Planning Your Holiday around AustraliaComments Off
The smallest continent and largest island in the world is Australia. In terms of size, it is almost as big as the 48 adjoining United States. There are about 20.4 million people and they are mostly focused in th eastern and south-eastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are great open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can be best done by car. Gorgeous coastlines, inland mountainous areas and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wildlife are there for the traveler to discover.
You can easily organise for a car rental at the airport or hotel with an international drivers licence or a valid American or European drivers license. There are heaps of car hire companies offering various types of vehicles, from different makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. There is a vehicle to suit anyone. For instance, camping enthusiasts can get camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come equipped with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Deluxe models even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini kitchen. If you are travelling in more rugged terrain, there are 4WDs. If budget is sensitive, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars, if you want to travel in style.
One should be familiar with the fundamentals of driving conditions in Australia: driving on the left side of the road, observing the different speed limits (in kilometres) and regulations in the States to be visited, checking weather and road conditions before travel, letting police know of travel plans if driving in rural areas, making way for the road trains (a semi-truck hauling 3 large trailers), etc. The car rental company will usually supply you with thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), processes in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation in advance will insure a successful and pleasant car vacation in Australia.