Welcome to the ATHS Outback Adventure!
Summary | Detailed Itinerary | Australia Information |
Visiting Australia
1. Do I need a passport for Australia?
Yes, and your passport must be valid through April 2020.
2. Do I need a visa for Australia?
Yes, an Australian Visa will be provided for you as part of your tour package. Copies of passports must be submitted no later than April 1, 2020.
3. Do I need to bring electrical converters?
Yes, the electrical current in Australia is 240 volts, 50 cycles alternating current (AC). American appliances will require a converter. Wall outlets take slanted three-prong plugs and plugs with two flat prongs set in a V.
4. What will the weather be like?
Australia is a large country and we will be visiting many locations with different climates.
- Sydney: Average Low 50; Average High: 65
- Alice Springs: Average Low 45; Average High: 75
- Ayers Rock: Average Low 40; Average High: 75
- Adelaide: Average Low 50; Average High: 66
- Melbourne: Average Low 47; Average High: 63
- Echuca: Average Low 43; Average High: 65
5. Do I need to bring Travelers checks?
Travelers checks are not neccesary. You may use your ATM card to withdraw Australian dollars. Most ATMs accept Cirrus and Plus cards. You should check with your bank and see if your bank has an agreement with any Australian banks for reduced ATM fees. For example, Bank of America customers can use Westpac ATMs to withdraw cash without incurring a fee.
6. Can I use my credit card?
Yes, most Australian establishments take credit cards. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted, American Express and Diners Club are sometimes accepted. It is a good idea to inform your credit-card company before you travel. Otherwise the credit-card company might put a hold on your card owing to unusual activity. We also recommend you check with your credit-card company for any foreign transaction fees so there won't be any surprises when you get the bill. Many credit-card companies offer cards with no foreign transaction fees.
7. What is the time difference?
Without daylight saving time, Sydney is 14 hours ahead of New York; 15 hours ahead of Chicago and Dallas; and 17 hours ahead of Los Angeles. Australia has three major time zones. Eastern Standard Time (EST) applies in Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. Central Standard Time applies in South Australia and Northern Territory. Western Standard Time applies in Western Australia.
8. What is the tipping custom in Australia?
It is not common to tip in Australia/New Zealand, except for special service or where you wish to express gratitude for exceptional service. If you wish to tip one of our guides or drivers for exceptional service, it will be at your discretion.
