Victoria is Australia’s smallest state, and also one of the most densely populated. It’s best known for cities like Melbourne and gorgeous coastal scenery. If you want to visit Australia, Victoria is a great starting point. Here are a number of tips that will help you better enjoy this beautiful Down Under state:
Read the Travel Guides
Before you leave, read the travel guides about Victoria. Visit travel forums and read blog posts. It’s important to educate so you know where to visit, which tourist traps to avoid and how to plan your itinerary. For example, know the things to do in Melbourne before going there can help you save time and money. Australia can be very expensive to wander around, so know where you are going by doing some simple research online.
Pack Plenty of Screen
One of Victoria’s major attractions is its stunning coastlines. You can go to coastal Victoria to swim, dive snorkel, surf or simply to enjoy the gorgeous scenery. You will never get tired. While you are enjoying your vacation at a breathtaking Victorian beach, it’s important to keep safely in mind. The Australian sun is particularly harsh and beaches are not safe to visit without wearing sunscreen. Though Victoria doesn’t have the sky-high skin cancer rates as in nearby Queensland, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Do not spend prolonged periods out in the sun. Wear sunscreen at all times. Avoid the midday sun and sunbathe in the morning or enjoy the fading daylight in the evenings.
The North and the South Parts of the State Offer Very Different Attractions
Victoria’s northern regions starkly contrast the warm, sun kissed southern regions. While you can enjoy attractions like the Great Ocean Road in the south, the northern parts are known best for skiing. Yes, skiing, because of the snow-capped Victorian Alps. Visit in the middle of the year to enjoy the snow and ski. (Remember, Australia is on the southern hemisphere so the seasons are reversed).
Spend Some Time in the Cities as Well
It’s easy to end up on an isolated beach in Victoria. But don’t forget Under Spend Some Time in the Cities as Well, “Melbourne is also very diverse, and you can enjoy eating the best burgers Melbourne or cuisine from around the world at eateries here. Cities like Geelong are also perfect to enjoy breezy ocean scenery as well as urban delights.
Mind Your Habits
If you are coming from a place like America, some of your habits might be perceived as offensive locally. For example, do not try to tip waiters and bartenders, unless it’s really for a truly exceptional service. There’s no tipping culture in Australia. Learn what’s appropriate locally by reading travel guides.
Use a Guide to Understand the Language
Aussie English you will hear in Australia is not your typical English. There will be many words travellers from places like the US or the UK will not understand. For example, if you hear weird words like “ute” that means a pickup truck. Learn about these Aussie words and phrases to avoid getting misunderstood.
Travelling in Victoria can be immensely fun as long as you heed the above tips.