as hiking, camping, surfing, and exploring national parks. It's a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Vibrant Cities:

Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth offer a thriving urban lifestyle with a range of festivals, entertainment options, vibrant nightlife, and cultural events.

Sports and Recreation:

Australians are passionate about sports. Young people can engage in various sports and recreational activities, from playing cricket on the beach to watching a rugby match.

Cultural and Artistic Pursuits:

Australia has a thriving arts and cultural scene. Young artists, musicians, and performers can find opportunities to explore their creativity and showcase their talents.  

Safety and Quality of Life:

Australia is considered a safe and livable country with a high quality of life. Children can benefit from a safe environment as well as quality healthcare and education.

Environmental Awareness:

Australia's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability resonates with many young people interested in eco-friendly and green lifestyles.

Accommodation

Q. What types of stay options are available in Australia?

Australia has numerous stay options like Air BNBs, motels, vacation rentals, budget hotels, hostels, campgrounds, luxurious resorts, etc. You can choose the option based on your choices and budget. 

Q. Should I book accommodations in advance?

It's a good idea to make hotel reservations in advance, especially during busy travel times or during major events. This guarantees you will have a place to stay when you arrive.

Q.11 How Do You Distinguish Between Apartments/ Apart- Hotel And Hotel Stay?

Apartments:

• Are often self-contained and not serviced. 
• Compared to a hotel room, an apartment comes with a living room and a kitchen or kitchenette.
• Rooms range in size from studio flats to two- or three-bedroom apartments with a separate living space, kitchen, one or more bathrooms, and separate bedrooms.
• There is no housekeeping, room service, or restaurant in an apartment; you must pay extra at the property for periodic cleaning.
• You must self-check into the apartments as there is no reception.

Apart-hotels:

• Apart-hotels are serviced, self-catering buildings. They offer the same advantages and services as a high-quality hotel. Actually, it's a tiny apartment inside of a hotel.
  
• Apart hotels offer hotel services along with a home away from home. It falls midway between a hotel and an apartment. They typically have a kitchenette with a stove and refrigerator.
• They are often smaller than apartments, frequently operated as hotels, and feature daytime or 24-hour reception.

Hotels:

• Hotels can offer breakfasts, housekeeping, laundry services, or room service
• Hotels have different room types, like standard, deluxe, suites, city views, sea views, garden views, etc.
• All Hotels in Australia Collect Tourist city tax locally.

Food And Dining

Q. What are some must-try Australian dishes?

Try traditional Australian dishes like meat pies, seafood (such as Barramundi or Moreton Bay Bugs), Vegemite (a yeast extract spread), and, of course, a classic Australian barbecue (barbie).

Q. Are there options that are vegan and vegetarian?

Yes, most restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan menu items. Australia is accommodating of various dietary preferences.

Health And Safety

Q. Are there any specific health precautions I should take?

Australia is generally safe regarding health. However, it's advisable to have travel insurance covering medical emergencies and vaccinations if necessary. Q. 2 Are there any dangerous creatures in Australia? Australia is home to some unique wildlife, including spiders and snakes. While encounters are uncommon, it is critical to be alert to your surroundings, particularly in natural regions.

Time Zones

Q. Does Australia have multiple time zones?

Yes, Australia has multiple time zones. The country spans three standard time zones: Central Standard Time (CST), Eastern Standard Time (EST), and Western Standard Time (WST). When planning your activities, take into account the various time zones.

Is it suitable for honeymoon?

Australia may be a fantastic honeymoon location, with a varied choice of experiences and beautiful surroundings for newlyweds. Here are several reasons why Australia is a popular honeymoon destination:

1. Scenic Beauty:

Australia boasts breathtaking landscapes, from the stunning beaches of the Gold Coast and Whitsunday Islands to the iconic natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and Uluru. These beautiful surroundings make for a lovely backdrop for your honeymoon.

2. Luxurious Accommodations:

Australia has a diverse choice of premium places to stay, like boutique hotels, beachside resorts, and remote cabins. You can find options that cater to honeymooners with special packages and amenities.

3. Outdoor Adventures:

For adventurous couples, Australia provides opportunities for activities like snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef, hiking in rainforests, hot air ballooning over the Outback, and more. It's perfect for couples who love exploring together.

4. Wine and Dine:

Australia is renowned for its thriving culinary and wine scene. Enjoy romantic dinners at world-class restaurants, savor delicious wines in vineyards, and experience farm-to-table dining in picturesque settings.

5. Wildlife Encounters:

Encounter unique wildlife, such as kangaroos, koalas, and dolphins, in their natural habitats. Many wildlife sanctuaries and guided tours offer intimate encounters for couples.

6. Cultural Experiences:

Explore the rich Indigenous culture and history of Australia. Attend cultural events, take part in Aboriginal art workshops, and learn about Dreamtime stories.

7. Adventure and Relaxation:

Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Australia offers a perfect balance. You can enjoy water sports, hiking, and thrilling activities during the day and unwind in luxury resorts or spa retreats in the evenings.

8. Privacy and Seclusion:

Australia has many secluded and private destinations, such as island resorts, rainforest lodges, and beachfront villas, where you can enjoy your honeymoon in peace and seclusion.

9. Romantic Road Trips:

Consider a romantic road vacation along the Great Ocean Road, the Tasmanian shore, or the wine districts of Australia. These journeys offer scenic drives and memorable moments together.

10. Photogenic Landmarks:

Capture beautiful moments at iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the heart-shaped reef formations in the Whitsundays.

11. Friendly Locals:

Australians are known for their warm and friendly hospitality, making you feel welcome and comfortable during your stay.

12. Safety and Comfort:

Australia is considered a safe and well-developed country with a high standard of living, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free honeymoon.

Is It Good For Senior Citizens?

Australia can be an excellent destination for senior citizens, offering a wide range of experiences and accommodations tailored to the needs and interests of older travelers. Here are some reasons why Australia is a hospitable destination for senior citizens:

1. Safety and Healthcare:

Australia is known for its safety, high-quality healthcare system, and medical facilities. Senior travelers might feel secure knowing that medical care is close by should they require it.

2. Scenic Beauty: 

3. Cultural and Historical Sites: 

4. Wildlife Viewing: 

5. Culinary Experiences: 

6. Comfortable Accommodations: 

7. Ease of Travel: 

8. Leisure Activities: 

9. Relaxation and Wellness: 

10. Friendly Locals: 

11. Adventure at Your Own Pace: 

12. Senior Discounts: 

• Before flying, consult with a healthcare expert, especially if you have any medical issues.
• Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
• Plan a relaxed itinerary with rest days to avoid overexertion.
• Choose accommodations with accessibility features if needed.
• Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, particularly in hot and sunny regions.
• Keep essential medications and medical documents handy.

Q.12 What Are Different Types Of Tours, In An Independent Or Personalized Tour?

Below are the different types of tours:

• SIC tours stand for Seat-in-Coach Basis Tours, which means you will share a coach or van with other visitors and will be accompanied by an English-speaking tour guide who will take you to all of the scenic locations on the itinerary that day.
• In SIC tours, you must get to the departure location on your own.
  
• The pick and Drop point of SIC tours may not be the same.

• A private tour simply means that you and your group are the only ones on it and that all ground transportation is handled by your very own personal tour guide.
  Do i have to follow timing?

SIC (Shared)

• Yes for SIC and Private Van tours, timings are to be strictly followed.

Private 

• Australian driving laws state that a motorist is not allowed to drive for longer than 10 hours at a time and that they must take breaks every two and four hours, respectively.
• Hours of Operations will be a Maximum of 12 Hrs strictly inclusive of all the compulsory breaks in between.  The hours cannot be extended.
• The car is reserved just for the services stated and as per the itinerary given by Flamingo Travels.
• Additional fees must be paid if passengers need to use the vehicle for any extra services. The same has to be paid directly and the services should be within the driving hours only.
• The driver speaks basic English and he is a driver and not a Guide. 
• All passengers must wear the seat belt in Australia. Failed to Do so will get the driver fined and will be charged to the passengers. 

Self Drive

• On the other hand, if you are doing Self Drive then only Voucher Timings need to be taken care of, rest upon your convenience.

Q.13 How Will I Collect My Tickets For Attractions/ Sightseeing?

• Most of the tickets are now E-tickets and can be validated at the entrance of the attraction, in some tours, it is compulsory to exchange the vouchers at the supplier office and reach the departure point, so the passengers should carry the hard copies of the vouchers along with soft copies.
  

Should I Carry An International Credit Card On My Travel

• Yes, it’s mandatory to carry an International Credit Card, as you need to provide the details at  the booked accommodation as a refundable deposit will be blocked for 15 working days and released post your check out. Any damage to the room/ property will be charged to this credit card.
• Also, in case, you book a self-drive car, you need to carry the same credit card that you provided at the time of booking.

Will I Have Wi-Fi Access

• Wi-Fi is available at most of the International airports, Public access areas of Hotels, cruise lines, and trains in Australia. Buses do not necessarily have Wi-Fi. The speed quality and speed may vary.
• Some places may have access to Wi-Fi at a fee.

Is There A Fee For Public Toilets In Australia

• While some public restrooms are free, some have a cost. In the latter scenario, they are also known as pay restrooms and occasionally contain a turnstile for payment.