Highlights |
Guided Package Includes
- Flights LAX-Sydney, Melbourne-LAX
- Intra-Australia flights
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 10 nights First Class accommodations
- All transfers
- Breakfast daily
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach
- Services of English-speaking local guides
- Entrance fees per itinerary
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Australia. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey
DAY 2, Thursday - En Route
En route to Australia. Cross over the international dateline and lose one day
DAY 3, Friday - Arrive in Sydney
Arrive in Sydney and transfer to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Optional: Welcome Dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant
Overnight: Sydney
DAY 4, Saturday - Sydney City Tour
Today begins with a morning tour of Sydney. View the historic Rocks area and Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, with its views of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the famous Bondi Beach. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure
Optional: Sydney Opera House Tour & Harbour Luncheon Cruise
Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Sunday - Full Day in Sydney
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Sydney, the original British settlement site. Now the largest city in Australia, Sydney is the country's principle financial and cultural center
Optional: Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb
Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Monday - Full Day in Sydney
Spend your last full day in Sydney at leisure. Perhaps stroll through Circular Quay to see the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Customs House, a symbol of Sydney's heritage
Optional: Full Day Blue Mountains Tour
Overnight: Sydney
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Tuesday - Flight to Cairns
This morning, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cairns. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The balance of the day is free at leisure to swim in the hotel lagoon, walk the Esplanade, or shop in the local galleries
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8, Wednesday - Green Island Tour
Today, enjoy half day cruise to Green Island by The Great Adventure. Green Island is a large coral cay surrounded by coral reefs and colorful marine life. Today's trip includes return air-conditioned fast catamaran cruise, morning tea, choice of Glass Bottom Boat coral viewing tour or use of snorkelling equipment, self-guided walk through the rainforest and entry to the resort's swimming pool
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 9, Thursday - Full Day in Cairns
Spend a full day at leisure in Cairns, famous for its tropical climate and lush scenery. Take a ride on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, try your luck at the casino, or just relax and enjoy the city's atmosphere
Optional: Kuranda Train Tour
Overnight: Cairns
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Friday - Flight to Melbourne
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Melbourne. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the balance of the day exploring the city on your own
Overnight: Melbourne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Saturday - Melbourne City Tour
This morning, enjoy a tour of Melbourne, the second-largest city in Australia. Melbourne is renowned for its fine restaurants and shops as well as its gardens and historical charm. Highlights include the Italian Quarter, the Shrine of Remembrance, the Botanical Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens, and a spectacular view of the city from Westgate Bridge. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure
Optional: Half Day Penguin Parade
Overnight: Melbourne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 12, Sunday - Full Day in Melbourne
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Melbourne, often regarded as the sporting capital of Australia. Renowned for its excellent climate and vibrant street life, especially live music, Melbourne offers visitors plenty to see and do
Optional: Full Day Savannah Walkabout
Overnight: Melbourne
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 13, Monday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to airport for your flight to the USA
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| Welcome Dinner at the Waterfront Restaurant |
Day #3 |
01 May 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $109
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Enjoy a welcome dinner at the famous Waterfront Restaurant, located in the historic Rocks area of Sydney. Here you will enjoy a fine dining experience while appreciating the impressive views of the Sydney Harbour and Opera House.
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| Sydney Opera House Tour & Harbour Luncheon Cruise |
Day #4 |
17 Jul 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $86
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This afternoon, enjoy a lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour, followed by a tour of the world-famous Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Harbour is said to be one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, and the lunch cruise will prove to be an excellent way to see this natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy a tour of the Sydney Opera house. Formally opened by Elizabeth II, Queen of Australia, in 1973, the Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent, world famous performing arts centre has come to represent Sydney.
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| Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb |
Day #5 |
01 Apr 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $180
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Experience the climb of your life! Enjoy an invigorating climb to the top of the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge and admire panoramic views of the city and harbour below. A professional team of experienced climbers will escort you to the very top. A complimentary photo of your climb is included.
Please be advised that there are no hotel pick-up or drop-off services included with this tour. Passengers must provide their own transfer to the Bridgeclimb Office at 5 Cumberland Street, just a short walk from the center of the CBD.
Prior to the climb, passengers must take a breathing test for acclimating purposes. Rubber soled shoes are recommended for the climb. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to climbing time. Details to be advised locally.
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| Full Day Blue Mountains |
Day #6 |
01 Apr 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $130
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Enjoy a full day tour of Australia's Blue Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel over Sydney Harbour Bridge to Featherdale Wildlife Park where you will have the chance to meet unique Australian animals, feed a kangaroo, and have your picture taken with a koala. Then continue to the Blue Mountains. Marvel at the sheer escarpments, rugged bushland, and awe-inspiring mountain lookouts. Enjoy a two course lunch before having the opportunity to ride the world's steepest Scenic Railway, Scenic Cableway, or the Skyway Cable Car (own expense). The tour then continues past Homebush Bay, the site of the 2000 Olympic Village.
Departs at 8:00 a.m. from the Grace Hotel. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at the Grace Hotel.
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| Full Day Kuranda Train Tour with lunch |
Day #9 |
01 Apr 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $185
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Today, enjoy a full day tour to the famous Kuranda Rainforest via the Kuranda Scenic Railway. An amazing journey awaits as you travel on one of the world's most scenic rail routes, dipping through hand-hewn tunnels and over bridges spanning spectacular gorges. A stop will be made at Barron Gorge to view the Falls en route to Kuranda Station. Upon arrival, spend time exploring this quaint village before boarding the unusual amphibious Army Duck for a unique view of the Rainforest. Following your ride, join the Dreamtime Walk for an insightful glimpse into the ancient Aboriginal and Islander history of the region. Afterwards, continue to the Rainforest Amphitheater to enjoy a special performance by the Pamagirri Dancers as they perform a range of native dances which reflect the humor and excitement of their culture. Following a delicious BBQ lunch, travel to the Koala & Wildlife Park nearby. During your visit, you'll see crocodiles, koalas, and even have the opportunity to hand-feed the kangaroos and wallabies. From here, the tour returns to the Kuranda Station where, upon arrival, you will board the Skyrail and experience views of the Rainforest canopy unlike any you've seen. Along the way you'll stop briefly to take a stroll or a visit to the CSIRO Interpretive Center. Afterwards, continue to Caravonica Lakes where a coach awaits to transfer you back to your hotel.
Departs at 7:45 a.m. from the Mercure Harbourside Hotel. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at the Mercure Harbourside Hotel.
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| Half Day Penguin Parade 3:00 PM |
Day #11 |
01 Apr 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $93
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This afternoon, witness the natural phenomenon of the Penguins Parade on Phillip Island. Every evening at dusk, the little Fairy Penguins come from the sea to burrow in the sands of Summerland Beach, an event which draws millions of visitors each year.
Departs between 3:00 and 4:00 p.m. from 180 Swanston Street, depending on the season. Return between 10:30 and 11:30 p.m. depending on the season. For those traveling in groups of 10 or more, direct pick-up and drop-off services at the hotel are provided.
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| Full Day Savannah Walkabout 9:00 AM |
Day #12 |
01 Apr 2009 - 30 Apr 2010 $147
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Depart Melbourne this morning for a brief journey west to the Serendip Open Range Sanctuary, a protected habitat for wild kangaroos and native birds, including cockatoos and honeyeaters. After a short walk to meet the kangaroos, begin a special safari drive around the sanctuary to see the animals. Then, disembark and walk to the billabong, home to a large population of waterbirds. Before lunch, visit a protected population of wallabies and have the opportunity to get close to some unusual endemic Australian birds. The open-air picnic includes gourmet sandwiches, fruit, cakes, and delicious Australian "Billy tea." Afterward, the tour continues a few miles north in the bushland of You Yangs Park, home to a large number of adorable wild koalas. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the gum trees, keeping an eye out for koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, and birds in their natural setting. Continue to walk through the granite formations of the You Yangs, which once hosted huge meetings of Aboriginal People from all over southeastern Australia, before finally returning to Melbourne in the early evening.
Departs at 9:00 a.m from your hotel. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at your hotel at approximately 6:00 p.m.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling cost at least 10% more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
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Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you’ll need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | Australia - In Australia the seasons are reversed compared to the United States. Spring: September – November; Summer: December – February; Fall: March – May; Winter: June – August
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather coat. Sunscreen and a hat or sunglasses are also recommended.
Australia Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/asia-pacific/default.aspx#nz-australia-weather
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| E-tickets | Most airlines now require that we provide e-tickets in place of paper tickets. At check-in, you should be ready to provide your e-ticket itinerary and ticket numbers, as well as identification (valid passport) to the agent. In a few cases where e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive your tickets in a paper form.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
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| Hotels | | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard. | | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Australia - Travelers will find many familiar amenities in Australia. Stores are open all week and during the weekend. Shops throughout Australia offer aboriginal arts and crafts, fine wool garments and high-quality opal gemstones.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus.
| Australia - The Australian Dollar is the currency of Australia.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally |
On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them.
Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below.
This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information.
http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| Australia - Payment can be made by cash AU$ or credit card.
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day - *Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day - *Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours) - *River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises) - *Private car tours(small groups of 2-14 passengers):
$12 to $16 per person per day for each day of sightseeing - *Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person - *Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner) - *Chamber maid:
$1 per person per day
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Australia - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Australia
| | Languages | Australia - English is the local language.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Australia - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Australia - Australia is among the most egalitarian societies in the world. As such, honorifics such as “sir” and “ma'am” are often replaced by the more inclusive term “mate.” This familiarity is meant to demonstrate a sense of equality and is in no way considered disrespectful. Otherwise, standard courtesies should be observed just as in the United States.
| | Holidays - Australia |
| Holidays 2009 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
| Jan 26 |
Australia Day |
Apr 10 |
Good Friday |
Apr 11 |
Easter Saturday |
Apr 12 |
Easter |
Apr 13 |
Easter Monday |
Apr 25 |
ANZAC Day |
Jun 8 |
Queen's Birthday |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
Boxing Day |
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