Planning Your Holiday around Australia August 27, 2009
The world’s smallest continent and biggest island is Australia. It is almost as big as the 48 contiguous U.S.. There are about 20.4 million people and they are largely concentrated in th eastern and south-eastern 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. Pretty coastal lines, inland mountainous regions and verdant tropical forests with exotic plants and wildlife are there for the traveler to see.
You can easily organise for a car rental at the airport or hotel with an international drivers licence or a validated American or European drivers license. There are dozens of car hire companies offering many kinds of vehicles, from diverse makes and sizes of cars and SUVs to minivans, camper vans and RVs, minibuses, and 4WDs. No matter what your needs and requirements are, there will always be a vehicle to suit you. For instance, those who love camping out can find camper vans that will sleep up to 6 people, and come equipped with a microwave, gas stove, griller and refrigerator. Some even have double beds, toilet and shower in addition to the mini kitchen. If you are travelling in more rough terrain, there are 4WDs. For the budget minded, there are economy compact cars and economy campers. There are also convertibles and luxury large cars.
One should be familiar with the basics of driving conditions in Australia: 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. The car hire company will usually provide you with detailed information on driving rules and regulations, supplies to take (most importantly, plenty of water), processes in case of emergency, potential dangers such as wildlife and driving at night, as well as accommodations, routes and resources on the road. Study and preparation ahead will assure a successful and enjoyable car vacation in Australia.











