What Not To Do in Australia
The ‘Lucky Country’ and its people are synonymous with laid-back and relaxed, but regardless of this easy-going nature, there are probably a few things a foreigner should not do while on a trip to Australia. These warnings pertain to Australian travel, nature and culture – and range from the humorous to the just plain serious.
Australian Travel
Don’t think you can drive across the country in 2 days. Australia might be an island, but it is also a country and a continent about the same size as the mainland of the US. Individuals on short holidays who try to pack in too much, and cover too much distance, will be sorely disappointed at the amount of treasures that must be overlooked. In other words, plan wisely and always keep a mileage chart at hand.
Don’t drive on the right-hand side. Americans might joke about Australia being backwards because it’s on the opposite side of the globe, but for some aspects of travel and culture, that proves very true. When driving a camper-van along the coast of Australia, don’t forget that Australians drive on the left, which can take some getting used to at first.
Get more tips on driving on Australia
Australian Nature
Don’t pet the wildlife. The animals in Australia, although cute and cuddly, possess the ability to pack a mean punch. Kangaroos kick and punch, cassowaries slash with their giant claws, and crocodiles…well on’t go there.
Don’t swim outside the flags. Beaches are plentiful with Australia being an island of 21,262 miles of mainland coast. Tourists flock from regions far and wide just to spend time on the beautiful beaches, but if you’re one of them, please take the time to learn about beach safety. Forget crocodiles, forget sharks: not swimming in between flags is one of the biggest reasons for accidents and deaths at the beach.
Don’t believe the stories of mythical animals. Several unique species call Australia home, so while it’s not so hard to be suckered in at first, don’t become the sucker. Drop bears and hoop snakes are not real.
Australian Culture
Don’t call them Aussies with a hard ‘s’. Hearing a person say Aussie instead of Ozzie is the easiest way to know someone is not from around here. Plus, people might laugh at you.
Don’t use the wrong lingo. Australians speak English, however that English differs from American English greatly. As an American, several situations have presented themselves where, believe it or not, I spoke about situations in an amusing manner – amusing that is, to everyone but me. Namely with the words root and fanny.
Learn some Australian slang
Don’t be alarmed by decorative language. Profanities are not such a big deal in Australia, even on evening television (generally after 9pm) where there is less bleeping and censorship than in places like the US.
Planning a trip? Browse Viator’s Australia tours and things to do, Australia attractions, and Australia travel recommendations. Or book a private tour guide in Australia for a customized tour!
16. November 2012 at 12:35 am
My only qualms with this are the colourful language on TV part as our news presenters don’t swear it’s only after 9pm that certain words can be said on TV.
And also the food service, I’ve found that Australians demand great service and usually receive it. Having at one point worked at McDonalds I can accurately state that if the average Australian doesn’t receive their food within a set time frame and if it isn’t to the standard they’d anticipated they will love their minds.
We like to have this idea that we’re laid back but really we’re not, we’re just as crazy as any other western civilisation.
16. November 2012 at 12:28 am
As a hungry Australian I will wave down a waiter if I want their attention or if I’m ready to order. Why is it impolite to want service from someone whose job it is to provide service. Obviously I won’t interrupt them if they’re busy with another customer.