Australia
Do I need to speak Australian English to get around?
English is the official language in Australia, and it’s spoken everywhere. While locals may use some Aussie slang, standard English will get you by just fine.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel Insurance is not required but it is recommended. You can purchase travel insurance here https://www.travelexinsurance.com/homepage?location=44-0110&go=bp
What is common to eat in Australia?
Popular foods include meat pies, fish and chips, lamingtons, pavlova, Vegemite, and barramundi. Australia also has an amazing café and brunch culture.
What language is spoken in Australia?
English.
Do I need a rental car?
It depends on where you're traveling. In big cities like Sydney or Melbourne, public transport is excellent. For rural areas or road trips, a rental car is helpful.
Is tipping expected in Australia?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service. Leaving 5–10% at restaurants or rounding up your bill is common.
What is the currency in Australia?
The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).
Can I drink tap water in Australia?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.
What is the dress code in Australia?
Australians tend to dress casually. For most tourist activities, casual wear is fine. Bring layers and sun protection—especially in summer.
Is Australia safe for tourists?
Yes, Australia is very safe. As always, use basic caution and stay aware of local weather and wildlife conditions, especially in remote areas.
Can I use my credit cards in Australia?
Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payment is common, and many people use mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
What public transportation options are available in Australia?
Major cities have great public transportation systems including trains, buses, and ferries. Get a local transit card like the Opal (Sydney) or Myki (Melbourne) for convenience.
Is Australia a good destination for families?
Definitely! There are many family-friendly activities like visiting zoos, aquariums, beaches, parks, and attractions like the Great Barrier Reef or Sydney Opera House.
When is the worst time to visit Uluru and why?
December and January are the worst months to visit Uluru due to extreme heat and higher chances of rain, making outdoor activities difficult and less enjoyable.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
Australians are relaxed and friendly. It’s polite to say “thank you” to staff. Wait to be seated in most restaurants and don’t expect fast service—it’s more laid-back.
Is Wi-Fi available in Australia?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, airports, and public areas, though in remote areas the signal may be limited.
Do I need a Visa to visit Australia?
Yes, most travelers need a visa or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia. You can check visa requirements here https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions
New Zealand
Do I need to speak Māori or any special dialect to get around?
Nope! English is one of the official languages and is spoken everywhere. You may hear some Māori words used in everyday life, but you’ll have no trouble getting around speaking English.
Should I purchase travel insurance?
Travel Insurance is not required but it is recommended. You can purchase travel insurance here https://www.travelexinsurance.com/homepage?location=44-0110&go=bp
What is common to eat in New Zealand?
Must-try Kiwi dishes include meat pies, lamb, fish and chips, pavlova, kumara (sweet potato), green-lipped mussels, and the traditional Māori hangi meal. New Zealand also has excellent coffee and fresh produce.
What language is spoken in New Zealand?
English is the primary language, with Māori and New Zealand Sign Language also recognized as official.
Do I need a rental car?
In cities, public transport and rideshares are available. But if you’re exploring the countryside or multiple regions, a rental car or campervan is highly recommended for flexibility.
Is tipping expected in New Zealand?
Tipping is not expected, but it’s appreciated for great service. Rounding up your bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is a nice gesture.
What is the currency in New Zealand?
The currency is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).
Can I drink tap water in New Zealand?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout the country.
What is the dress code in New Zealand?
Kiwis are generally casual in style. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is fine for most activities. Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly.
Is New Zealand safe for tourists?
Yes, New Zealand is considered one of the safest countries to visit. Just use common sense, especially when doing outdoor activities or driving in rural areas.
Can I use my credit cards in New Zealand?
Yes, credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payment is very common. Still, it’s smart to carry some cash for small purchases in remote areas.
What public transportation options are available in New Zealand?
Cities have bus systems and some local trains. However, public transport is limited in rural areas. Intercity buses connect major towns, but self-driving is the most flexible option.
Is New Zealand a good destination for families?
Absolutely! There are countless family-friendly attractions, from Hobbiton and glowworm caves to wildlife parks, beaches, and scenic train rides.
What is the local etiquette when dining out?
Service is usually relaxed and friendly. It’s polite to say “please” and “thank you” to staff. You usually pay at the counter rather than waiting for a bill at the table.
Is Wi-Fi available in New Zealand?
Yes, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public places. Some rural or remote areas may have limited coverage, so plan ahead if going off-grid.
Do I need a Visa to visit New Zealand?
Most travelers need a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) to enter. Check your country’s specific visa requirements here: https://apply.joinsherpa.com/travel-restrictions