Setting Up An Australian Business

Getting an Australian business visa and putting up a business in the country is definitely a good opportunity for those who want to have a better life. As many have already known, Australia's economy is currently in a boom, which makes it ideal to start up a business in the country. However, before you rush in and set up shop, there are some things that you need to think about in order to make sure that your Australian business a success. 

The first thing that you need to think about is, of course, what kind of business to establish. Though there are indeed many opportunities for migrant businessmen in the country, there are some markets that are definitely successful in the country today. The services market is still considered as the top favorite for fledgling businesses. Services might either be physical services, such as in the tourism and hospitality industries, or it might be online, which is fast becoming a popular business venture in Australia today.

Another good business venture is that of retail marketing. As you might have already known by now, people travel a lot in Australia. Thus, roadside convenience stores are very much popular in the country. You can also go into online retailing, though you need to set up a good means of delivering your goods to your customers.

Once you have decided on what business to set up, then you now need to look out for a good location. Unless you are doing business online (for which you can easily set up anywhere), you need to find a good location for your business to be successful. Australia's coastal cities and towns provide prime locations for doing business. However, you must take note that you are likely going to have a lot completion here since these are where most businesses are located.

A good alternative location is inland, where there is also much demand for business. Here, you will have less competition since not many businesses have been established in these regions, primarily due to the areas being less developed. A very productive area here is along the route traveled by people, such as tourists and truckers.

After planning your business, its now time to set it up. You begin the whole process by registering with the Australian Securities and Investment Commission. Since you are a foreigner, you will be asked to provide a valid Australian business visa. You will also asked to present a detailed business plan for your operations. As a note, you need to be able to convince the authorities that your business is viable and that it will be able to prosper for them to grant you your permit.

Once you have established your business, then it's time to consider its operation. But this one is another new topic altogether.

Sources:

ASA Group

http://www.australia-migration.com/page/Starting_a_Business_in_Australia/132

Article Nich

http://article-niche.com/launch/Putting-Up-A-Business-In-Australia.htm 

Image Source: 

http://pakyp.com/images/business-top-1.jpg

The Best View Of Brisbane

Once you get your Australia travel visa, then you are definitely in for one great adventure. Since there are many places that you can go to in the country, you will surely have a lot of great time. And one place that you definitely must miss to visit is the city of Brisbane.

You see, the Queensland capital has plenty of attractions for any kind of tourists. The city itself has a wide variety of places to offer, from great restaurants and hotels to both indoor and outdoor activities that you can try out. And if you are a bit bored with the main city, then you can visit Brisbane's many suburbs.

One suburb that you must include in your list is the Mount Coot-tha suburb, also often referred to as only Mount Coot. This suburb is located in Mount Coot-tha (hence the name of the place), six kilometers to the west of Brisbane's central business district. The mountain is around 287 meters high and is a prominent landmark in the cityscape.

Mount Coot-tha has an interesting history as to how it got its name. The early settlers in Brisbane called the mountain “One tree hill”, referring to the single eucalyptus tree that was left behind when it was cleared for settling. On the other hand, the local Aboriginal people knew the mountain as simply the place where they get ku-ta,or honey in their language. When the site was declared a public reserve in 1880, the name Mount Coot-tha (derived from the native word) replaced the former name. 

Mount Coot-tha is perhaps best known as being a great vantage point for seeing the city. Here, you will be able to get an almost 360 degree panoramic view of the whole city, as well as the outlying areas. There is actually a lookout point in the summit where you can go to get the best glimpse of the city. And it would be a good idea to bring in a pair of binoculars with you to better see the whole city.

And once you finished enjoying the view, you will surely be a bit hungry. Luckily, just adjacent to the lookout is the Summit Restaurant and Kuta Cafe. They serve really good food and also cater to large groups (through the function hall nearby), so you can hold celebrations here.

Aside from the lookout, there are other attractions on the mountain. The Mount Coot-the Botanical Garden is a must see for those who love plants. The garden is located st the base of the mountain. Also, the mountain itself is included in the Mount Coot-tha Reserve, which is an ideal place for hikers.

The mountain is very accessible to tourists. You have to option of either hiking to the top or using a mountain bike. There are also several bus services that will take you to the lookout point quickly. 

Sources:
Brisbane Lookout
http://www.brisbanelookout.com/
Australian Explorer
http://www.australianexplorer.com/brisbane_mt_coot_tha.htm
Image Source:
http://www.sacsdevoyage.fr/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/mount-coot-tha-brisbane.JPG
 
 

Brisbane Whale Watching

One thing that can be said about Australia visa tourist holders is that they love the water. Even if they have an entirely different purpose for visiting the country, many would often try as much as possible to squeeze even a single day at the beach in their schedules. And since Australia is surrounded by the ocean all over, they actually have a lot of options to choose from.

But if you are one of those tourists who are a bit tired of the usual routine of just splashing around, but still don't want to get away from the water, then you still have a host of other activities to try out. One such activity is whale watching off the coast of Brisbane. You will surely enjoy riding in the company of these magnificent creatures.

There are actually many whale watching tours being offered off the coast of the cities. These range from small tours, to large ones involving dozens of people, and are usually included in cruise packages. In some cases, you can actually rent a small boat and go out whale watching by yourself, though it would be much better if you have a guide to tag along with you.

Also, there are plenty of different species that you can look out for during a whale watching session. Dolphins are perhaps the most common ones in the coast of Brisbane. The bottle nosed and common dolphins are to of the several different species that frequent the area. They are very playful and will swim with the boat, so you will definitely be able to get a good close look at them.

And if you want to see the really large ones, then you are definitely in luck, as the coast of Brisbane is also on the route of some of the larger whale populations. Humpbacks are one of the major attractions in the area. They are remarkable not only for their large size, but also for the haunting sound of their songs. Right whales also travel the area, so you will be able to catch a glimpse of them. In some cases, you will actually be lucky enough that you will be able to see several different species in a single session.

The best time to go out whale watching is during the months of June to November, as these are the periods when the whale populations are moving to the south for their winter migration. The actual times varies between species, so be sure to check out the schedules from the local guides. Also, one thing that you need to take note is that the number of whales or dolphins that you will see during each session also varies greatly. There are some instances that you will be able to see dozens, if not hundreds, of them in an hour, while if you are out of luck, you will be able to see only two or three during the whole time that you are watching.

Nevertheless, this one will surely be an enjoyable activity for any tourist. And not only will you have a great time here, but you will also have an even greater appreciation of these magnificent creatures. 

Sources:

Queensland Holidays

http://www.queenslandholidays.com.au/things-to-see-and-do/brisbane-whale-watching/index.cfm

Oz Horizon

http://www.ozhorizons.com.au/hotels/qld/brisbane/brisbane-whale-watching

Image Source:

http://www.travel-vancouver-island.com/data/media/3/whale-watch_153.jpg

 

Taking On The Sydney Harbor Bridge Climb

For those on an Australia tourist visa and vacationing in the country, the city of Sydney is one of the places that you definitely must visit. The city boasts of a wide array of attractions that will surely suit any type of tourists. And one of the popular sites that many people visit yearly is the Sydney Harbor Bridge.

The Sydney Harbor Bridge is an arch bridge that connects the city's central business district to the North Shore. It is actually a three-purpose bridge that carries vehicles, a railway, and pedestrians across the harbor. The bridge was completed in 1933 and is considered as the fifth longest spanning arch bridge in the world. Oddly enough, because of its arched designed, many Sydney locals have nicknamed it “The Coathanger”, due to its resemblance to the thing that you hang your clothes with.

Even from afar, the Sydney Harbor Bridge is a magnificent structure to look at. It fact, it has become so widely known, that many people easily associate it with not only Sydney, but also the whole of Australia. However you will really never get to see the real beauty of the bridge without getting close to it. And what better way to get close to the bridge than by actually climbing it?

You are probably thinking right now, “What? Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge? That's crazy!” For some it definitely would seem to be a crazy idea indeed. However, as it turns out, climbing the bridge is actually very legal. In fact, it is one of the top tourist attractions being promoted to visitors by the Sydney city government.

If you are still wondering how this happens, here a little sneak peek. Basically the climb starts at the eastern end of the bridge. Here, climbers are provided with the proper clothing to use during the climb, they are also secured to a safety line and ascend to the top of the arch. Don't worry though, as there is actually a flight of stairs to make your climb much easier. At the top, you will be able to get a spectacular view of the Sydney Harbor, as well as the central business district. You then continue your walk until you descend to the western end. Oh, and by the way, the climb will take about three and a half hours to complete, so be prepared for an intensive workout.

The Bridge Climb is open all day. And if you don't want to feel the sun during your ascend, night climbs are also also available. Another alternative that the operators have offered since 2008 is for you to climb down the bridge, instead of up the arches. Here you will be able to catch a glimpse of its internal structures.

All of the tourists who have tried it have agreed that it is indeed an exhilarating experience. But don't take just any word for. You should try it yourself, and you will surely know that it is indeed a worthwhile experience. 

Sources:

Yahoo Travel

http://travel.yahoo.com/p-travelguide-2754902-bridgeclimb_sydney-i;_ylt=A0S0z0aT3nNL0jsBEB2bItAF

Do Something Different.com

http://www.dosomethingdifferent.com/experiences/sydney_bridge_climb

Image Source:

http://www.flightstosydney.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/hbwalk.jpg

 

Having A Sip Of Australian Wine

When going to Australia, travel visa holders would surely want to have a taste of good wine. And the country is noted for the quality of wine produced in its wineries. In fact, the wine industry is so popular that it has also become a major tourist attraction.

As a bit of history, the Australian wine industry began in much the same time as the country itself. The first grape vines were planted in New South Wales in 1788. however, wine production from this initial plants turned out unsuccessful. It took more than thirty years before wine made in local plantations would be available for widespread distribution.

In the 1830's the wine industry has began its fast development that it was soon able to export its product to other countries. In the mid-1850's, Prussian immigrant began settling in what is known today as Barossa Valley, one of Australia's top wine producing regions. Today, Australia is one of the top suppliers of wine to the US market, delivering more than 20 million cases annually. The country is also at the forefront of developing modern wine making procedures.

At present, the Australian industry uses around 130 varieties of grapes for wine production. The most popular of these varieties are Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot, with Shiraz being the top choice among planters. Many of the top plantations in the country has pioneered a lot of grape planting and growing techniques that are now being used in wineries elsewhere around the world. Australian production has also become the benchmark for quality testing many different varieties of grapes.

As mentioned, one of Australia's top wine producing centers is the Barossa Valley. It is located about 80 kilometers northeast of the city of Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. The valley is a major agricultural region, with grapes for wines being one of its main crops. And with that, it is not surprising that you will be able to find some of the biggest wine making companies in the country here.

One such company is Penfolds Wines which operates three plantations in the valley. They are most well for being the makers of Penfolds Grange (though the brand is now owned by the Foster's Group), considered as Australia's most famous wine. It is also considered as one of the most expensive in the country, with a bottle of the 1952 vintage selling for more than AU$ 50,000 to collectors. What makes the Penfolds Grange unique is that it is made from fruits harvested from a wide area rather than coming from a specific place, as is most expensive wines.

But for those, such as most of us, who can't afford such expensive wines, Australia's wine centers is still pretty much a tourist destination. Here, you will be able to tour the wine making facilities, as well as see first hand how it is processed. You might also be lucky enough to get a free taste of some of the best wine samples, which is certainly more than enough to quench your thirst.

Source:
Australian Wine, Wikipedia article
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_wine
Image Source:
http://www.clickforaustralia.com/Graphics/WineMap.gif
 

How to be Romantic the Aussie Style

Nicole Kidman, Naomi Watts, Cate Blanchett, Anna Torv, Poppy Montgomery, Melissa George, Isla Fisher and Yvonne Strahovski, drop dead gorgeous in many Hollywood films and TV series. And what is common among these stunning women? On the other hand, there is also a vast list of Australian actors. There is Eric Bana, Mel Gibson, Russel Crowe, Hugh Jackman and a whole lot more. People who won their hearts are the luckiest people in the world. Maybe they did something very very special to get them. If you want to win the heart of an Australia, do it the Australian way.

Australia is the top favorite tourist destination in the world. And not only that, its people is also one of the most likeable people in the world. So if you want to get a hot Australian, court them through the Australian romance, do it the Eric Bana way and hug them like you'll never let them go, just like the way koalas do it to a branch.

People in Australia are very jolly and friendly, but when February comes, they become calm and more of a romantic type of person. This is maybe the reason why they stand out. Most of them celebrate Valentine's Day like nothing is out of the ordinary. They give cards, chocolates and flowers and picnic in the park. Men are more likely to be romantic than women. Greater number of Adam's race is purchasing Valentine cards. But there are other ideas that stands out that can really knock a girl off her feet. That is by using the resources available around them.

There are so many romantic places in Australia, each places can offer a different kind of thrill and chill. And where you can find these romantic places? Everywhere. Of course, you can't count off Sydney on the list. During night time, the atmosphere of the country's most famous city is switching into something that sets the mood everyone into a calming and intimate one. And this happens like everyday. Anytime of the year, if you want romance, you can come to Sydney. If you are outside the country, you hurry up and get your travel visa for Australia for two before it's too late. You can also hang out and share intimate moment by renting yachts, stay in a five star hotel or hang out on themed restaurants. Other cities that can offer the same amount of romance are Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Melbourne.

You can also try the outback and make extraordinary proposals. Climb mountains or right at the center of the Ayer's Rock. You can also do it by diving at the Great Barrier Reef. Let your partner see the beauty of the underworld and tell her that she is as precious as they are. Visiting these romantic places in Australia is the newest trend right now. The more extreme it is, the more romantic you could be. Therefore, you have greater chance of getting loved even more.

Image Source:
http://www.mywackospace.com/images/graphics/romantic/gif_heart/gif_heart_297.gif
 

Things You Shouldn't Do in Australia

Being in another country means you are bound to get exposed to a new nature and social behavior. Don't worry, it wouldn't be that hard living in Australia. It is very easy to keep up with Australian customs and Australian traditions. Nothing would be embarrassing and depressing than becoming a dumb ass in a place where you are supposed to have fun. Your immigration to Australia will only be a disappointment if you are going to act way beyond the norms of the Aussies.

When you travel down south, for sure you have prepared your master list of things you need to do while you're there. But you don't have to forget what are the things you shouldn't do. They seem very simple but it can ruin your stay big time. There's always a chance to catch up with all of these. You'll never run out of time. But it is the best if you'll get to know unacceptable behaviors in the country as early as your Australia visa application.

First thing that you need to know, never get mad or upset of Aussies jokes to you. They are known as friendly and jolly. They are frank and will directly say what they mean. If that is the case, it only means that you are very much welcome to their group.

During happy hours, once you are offered with a bottle beer, you shouldn't refuse it. The beer culture is very worthy for Aussies. You shouldn't also let it warm because they will find it very offensive.

As a departing visitor, don't bestow them with wines because it is abundant in their country. The best choice for gifts are chocolates, books and flowers. But if it is about business, gift giving is not practiced by Aussies.

During business meeting, never brag yourself or your company. People will find it irritating. Be an active listener and do not interrupt while someone is speaking and wait for your turn

You also never come late to any meetings you are involved. Aussies are punctual and they will hate you for being inconsiderate.

When riding a cab or taxi, male passenger usually seats in the front seat while a lady traveling alone seats on the back left passenger seat of the car.

Don't move your hands too often while in a conversation. Touching, hugging or patting other men in public is socially unacceptable. Men should not become physically demonstrative with another man, or wink or whistle at a woman.

Australia has so much respect for all the races that they are sheltering. Racial discrimination is heavily apprehended by the Australian law. Think first of what you're going to say before releasing them, especially in front of other races. It is alright to have fun but not too much.

Image Source:

http://www.keanhui.com/image/120509/img_2.jpg

A Nifty Gold Coast Travel Guide

In Australia, travel visa holders often would want to head to the Gold Coast in Queensland. And why not? This little city near the capital Brisbane has plenty to offer to tourists. And in order to enjoy your stay more, here are some useful tips that you can keep in mind when in the Gold Coast.

One thing that you will definitely like about the Gold Coast is that, like Brisbane, it has a relatively mild climate. Thus, you will be able to spend more of your times outdoors, without worries of being cooked under the sun. Also, since the city is near the ocean, you can expect to have a cool ocean breeze hugging your face in the morning.

The Gold Coast is also very easy to get to for travelers. There are many roads that connect it to the city of Brisbane and trains also make a frequent journey between the two. There are also several routes that will take you tro the cities of Sydney and Melbourne. As for those planning to take to the air, the Coolangatta Airport located within the city is a hub for low cost airlines. Also, the Golden Coast's harbors are now being opened to cruise line traffic, as well as other watercraft. 

Whale watching is also another popular attraction for many Gold Coast tourists. The whale watching season in the city begins from June and lasts to early November. There are many points where you can get a good view of the humpback whales that frequent the area, as well as tours that take you to the action.

On the other hand, if you don't want to get wet but still want to see marine creatures, then head to Sea World them park. Sea World is a branch of the world famous Sea World line of them parks. There are also other theme parks in the city that you and your family will surely enjoy.

Once you get to the city, finding a place to stay in is also quite easy. There are many affordable hotels scattered around the city's main business district. And if you find these a bit crowded, you can always head to the suburbs like Coolangatta, which also has accommodations and resorts for tourists.

One useful tip for any would be traveler to the Gold Coast is to book all you accommodations and transportation in advance. There are many booking agencies based in the city and they will be able to get you the best ones at affordable prices. Also, instead of having to look for everything during you first day of stay, you will be able to get right to the fun part if you book your vacation beforehand.

And since the idea of fun has already been touched, there are indeed many fun things that you can do when in the Gold Coast. The beaches, in particular are the most common tourist spots for visitors. Surfers' Paradise is perhaps one of the most popular of the long line of beaches in the city. Though not really ideal for surfing (the winds are not that strong to make large waves) many still flock the area to enjoy a surfer's life at the beach.

Sources:

Gold Coast Australa Travel Tips

http://www.gold-coast-australia-travel-tips.com/

Gold Coast, Wikitravel article

http://wikitravel.org/en/Gold_Coast

Image Source:

http://www.smh.com.au/photogallery/queensland/on-board-steves-whale-one/20090618-cift.html?selectedImage=10

Some Reminders For Gold Coast Visitors

When going to Australia, immigration service officials said that travelers should get the latest information about the country. And since the Gold Coast is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the country, it is a must to know all about it. Here are some of the more important things that you need to know when planning to go to this city in Queensland.

The most important requirement you need to enter the Gold Coast is, of course, a valid Australia visa. This can easily be taken care of even before landing in Australia. For New Zealander residents wishing to go to the city, they can do so without securing a visa first. However, they need to get a special entry permit after arriving in the country, which is quite easy to apply for.

Note that your visa is not only to be used for identification purposes. For those wanting or needing to make financial transactions, a visa is required to be allowed to do so. Also note of the important regulations that you need to remember with regards to your visa. Be sure to keep track of your visa's expiry date so that you can apply for an extension early if needed.

Passports are also very important documents when traveling to the Gold Coast. Thus make sure that you always carry it with you for identification purposes. Also, as a reminder, you should always carry additional identification documents such as ID's or licenses, in case you might need to present them.

And speaking of licenses, tourists planning to tour the city also need to know to the rules with regards to driving here. If you already have a license in your home country, then you are already qualified to drive in the Gold Coast, provided that it is recognized by authorities. Those who were not accredited or have no license at all need to get an international license, which you can easily apply for from the local transportation department office.

People going to the Gold Coast might also need to take care of bank records to be able to make transactions. One thing that you need to be sure of is that the bank which houses your account has offices here. Luckily, most of the international banks have branches in the Gold Coast, so you need not worry. In some case, you might need to transfer your accounts to am affiliate of the bank. Be sure to do this before arriving here, so that you don't get into a snag later on.

Sources:

Australia Forum

http://www.australiaforum.com/information/australia/the-gold-coast-fun-in-the-sun-down-under.html

Gold Coast.net

http://www.gold-coast.net/international/visas.html