LOCAL CULTURE
Driving and Taxis
When driving in Australia you must stay on the left hand side of the road. Taxis take all credit cards.
Electricity
The electrical current in Australia is 240 volt a/c. For most US appliances a transformer is required.
Quarantine
Australia prohibits all animal and plant products being brought into the country.
Climate
The hottest three months of the year are December, January and February - the average high is 27C and the average low is 17C. The coldest three months of the year are June, July and August. No need to pack heavy jackets as Sydney's climate is generally quite mild.
Tipping
There is no obligation to tip in Australia. Australians do believe in tipping for good service, though, so tip when you see fit.
DID YOU KNOW ?
Culture
Sydney is known for its multicultural diversity. There are over 200 nationalities represented in Sydney's population.
Fort Denison
At 1pm every day, a canon is fired from Fort Denison to indicate the time to Sydneysiders. This practice started in 1906 and continued until World War II when it was stopped for fear of alarming residents. It was only started again in 1986.
General Post Office
All distances to Sydney are measured to Sydney's GPO, located at Martin Place in the CBD (Central Business District)
InterContinental Sydney
The InterContinental Sydney was built in 1985. The hotel was constructed around the heritage listed New South Wales Treasury building, built in 1849.
The Rocks
The Rocks district was named after the formation of land it was built upon. The sandstone found in the area was used in many of the original buildings in Sydney, including the InterContinental.
WHAT TO PACK
Adaptors
Australia's power outlets will be different to most countries. It is advisable to bring an Australian socket adaptor.
Australian Dollars
It is recommended that you exchange some money, although just enough to cover transportation to the hotel and other incidentals. It is not necessary to exchange a lot as all taxi services will accept credit cards.
Comfortable walking shoes
Sydney is well known for its outdoor activities and beautiful harbour walks. Bringing a comfortable pair of walking shoes is advisable.
Sunscreen
Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. The sun during the warmer months is especially intense, however it is advisable that you pack sunscreen no matter what time of year you visit.
Weather
We are very lucky in Sydney as the weather here is always quite mild, no matter what time of the year it is. There's no need to bring any heavy jackets.