There are some travel destinations where it pays to go prepared, both physically and emotionally. You know that the moment you step out of the airport bubble, you’re on your own.
However, that’s not at all true of Australia. In fact, it is one of the most convenient countries to travel to in the entire world.
But what is it about going to Oz that is just so convenient (apart from the fact that it is English-speaking, of course)? Let’s find out.
Rapid Healthcare
First, Australia is the type of place that likes to take care of visitors if, for whatever reason, they are unlucky enough to fall ill or get injured. The country will usually go out of its way to ensure that they get the medical services that they need.
For example, you can often see a doctor same-day if you have travel insurance. What’s more, you won’t need to deal with any haggling over premiums, since it is usually locked before you fly.
Added to that, there are decent facilities if you do have to wait. Often, healthcare professionals from different areas will care for you until a specialist or doctor is ready to see you.
Instant Digital Perks
Australia is also at the forefront of the tech revolution, offering travelers plenty of digital perks to make your stay more enjoyable. For example, you can often transfer money into the country with ease, so you don’t need to worry about getting cash before you fly.
You can also pay for things with a tap, especially in restaurants, and avoid some of the frictions you might find elsewhere.
Affordable Food
Surprisingly, Oz is also quite affordable on the food front. Many local restaurants from the country’s migrant population offer great prices, especially on Thai, Vietnamese, and Indian foods.
Also, you’ll notice that a lot of these restaurants are generous with their portions. You’ll often get heaping servings that taste delicious and let you make the most of the experience.
Accessible Facilities Are Everywhere
A bit like Europe, accessible facilities are everywhere in Australia. If you need to go to the disabled bathroom during your trip, you’ll find one in almost all public and private spaces.
What’s more, there are plenty of other amenities, designed to make life better. For example, you’ll find wheelchair ramps on pretty much every street corner. You’ll also find various grab rails and lifts elsewhere, offering Japanese-levels of hospitality, just with a sunnier, happier twist.
Even if you don’t have a disability, many of these features make it easier to get around the country. Australia is a relatively safe bet for anyone wanting to travel over age 65.
Spacious Public Spaces
Another convenience in Australia is the country’s many public spaces. City planners are incredibly generous, forking over large areas of land for the pleasure of residents.
What’s more, many of these spaces come surprisingly well equipped. For example, you’ll often find things like picnic areas and benches to rest before you move on. Also, many coffee shops are allowed to set up in parks, meaning that there’s always somewhere to grab and drink and perhaps, go to the bathroom.
These facilities mean that, again, it is very friendly to elders and families. With parks and spaces so close to transit hubs, it is relatively easy to get around and have a rest when the time comes, with play parks and swings and roundabouts for kids.
Transit Facilities
As you make your way around Australia’s ports and transit hubs, you’ll also notice that they have plenty of facilities to help with your onward journey. For example, most of them have a bureau de change if you need more cash before moving out into the city. They also have luggage facilities, like Radical Storage Sydney, so you can keep bags and suitcases safe while you travel around the city. This way, you don’t have to drag them with you until you are allowed to check into your hotel.
You should also find that many of these transit hubs have travel agents in them. Professionals can guide you on what to do next and how to make the most of your visit, including where to stay. You can also use them to book experiences on your behalf so you don’t spend all day sifting through the hotel catalog.
Rain-Ready Infrastructure
Australia might be a sunny place, but it does rain from time to time in the populated coastal areas. And because of this, urban planners have been proactive with policies.
For example, most buildings and shops have umbrella dryers. These are essentially stands at the entrance where you can deposit your umbrella and then pick it up again on the way back, keeping everything nice and dry.
Also, you’ll notice that a lot of stores, markets, and coffee places have handy covered seating for when the heavens open. Again, these prevent you from getting wet if you’ve gone into the city without being properly prepared.
Hand-Feeding Of Wildlife
Australia even makes it convenient to hand-feed a lot of the wildlife in the country. So-called “open habitats” make it easy to get up close and personal with animals and provide them with a good meal.
If you go to one of these places, the wardens will provide the food to give to the animals. Don’t try to give them human food as it might not be safe for their bodies.
Depending on where you go, you might be able to pet and feed wallabies or kangaroos. You can also sometimes see other species, like lizards, which call the continent home.
Walkable Suburbs
A final Australian convenience is the country’s highly walkable suburbs. Most things are just a few minutes’ stroll away, making short stays in Airbnbs highly convenient. You don’t usually need to hire a car, especially if you understand how the public transport works in the area you’re visiting. This makes it a great destination for solo travelers looking to enjoy the country on a budget.
Very helpful explanation — I learned several useful techniques.