Tourism Australia

AUSTRALIA

The land area of Australia is 7.69 million square kilometres, making Australia only slightly smaller than the USA mainland.

Australia, officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the southern hemisphere comprising the mainland of the world's smallest continent, the major island of Tasmania and numerous other islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Neighbouring countries include Indonesia, East Timor and Papua New Guinea to the north, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and New Caledonia to the northeast, and New Zealand to the southeast. Australia is the only single country to occupy an entire continent.
Prior to European settlement in the late 1700s and early 1800s, the Australian mainland was inhabited by around 250 individual nations of indigenous Australians who lived sustainably on the land for around 40,000 years. After sporadic visits by fishermen from the north and then European discovery by Dutch explorers in 1606, the eastern half of Australia was later claimed by the British in 1770 and initially settled through penal transportation to the colony of New South Wales, commencing on 26 January 1788. As the population grew and new areas were explored, another five largely self-governing Crown Colonies were established during the 19th century.
On 1 January 1901, the six colonies became a federation, and the Commonwealth of Australia was formed. Since federation, Australia has maintained a stable liberal democratic political system and remains a Commonwealth realm. The capital city is Canberra, located in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The population is just over 21.3 million, with approximately 60% of the population concentrated in and around the mainland state capitals of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.
Travel Information:

MONEY

Here in Australia our currency is Australian Dollars (AUD). We also accept American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa, JCB and their affiliates. Currency exchange is available at banks, hotels and international airports. Try this handy web tool for International Currency.

Health and Safety

Take advantage of our many beaches but always remember to follow basic water safety. Always swim or surf at patrolled beaches between the red and yellow flags which mark the safest area for swimming.The emergency number is 000.All travellers to Australia or any country should consider health insurance.

Communication

Our country code is 61. We have service for all mobile (cell) phones. Internet access is available at many Internet cafes, accommodation and libraries.Australia Post offices are usually open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and some are open on Saturday morning from 9am to 12pm.The electrical current in Australia is 220-240 volts, AC 50Hz. The Australian three‑pin power outlet is different from some other countries so you may need an adaptor.
Australia's domestic airlines provide extensive coverage allowing you to hop quickly between cities and sights. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, travel by rail or road. Australia has an enormous network of well-maintained roads and highways with some of the most beautiful road touring in the world

Shopping

Shopping plays a large part of travelling. Whether you are shopping or sightseeing, there is always a place to shop or purchase souvenirs. In Australia you are covered by Australia's consumer protection laws which require businesses to treat you fairly.

Accessible Travel

If you have a disability and are planning to explore Australia, there is a host of services and special deals to meet your needs. Make your travel agent aware of your needs and have a look at the NICAN site for in depth information on Australia meeting accessible travel needs. The Australia For All website allows visitors to search for accommodation and tourism venues which cater for the requirements of people with disabilities.

Climate

The Australian summer from Dec-Feb is warm and sunny and you can enjoy lazy days on the beach and typical Aussie meals cooked on the barbecue. Summer is the rainy season in our tropical regions in the north that brings our lush rainforests to life. Spring and autumn are mild and are the best seasons for bush walks and discovering nature. The Australian winter Jun-Aug is generally mild, but offers snow on the snow fields in the southern mountain regions. At the same time our northern states have balmy 24 degrees Celsius temperatures.
Sites and Webs to find information about tourism in Australia:

Páginas de interés:

http://www.australia.com/

Interactive Map of Australia
Wikipedia

Este post está creado para ayudar a mis alumnos de 4 ESO con el project de cultura Inglesa. I hope it's been of help.