Some Small Tips When Moving To Australia

When planning Australia migration, there are many things that you need to remember. After all, just like any country, Australia has its own unique characteristics. Knowing these will be very helpful in getting used to living there.

Many of the following tips are actually quite ordinary and very mundane. However, these are the ones that are often easily forgotten by foreigners. And it is definitely not a good idea to forget them, as these will often lead you to some rather uncomfortable situations. Note that these reminders apply to both immigrants and simple visitors.

The first thing that you need to worry about when going to Australia is the weather. As you have already know, the continent is a large desert. Thus, you can definitely expect it to be very dry and hot. Remember to pack in clothes that are suited for such a climate. Here's one thing to remember, never bring in winter clothes. Unless you are going to the southernmost cities or the mountains, it is highly unlikely that you will ever encounter snow. Though the nights will definitely be a little bit colder than what you are used to.

And since the Australian climate is dry, you can also expect frequent dust storms, especially if you are going to live near the rural areas. You need to be ready for them as sand storms are known in Australia to be very troublesome. Also note that, while it is indeed very sunny in the country, this is not always a good thing. The rate of skin cancer cases in Australia is quite high, so remember to bring in a good amount of protection when going out. If you are living near forest areas, be also prepared for forest fires as these are quite common, But, of course, don't let this stop you from enjoying the various outdoor sights that the country is widely known for.

You will also need to get used to the set-up of homes in Australia. One thing that you need to be careful of is electricity. If you are coming from a country in the west, such as the United States, never try to plug any appliance that you brought in directly to a wall socket, as this might explode. The voltage ratings are higher in Australia, so you need to either provide an adapter or switch to a more suited equipment.

Also be aware of Australian business practices so that your transactions will be much easier. One thing to note is the trading hours. The hours is pretty much the same with that of other countries, which is from 9 in the morning to 5 in the afternoon. However, in some cases, business hours can be extended depending on availability. Businesses are also closed on certain holidays or when something occurs.

There are still many other small tips that you need to take into mind when living in Australia. But no need to hurry, since you will be learning them during your stay.

Australia: The Open Country

In Australia, more than 30 percent of its total population are foreign born citizens. Statistic shows that Australian migration increases every year. Qualifications depend on factors like your skills, health, age, finances, ability to speak English and whether you have family or business contacts there.

Australia is like an open city where different races are welcome and free to come. They do not look at person's gender or culture or race. It is easy to settle in Australia long as you underwent proper immigration process and got a valid international visa. People choose to move to Australia as a new location because of its fine weather, friendliness of the people, nice tourist destinations, green environment and stable economy. Foreigners find the country as very congenial to people of any nations visiting them.

Permanent migration to Australia is what you need to become a full time citizen. Before you can land a foot on the country down south, you got to process first your visa application in Australia, with the help of an online immigration services provider, endorsed by the Australian law.

According to purpose, there are 9 major program of visa that a migrant can apply for. These are skilled visa, visitor visa, partner visa, student visa, graduate skilled visa, working holiday visa, business visa, employer sponsored visa and parent visa. All these 9 can be applied as permanent or temporary.

Skilled visa is for those who want to work in Australia. Visitor visa is for a short holiday or business trip. Partner visa is for someone who want to follow his/her loved-one in Australia.

Student visa is for those who want to study in Australia. Graduate skilled visa is for someone who have finished two-year course in Australia and wants permanent residency. Working holiday visa is for those who want to work or have a holiday in Australia. Business visa is for business people who want to invest or develop a business in Australia. Employer sponsored visa are migrants who are sponsored by an Australian company who wants to hire you. Parent visa are for parents who want to be with their children living in Australia.

As of now, there are more than 40 nationalities living in Australia. The list was topped by Koreans where most of them come to the country for education. Other nationalities that topped the list are Lebanon, India and United Kingdom. Much of these nationals migrate because of business or employment.

Australian government sees migration as a contributor to their economy. The more people migrate to their country, the more investments are coming. Despite the economical breakdown, more and more people migrate to Australia. This can be for the reason that, in Australia, they feel like they are well-cared by the government and its people peacefully and whole-heartedly.

Planning Your Australian Vacation

So you want to go for a Australia travel visa. That is definitely one trip that is really worth looking out for. After all, the country has many interesting places for you to explore. And to make the experience even more worthwhile, you need to plan out your trip very well to make sure that everything goes the way you like it.

You don't really need to be very obsessive about mapping every tiny detail of your trip. That would definitely take out much of the excitement in the trip. Besides, it would be very tiring if you go out of your way to look into everything. However, you still need to plan the major details to make the most out of the trip. Here are some of the things that you need to consider beforehand.

First of all is the environment. Be forewarned, the Australian climate can be very hot and damp. Be sure to pack in suitable clothes for the weather. Basically, you need plenty of loose clothing for easier air circulation. And since most of your activities will probably be outdoors, it would be better if you bring durable clothes and shoes. A sturdy pair of jeans and rubber shoes will be more than enough, be sure to wear the right attire for specific activities.

And since your activities will be on the outside, you need to have ample protection. Bring in the necessary safety equipment with you when you go. Also be sure to have even a small first aid kit in case of accidents. One thing that shouldn't forget to bring in your trip is a mosquito repellant. These creatures are more than plenty in Australia so it would be better if you have protection.

And of course you need to have the means to travel. Car rentals are plenty in the various cities in Australia and they come in affordable prices. You can arranged for rentals online even before you leave home. This will save you the time of looking for rental shops in the place where you are staying. If you are going under a vacation package, car rentals are often already including in them so you need not worry. On thing that you need to remember is that the country follows left hand drive. Thus you need to be familiar with this one in order to get on the road. Also check beforehand if your license is valid in Australia, if not, you should get yourself an international license.

And of course, planning your activities is a must if you want to have the time to try everything. It would be easier if you get yourself if you get a vacation package since you don't need to think of the activities. But the downside of this is that you don't have control over the activities you will do. If you do organize your trips on your own. It would be better if you group the most related activities together. For example you can do city tours on one day and physical ones the next. This way, you won't have to go fumbling around on what thing to do next.

One thing that you need to always keep in mind during your whole vacation is that you are here to have fun. This will make your vacation even better.

Sydney, Australia: A jar of Honey

Sydney Australia is one of the world's most romantic place. A perfect romantic tourist destination for lovers who just got married, planning to get married or just planning a romantic get away. With its soothing beaches, great city walks, endearing harbor, you will surely find yourself and your partner floating in the air full of love spell. So go get an Australia tourist visa and explore the wonder of the city, experience romance, get struck by love.

Sydney, Australia is better known for its harbor, the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The dramatic and scene-stealer steel arch displays a very captivating view, perfect for lovers who wants calmness and prefer to enjoy the beauty of the sunset. Together with the bridge is the Sydney Opera House that appears with an astonishing shape, you wouldn't even mind entering the building. Inside the theater, you can catch Ballet dancers on their adorable performance. And if you can't get enough of your moments together, extend your romance on the harbor until the night, when gleaming lights all over Sydney illuminate the city. You can also try scenic flights over Sydney by riding a plane.

If you prefer a beach getaway with your partner, Sydney has world-class beaches that foreigners all over the world comes for. Bondi beach's white sand is admired by many tourists. You can enjoy sailing and other water activities on their blue water. The beach also have amenities like restaurants, hotels and souvenir shops that can accommodate all your vacation needs.

Sydney also has more quiet beaches especially for couples who want their trip private. It would be more romantic visiting resorts in Tamarama or Coogee. You can also have fun in Beautiful Avalon and Palm Beaches in the north for its small crowd and nice coastal setting.

Being in Australia, with your loved-one will make you wish for the day to never end. And if this happens, you wouldn't run out of activities to do. You can go shopping in Darling Harbor, The Rocks and Sydney Tower. After shopping relish fine dining on different restaurants, bistros and cafe around the city. There are restaurants that has a nice view on the shiny Sydney Harbor.

When the day is over you can have a good rest on cozy hotels found just inside the city. Sydney got 5 star luxury hotels that are romantic and secluded places to stay.

Sydney is very proud of the Marriott Sydney Harbour at Circular Quay. It is a hotel that has a nice House Opera view, convenient inn for shoppers. You can also stroll around the waterfront and catch a late-night ferry to the North Shore. Couples who have tried the place said that it is the best choice for Sydney honeymoon suite hotel. Sebel Pier One and Sir Stamford at Circular Quay and many selections
also make good hotel services.

For couples who want to fall in love deeper, visiting Sydney, Australia, the city where romance never sleeps.

Starting a New Life In Australia

Australian migration is never that easy. From the time you applied for your visa, to the day you first land there. You need to introduce yourself to many unfamiliar things. New culture, new people, new places, new way of living, there are a lot. It will take time before you can adapt to the new environment that you choose.


Starting a new life in Australia is new but a very enjoyable task. Settling there wouldn't be that hard if you studied or researched about values and culture of the country. Having a background will make adapting a bearable task. Knowing what it is being in Australia through research will make adjustments easier.


Settling in Australia might take years before you feel that you are fully established and independent. But it still depends on different factors like your English speaking capability, your health, or whether you came there as a family migrant or as a refugee. You may need help from natural Australian to settle successfully. Looking for schools, work, transport and health services are things you need to do right after you arrive in the country. Information are vital in settlement, just like in treasure hunting.


After you've worked with your self needs, you go on with your commitments with the government to become a legitimate Australian settler.

• Apply for a tax file number, to receive an income, this is the first thing you should do.
• Register with Medicare, an Australian government scheme that provides people with public health services.
• Open a bank account. Most incomes in Australia are paid directly through a bank account.
• Register with Centrelink, a government agency that delivers range of services to the community.
• Enroll your children in school, it is a must under Australian law that children are sent to school until 15.
• Apply for a driver's license.

Education in Australia is given much priority by the government. In each cities, private and public schools are available. Temporary visa holders however are required to pay for schooling fees.


In Australia, it is the family that regulates much of the day-to-day life of people. For a new settler there are groups or community that offers help for families.


Australia has quality housing, supply of food and medicines and water and sanitation to maintain the good health of its people.


There is a wide range of housing option in Australia. Most migrants choose to rent a house first before buying one. It is better if you reside in a place near to your workplace.


The country is separated by large distance, so it is advisable if you get your own car for convenient traveling. Nevertheless, there are also many public transports that exist.


Finding a job in Australia depends on economic factors, qualifications and skills, the type of work you are seeking, and particular circumstances, but the government provides rules to make employment fair and just for everyone. They also subtract tax from your income that is used for everyone's good.

Hotel Selection Tips for Australian Travelers

Your family now have the ticket and Working Holiday Visa for Australia. You are ready to take off and have a glimpse of that wonderful island down south. Ready to see the Marine Aquarium in Sydney, visit the wild life in Kakadu National Park and take pictures on the landscapes in Tasmania. But wait, is everything already set in order? How about your lodging? Australian adventure is very tiring, at the end of the day, you will definitely need a home to rest your bodies and feet.


There is a great selection of hotels in Australia. These offer can be a part of the services you get from your travel partner. Most of them are affordable and intentionally built for travelers. The only question remaining is “Do they offer you the best quality of services?”


A website called wotif.com has just released their own version of pointers to consider when choosing and looking for the best hotel deals. The site is one of the leading provider of accommodation services on the web. They gave us tips on how we can thrift and enjoy our short stay in Australia. Here are the pointers that can help us on our stay in Australia:


Act quickly and be spontaneous
If you see a deal that fits into your budget – snap it up as it may not last. Travelers should also let the deals, not the location, guide their decision. You might just find a new holiday spot!

Be flexible on location
Look just outside the CBD areas when booking your accommodation. Hotels located in suburbs next to the central city locations offer great deals to entice bookings. Suburbs to look out for in Sydney are Darlinghurst and Potts Point and in Melbourne, St Kilda and Albert Park.

Check for inclusions and upgrades
Hotels offer some great deals online and many will offer free breakfast, parking and upgrades allowing you to save money straight away. Also, some promotions will include a free upgrade in the room price.

Be your own travel agent
Avoid paying travel agent commissions by booking your own flights and accommodation online. Be sure to choose your travel website carefully and book with a company you trust.

Consider self-contained apartments
With more space and the facilities to cook your own meals, self-contained apartments can save you money. Plus the addition of a laundry also means you can pack less.

Remember the kids
Use of complimentary tennis courts, swimming pools and playgrounds will keep the kids amused and entertaining costs to a minimum.

Don’t forget your manners
Be friendly when checking in, a smile goes a long way and may score you an upgrade.

One of the things we should always consider when traveling is the board and lodging. A place where you can bond more with your family. Because no matter how fun the day is, you will surely need some rest.

Interest Rates Frozen in Australia Despite Global Recession

Since the time that recession dim the globe, panic took place. Especially to those who are in business. They are in great fear of finding their businesses in bankrupt. Recession is like a virus that is hard to restrain and the spread is contagious. But the Australia government says, there is no need to panic, there is no increase on rates.

While job employment decreases throughout Australia. People still find the country as a good place for business. With good financial services and protection, Australia is still a venue for investors and small time businessmen. Australian migration is still a very good step to take. Economists and analysts are doing necessary steps to make their economy stay firm.

“The talk about rate hikes was insubstantial and will remain unchanged until next year”. This was the statement collated from Australian economists by The Sunday Telegraph. Backed up by well studied economic data, the news insists that financial markets are pricing in two quarter-point hikes in 2010.

However, most economist who participated in this survey said that it is wrong to price in two rate hikes early next year. They also added that there would be no change until the latter part of 2010 or we will get a further cut in the cash rate later this year as unemployment stats keep on increasing.

Rory Robertson, a Macquarie Bank rate strategist said that this freeze on the interest rate was caused by the deteriorating unemployment rate. “Having a demand for job might mean increase on rates. But since analysts' forecasts says that unemployment will continue on the coming months, the agenda on the rate hikes is still off.” he added.

Bad news on the employment is a good news on the interest rates.

ANZ economists once predicted that there will be rate cuts late this year but scratched it and announced that there will be no more increase until November next year.

“But definitely, the next move will be up.” says Saul Eslake, the ANZ Chief Economist prior to his statement saying they got over the whole 2005 without a change on rates.

With this news, Australia can still endure more and more investments while assuring no bankruptcy. Business starters, small or big, are sure that their capital won't just be melted by the recession.

Anyways, Australia migration increases despite unemployment landslide. This proves that Australia can still bear the challenge of recession. The government has been making extra efforts to protect the investors and heighten up the business investment rates.

Sydney among the Top child-friendly Cities in the World

Just recently, a travel guide book released its list of the top ten cities in the world that can be a very good place to visit with children. And one of the cities mentioned is Sydney, Australia. If You'll take an Australia tourist visa, you'll find the city on the south west part of the map.

Sydney was selected not only because of clean beaches, but mainly because of its high-tech aquariums and natural wildlife parks

Lonely Planet Publications or Lonely Planet is a distinguished international travel guidebook. It is one of the largest among all travel books. AS of 2008, the publication has published more than 500 titles in 8 languages. They also have their own TV programs, magazine, podcasts and websites. These makes them a reliable source to announce what are the top and ideal cities that families can visit as a treat for their children.

To complete the list here are the following cities:

1. Oaxaca, Mexico

This colorful Mexican city is pint-sized, charming and fun to explore on foot. A central plaza provides plenty of run-around space for kids and there's a vibrant market.

2. Istanbul, Turkey

With its mosques, palaces, museums, bazaars, multicolored carpets, food markets, Bosphorus cruises and sweet apple tea, the children will be fascinated and enchanted at every turn.

3. London, UK

In summer don't miss out on playing in the fountains at Somerset House where there's an outdoor ice-skating rink in the winter.

4. Los Angeles, US

A good destination for teenagers – choose between the original Disneyland, Universal Studios and Santa Monica. There's heaps to see and do in this sprawling city that encapsulates the American Dream.

5. Vancouver, Canada

The most liveable city in the world. There's lots of water as well as beaches, a huge urban park (Stanley Park) and numerous hiking and biking trails. All the attractions of the Rocky Mountains are just over 100 km (62 miles) away.

6. Lisbon, Portugal

With trams trundling up to a castle, a state-of-the-art aquarium and a fascinating museum that explores Portugal's great seafaring past, this city captivates kids. The fairy-tale town of Sintra, too, is also likeable for kids.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Oozes old-world charm, with a compact city center, a lively waterfront and pedestrian-only zones. Thrilling rides at Tivoli Gardens and Bakken, a royal palace and museums designed especially for children will keep you busy.

8. Singapore

Singapore is a gentle introduction to the cities of Southeast Asia – and an excellent jetlag-busting pit stop on the long haul between Europe and Australasia. Also, Sentosa Island with its beaches, butterfly park, dolphin lagoon and underwater world has to be seen to be believed.

9. Sydney, Australia

If beaches, swimming pools and numerous ferries aren't enough, there's Sydney Aquarium, Taronga Zoo and the Koala Park Sanctuary, which are all huge hits with the young ones.

10. Rome, Italy

Italy's best gelato, the impressive Colosseum and Castel Sant-Angelo, spooky catacombs under Via Appia Antica and the green spaces of Villa Borghese.

Hang out with Crocs In Australia

Are you a dare devil and enjoys getting your life in dreadful challenges? If you are an extremist and fond of extreme challenges, try this very new sighting in Australia. Take an Australia tour and experience something that will make your heart jump. Bring with you your Australia map and go for a quest to search for your fear.


In this island down south a new attraction pulls tourists and making their mouth produce a big “O”. But the center of this happening is, not really attractive. It was a beast. They are friends of the ever luxurious Lacoste and the nightmare of the coward Captain Hook.


In a very hot city of North Queensland in Australia, there is a theme park called Hartley's Crocodile Adventure. The park shelters 12 wild crocodiles. They are open for public viewing, but not allowing visitors to come really close.


In a deceiving natural green pond there live the crocs. It doesn't seem like dangerous getting closer to the pond, except for the bamboo fences and signs saying “beware of Trinity and 11 other Crocs”. Trinity was the main attraction among all the crocodiles. Ashe is 50 years old with a weight of 350 kilograms and a length of 4.4 meter. She was caught in a forest Cairns after harassing( instead of eating) water skiers in Trinity inlet in 1991.


The show is called “Hanging out with the Crocs”. People will get to see how a crocodile eat a raw meat of chicken the closest that they can be. Keepers hold a whole dead chicken as a prey for the marvel creature. The predator is unseen and idle under the water. The keeper will tempt it with the meat and wait for it to jump for his food that the he holds with his bare hand. Really dangerous. Brave men will experience the crocodiles big mouth, with very sharp fangs right in front of them.


Keepers says they are professionals and shouldn't be imitated. The danger of crocodile feeding is a part of their everyday life, it's their job. Only people who studied and trained themselves about crocodile behavior has the right to copy what they are doing.


People behind fences got no choice but to scream and be amazed by the leaping ability of Trinity and the courage of the keepers. This attraction became active as a participation of preserving the life of crocodiles.


If you think this is what can satisfy you then grab your Australia travel visa now, get on the plane and meet the crocs and experience the thrilling and freaky feeling brought by a new experience. If your heart hasn't felt an extraordinary thumping, this is what you need. Take your courage to another level( only if you think you can). Push yourself to your limit and overcome your fear.

Australia's Sights And Sounds For Tourists

One of the best tourist destinations nowadays is Australia, tourist visa holders has so much to offer for the ever eager tourist. And there are definitely so many activities that you can do. You will find out that your three week stay in country is not enough.

So what is there to do in Australia. As have been said, there are plenty. It's all up to you to decide on what to get into first. But perhaps, the best suggestion that you can get is to try the Australian outdoors, which the county is famous for.

The first thing that you might want to see out there are the wildlife. Australia is the home of the famous kangaroo, and you can see them almost everywhere. But you can better appreciate these animals by going to a preserve, which Australia has plenty of. Here you get the chance to interact with these towering animals. You can also buy kangaroo themed souvenirs to show to your friends back home.

There are still many other animals that you will surely love seeing in Australia. The koala (not a bear, as many thought) is as uniquely Australian as the kangaroo. This furry little creatures are very sociable and your children will definitely like seeing them. Bird watching is also a main attraction, as the country is home to more than a hundred endemic species.

If you are not into animals, then there is still so much in store for you. Australia is very well known as a great diving spot. The Great Barrier Reef is a yearly attraction for countless divers from all over the world. There are also countless shipwrecks along the coast, which would be truly a delight for would be treasure hunters.

For those who want their adventures to stay on land, then you are also in luck. The continent has natural wonders that will definitely awe you. You can either hike are bike to reach your destination. If you want something more challenging, why not try hang gliding? This is definitely one sort that will surely get your heart pounding. There are still other extreme activities that you can try in the country, which would surely give you that adrenaline rush you've been looking for.

And if you are the passive kind of tourist, there are still something that you can do. The country is home to countless museums and galleries that you can visit. And it's not only the regular painting on walls type that is found in Australia. There are also hundreds of ones housing odd collections. And if you are into happenings various kinds of festivities are held annually in the different cities in the continent. The night life is also buzzing with activity, as there are a multitude popular bars and restaurants that you can go to.

As, you can see, a wide range of activities are available for you in Australia. All you have to do book a flight to the land down under and get the best time of your life.