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August 29th, 2009

Planning Your Holiday around Australia

The world’s smallest continent and biggest island is Australia. It is almost as big as the 48 contiguous United States. With 20.4 million people, generally concentrated in the eastern and southeastern coastal urban areas. This means that there are big open spaces to explore in the remainder of the country, and this can often be done by car. Stunning coastlines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with native plants and wildlife are there for the traveller to experience.

A visitor with an international driving license or a valid American or European driving licence in English can easily organise for a car rental at the airport or hotel. There are dozens of car hire companies offering many 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 any need or preference. Just to exemplify, camping enthusiasts can get camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come fitted 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 tough terrain, there are four-wheel-drives. If budget is sensitive, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars.

If you are visiting Australia from another country, you should be familiar with the driving conditions: 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. Anticipate the car hire company to supply thorough information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), emergency procedures, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation ahead will ensure a successful and enjoyable car vacation in Australia.

Posted by admin as Adventure, Traveling Infos at 6:45 AM CDT

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