Australia on Sale

[randomq]

I can't believe you guys are visiting a penal colony! You'll be surrounded by burglars and car thieves and ... oh nevermind.

[PaulW]

I've had to go to Australia a few times in the past couple of years. Flying domestic is eye-opening. Liquids? No problem. No id? No problem!
Just like the old days here.

[macuu222]

Anyone know where to exchange some American dollars for Australian dollars in Hilo? The currency exchange at Honolulu airport doesn't open until my flight leaves (plus they charge a hefty fee anyway)

[terracore]

It depends on your bank / credit union but the best exchange rates I've found is by using an ATM in the destination country.

For purchases, skim the benefits section of your various credit cards. Some of mine offer 0% exchange fees on purchases.

[Punaperson]

I was first in Australia for the 2000 Olympics, and have been lucky enough to go back several times. Depending on your available time, don't overlook Cairns. Visits to the wineries between Sydney and Cairns are well worth the effort. Anywhere in Australia, check out their meat pie shops - like plate lunch places here, look for the ones with a line during lunch hour. And their pumpkin soup is so good I learned how to make it here at home. Enjoy your trip !

[TomK]

Definitely agree with Punaperson. The meat pies are like nothing else. However, avoid Canberra. It's the Capital City of Australia and is the most boring place in the world.

As for money, yes, it's usually cheaper to use a debit card to get cash in whatever country you visit. Check your card details and let the bank and/or credit card company know in advance you are travelling. The last thing you want is your card/s to be cancelled because they think your card was used fraudulently in another country.

[ironyak]

Not trying to cross threads or put a Damper on plans (see what I did there? but Australia has activated their emergency response plan in preparation for a global pandemic. Have to keep an eye on possible related travel restrictions.

https://www.9news.com.au/world/coronavir...6ae20cf85d

[macuu222]

Yea and now Tom Hanks and his wife tested positive for the virus while in Australia.

https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/11/entertain...index.html

I can see the writing on the wall. I don't think I'm going to be flying down under in 3 weeks!

[macuu222]

FYI....They just cancelled the Australian Grand Prix after one of the drivers came down with corona virus.

https://www.gpfans.com/en/articles/50807...cancelled/

[macuu222]

Got my tickets refunded with Jetstar. Doesn't look like Australia will be open to international travelers for a long time.