Camping Tag

Gastronomic Tourism in Italy

Features of the organization of independent gastronomic tours

 

Italy is a diverse country, where each region has its own unique features and unique character. This applies to both nature and culture, manifesting itself in a variety of forms. Cooking here on top. Gastronomic habits and traditions in different parts of Italy are very variable: it is often enough to travel several tens of kilometers to get from one culinary world to another. For example, Venetian cuisine is not at all the same as the cuisine of the mainland Veneto, and the culinary traditions of Bologna are markedly different from the Florentine tastes. There is nothing to say about the differences between Lombardy and, say, Campania, Lazio and Apulia, Sicily and Sardinia. All of them are not so similar to each other, that it is time to ask a question, and is it not about different countries? Therefore, it is amusing to read on all sorts of tourist portals and in countless blogs that, say, such and such a city is the gastronomic or culinary capital of Italy. There are at least two dozen such capitals in Italy (by the number of regions), and in each case we will have sufficiently weighty reasons to justify the capital.

In general, the soil for culinary and gastronomic tourism in Italy is very rich, and therefore it is not at all surprising that gastronomic tours in Italy are very popular among travelers from all over the world. In Russia, the corresponding programs are offered by a number of travel companies (interesting tours can be found, in particular, from Simpletravel; see here). It is only necessary to take into account that the pleasure is, as a rule, not cheap. However, if you are not very well oriented in the field of cooking or do not burn with the desire to think through every little thing, then a gastronomic tour organized by professionals is perhaps the ideal option.

However, here we are more interested in the possibilities of organizing independent travels. Let’s talk about this in more detail.

 

How to organize a gastronomic tour of Italy alone

 

In general, organizing an independent journey in Italy is quite simple. Buy air and railway tickets, book hotels, get a visa – is a simple matter. The most difficult thing in the case of gastroturas, in our opinion, is to draw up a travel program. What and where to try, what places (restaurants, wineries, agricultural enterprises, etc.) to visit, when it is better to go to one or another region of Italy to fully appreciate the advantages of local cuisine – these and many other questions will require you to be careful preparation.

However, here, for lack of time or desire to search for all the necessary information on your own, again, you can resort to outside help. To this end, it makes sense to look at sites like www.tripster.ru, where, among other things, there are excursions of a gastronomic orientation. For example, here you can find a good selection of culinary and gastronomic excursions in Rome and its environs, here is a tempting tour of Venice and its hidden back streets, and here is an interesting one-day tour of Apulia. Similar tours and walks can be booked in Florence, Naples, Verona, Turin and many other Italian cities.

But you can do otherwise. If you are interested in cooking as such, then surely you have at least some idea of ​​what attracts your attention. From this and push off. When planning a trip, refer to the tourist forums, blogs and reviews of tourists, the benefit is that in the case of Italy there is no shortage of information. As a result, you can make an approximate list of dishes, wines and products that you definitely need to try in a particular region. And then go to the free swimming – travel around the country, wander through the cities, alternating sessions of contemplation of the beautiful with a visit to the points of the public catering that you like along the way, and try, try, try. With this approach, of course, not only gastronomic discoveries, but also disappointments await you. But, comparing what and how they cook in different establishments, you can form your own idea of ​​Italian cuisine and its regional specialties. In the end, nothing is more valuable than personal experience. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to ignore the experience of other people. No one has canceled Google Maps and Tripadvisor – on these resources there are a lot of reviews about various institutions in all of the more or less noticeable cities in Italy. And, of course, before going to a particular restaurant, pizzeria, trattoria, etc., it is worth a while to read what is written about them.

In addition, do not forget about the existence of books and travel guides. Of them, too, can draw a lot of useful information. In Russian there is, for example, the book by Elena Kostyukovich “Food. Italian happiness “, which can be used as a gastronomic guide to Italy. (Essentially the same book, only in a slightly different layout, was previously published in two parts – “A Taste of Italian Happiness” and “Roads of Italian Happiness.”) There is a book by Andrei Bilzho “My Venice” – again, almost ready-made guidebook institutions of Venice. There is another literature.

Finally, you can focus on numerous gastronomic fairs and festivals. For example:

 

• Florence Pitti Taste fair is held annually (in March);
• in Perugia – Eurochocolate fair (in October);
• in Alba – the Tartufo Bianco d’Alba fair dedicated to white truffle (October-November);
• in Ladispoli, near Rome, – Sagra del Carciofo Romanesco in honor of the artichokes (in late March – early April);
• in Montefiascone, also near Rome, – the wine festival Fiera del Vino (in early August) …

The list can be continued indefinitely. By and large, any cultural event in Italy, be it a city carnival or a celebration in honor of some saint, is accompanied by a fair of traditional local products: somewhere there is more, somewhere less, but it is always interesting and tasty.

 

We should also mention the organization Slow Food (see www.slowfood.com) and, in particular, the annual gastronomic feast Terra Madre Salone del Gusto held in Turin (in September). The organization’s website regularly publishes information about other events.

Also pay attention to the network of Eataly gastronomic centers (see www.eataly.net), conceptually combining a market where you can buy high-quality Italian products (cheeses, cold meats, seafood, etc., etc.), and a restaurant where you can taste dishes made from these highest quality products (which is remarkable, prices are not exorbitant). The geography of their presence is extensive and has long gone beyond the Apennine Peninsula. If we talk about Italy, the offices of Eataly are represented in the same Turin, as well as in Milan, Bologna (here in November 2017 a huge agro-gastronomic park FICO was opened – see www.eatalyworld.it), Florence, Rome, Bari and some other cities.

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Liguria: Italian agritourism

In recent years, more and more residents of stone megalopolises tend to go to nature, to relax from the hustle and bustle. In Italy, there is a great way to accomplish this task – to go to the countryside on an agricultural farm. This type of recreation is called agritourism, and it is in Italy that it is extremely popular, there are a huge number of available farms in each region.

According to the legislation, this kind of recreation has existed since the mid 70s, and special conditions are even prescribed in the laws. According to these conditions, farmers are obliged to accept tourists. Initially, everything was very strict with this: the farmer undertook to prepare food, at least 50% consisting of products grown on his farm, to conduct tastings of his own or local wines, to organize sports and didactic activities for children (teach them to milk cows, etc. ., that is, to live a full farm life). There are also certain requirements for guest accommodation, which must be as authentic as possible.

Now the concept has changed a bit, and along with the growing demand for this type of recreation, more and more “quasi-agritourism” began to appear, with swimming pools, spa areas, massages and other things. They feed there as in a restaurant (thawed food), but the air is basically the same. The real life in agro-tourism is quite simple: stone modestly furnished houses, wooden tables in the dining room and its own, cooked food by the owners.

If you want to do agritourism, you must live on a real farm, in an authentic place.

Agritourism is not necessarily all located in the mountains, but often. Firstly, there is cheaper and more suitable for agricultural needs the land, and secondly, it is easier to embody the idea of ​​privacy. In general, there are no agritourism right on the beach, of course. But in compensation you can enjoy the beautiful and spectacular views of the mountains.

 

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Agritourism in Italy: Holiday with the Flavor of the Village

In addition to world-famous attractions, beautiful beaches and traditional cuisine, Italy is also famous for agritourism. In the cultivation of this type of recreation, Italy, along with France and Spain, is considered one of the recognized world leaders. And what other visiting format will allow to penetrate the Italian way of life and traditions better than a holiday in the countryside?

Throughout the year, over 10,000 Italian villas, farms and estates are ready to host agrotourists. Here you can ride horses, stroll through the fragrant flower fields, visit the vineyards and, of course, enjoy plenty of gastronomic delights.

The history of agrotourism in Italy

According to one of the local legends, a foreigner set up agrotourism in Italy, who went to live on an Italian farm in order to diversify his too calm and full life. The case was in the post-war period, when the Italian villages impoverished as a result of the Second World War were just beginning to “come to their senses”. The farmer who sheltered the eccentric foreigner was satisfied, having received a good reward for his labors. Stories about excellent rest, wonderful natural food and Italian hospitality quickly spread out of the country, and soon they began to travel to Italy not only for its rich architecture and history, but also to taste all the delights of the colorful village life.

Entrepreneurial Italians, seeing in this niche market, began to equip their homes and farms, to create all the conditions for a decent holiday visitors. By the 70s of the 20th century, agricols began to appear in the country — existing farms that, in addition to producing wine, olive oil and other products, provided rooms for tourists in their homes.

Since 1985, agritourism in Italy has received official recognition and government support. Some projects even provide special grants. In the countries of the European Union there is a decree, which clearly states the rules of doing business for farmers who want to provide their farms for agritourism. To get permission to engage in this type of business, Italian farmers are required to complete a special course, designed for a hundred hours. In the course of the training program, farmers acquire knowledge of the basics of law, management, accounting, sanitary and hygiene standards, etc.

Today, agritourism in Italy is an already formed market. Every year, about two million people come to farms and farmsteads, which gives a considerable profit to the country’s budget.

The most popular regions of Italy for agritourism

Agritourism in Tuscany

The first position in the list of the most popular regions for agro-tourism in Italy is rightfully occupied by Tuscany, where a quarter of the country’s agricultural chips are concentrated. Tuscany is a paradise for travelers. Her villages and small towns are saturated with the spirit of the Middle Ages.

In addition to the picturesque nature, olive groves and wine plantations, agrotourists have a great opportunity not only to taste the dishes for which Tuscany is famous, but also to learn how to cook them under the guidance of Tuscan hostesses.

In the Tuscan cuisine are widely used fish, flour and sausages, and, of course, a variety of vegetables. However, an essential element of Tuscan cuisine is olive oil, which is considered one of the best in the country, and also Florentine steak, which is made from bull meat marinated in olive oil with spices. In addition, Tuscany is also the land of winemakers. Therefore, agritourism in Tuscany without wine is simply unthinkable.

Agritourism in Trentino – South Tyrol

Together with Tuscany in popularity in agritourism there is another equally famous resort –Trentino (South Tyrol). The key to the popularity of this province is the fact that Trentino is one of the largest European centers of mountain and ski tourism with a well-developed infrastructure. Agritourism in Trentino is an explosive mixture of picturesque landscapes, mild climate, mountain “crystal air”, sights, wine and, of course, excellent Italian cuisine.

If you go to Trentino – be sure to try the local pizzocheri paste, made from buckwheat flour with potatoes and savoy cabbage, generously seasoned with cheeses and herbs. Beef tenderloin called tagliata, pickled in spices and grilled, and also dried bresaola beef (Italian bresaola), cut into transparent slices.

Agritourism in Piedmont

The region in the north of Italy has glorified the country for its gastronomic delights. In addition to fine wines, cheeses and other gastronomy, it is in Piedmont that the world famous white truffles grow. Agrotourists who decide to go to this region of Italy will have the opportunity to stay in the agrikols of the legendary “hunters” for delicious mushrooms. If you’re lucky, you can even take part in the search for truffles or visit the famous truffle festival. Fans of “mushroom hunting” should be headed to the province of Lange, where, near the town of Alba, these agro-tourist estates are located.

Agritourism in Piedmont is also a wine tour, since winemaking has a special place in Piedmont. It is Piedmont that is the birthplace of the famous Asti Slumante wine and the wonderful sparkling Prosseco. While serving local Barolo wine, in addition to bread, butter, vegetables and several types of sausages, the guest is sure to be treated with white truffles.

And Piedmont is one of the largest producers of cheese. Indeed, in addition to the recipe, in the production of Italian cheese, one of the key roles is played by the vegetation that feeds animals, and the climate in which cheese matures. Only in this region can you try the real cheeses of Castelmagno, Gongorzola, GranaPadano, Taleggio, Robiola, Bra and TomaPiemontese.

In addition, agri-tourism in Piedmont is an opportunity to swim in hot springs, which the region abounds in. The thermal spas of Piedmont such as the Terme di Acqui, Terme di Agliano and Terme di Bognanco are famous for their sources throughout Italy.

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Is Australia a safe or a dangerous country?

Australia is one of the largest countries in the world, and its combination of natural wonders and developed cities has attracted tourists for a long time: in 2015, 7,500,000 people visited this country. Snorkelling trips to the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland, watching Hervey Bay whales, visiting the Sydney Opera or cross-country skiing on Mount Hosam, there are many places to explore and activities you can imagine. Australia is a very safe country where crime rates are lower than in the Nordic countries. The main threats in Australia come from an inhospitable nature: dangerous flora and fauna, riptides and natural disasters kill people every year, and they should be taken very seriously. Australia ranks 10 of the 162 safest and most dangerous countries.

Australia is a very safe country. Crime rates are very low, and although very few people can become victims of crime, there is still the danger of petty theft (mostly pickpockets). In big cities, ordinary precautions are taken (for example: do not walk alone in the park at night, don’t leave your bike or phone and camera unattended, and don’t put your wallet in your pocket), and you will most likely not be confronted with any by crimes. The greatest danger in Australia is the danger of nature. First, the high UV Exposure Index throughout Australia, which is associated with a hole in the ozone layer over Australia. Travelers hide with sunscreen at any time (at least 30): otherwise 15 minutes is enough for you to get a burn without protection.

The beaches in Australia are beautiful but dangerous: every year over 55 tourists and locals drowned on one of the Australian beaches, due to huge waves or strong riptides carrying people away from the beach. You should definitely look at the flag before you go sailing and take a look at the official website of Beachesafe for more information about the safety of beaches in Australia. There may be several rare sharks and crocodiles that can attack people near estuaries, tidal rivers, mangroves, or deep-water pools; and jellyfish and irukanzhi are also very dangerous, they are present in tropical waters from November to April.

Fires in the summer are unfortunately known as the bushfires season. Inform yourself before going for a walk or a hike. Also among the dangerous animals there are numerous amphibians, reptiles and insects, which are among the most dangerous in the world: there are six of the most deadly snakes in Australia; and many spiders such as Sidney Voronka or the Red Black Spider are very dangerous. Even the fauna can be dangerous in Australia: Gimpie Bush is a tree that is mainly found in Queensland, which causes severe pain for up to several weeks.

A trip through the remote country of Australia can be dangerous for inexperienced travelers. Some areas of the country, also called “uninhabited areas”, have very limited water supplies, no cellular network or gas stations. It is important to closely monitor your journey.

How to travel safely in Australia

On the territory of the fifth continent, there are five of the seven most venomous spiders, nine out of ten dangerous snakes. In addition, there are insects, sharks and crocodiles. Australians are accustomed to living among such creatures and have adapted to defend themselves against them, and the tourist must constantly be on his guard.

Flora and fauna: beautiful but dangerous

Not all dangerous creatures are aggressive, mostly they are shy and avoid meeting a person. Therefore, do not be afraid to plan a vacation in Australia, especially since tour operators select interesting and safe places to travel. But you should not be careless, because meeting with wild animals on their territory can end in tragedy.

Animals

Animals representing the greatest danger for humans:

• They hide in dark places and are drawn to the heat, so all the nooks should be carefully checked. In addition to land snakes, there are poisonous sea snakes.
• Jellyfish Sea wasp, irukandzhi, box – their poison can cause paralysis of the limbs and respiratory failure.
• In the coastal waters are found tiger and great white sharks.
• Illegible in food, therefore they attack a person.
• Marine life. Ramps, octopuses, conical shells, needle fish cause deadly bites.
• Wild mammals. Dingo dogs attack in flocks, cazouars tear their prey with sharp claws, knock a kangaroo with a powerful blow and can inflict deep wounds with claws, and in platypuses there are poisonous thorns on their hind legs.

Insects and Spiders

The first place is shared by spiders and mosquitoes of the Kusaki genus. Next come scorpions and fire ants. Among the spiders, redback, tarantula and black widow stand out, but the most dangerous one is the leukopautinous (Sydney and northern). Mosquitoes carry 4 types of deadly diseases, including: encephalitis and fever. Scorpions infect with a poisonous sting, and fire ants attack the offender with the entire colony and bite, injecting poison, an allergic reaction to which can lead to death. In the best case, the victim gets rid of multiple blisters and edema.

Plants

The flora of the fifth continent can also cause harm. There are about two thousand toxic plants throughout the continent. For example, in Queensland, nettle nettle grows, laporteya, the trunk reaches three meters in circumference, and the leaves are covered with hairs that contain formic acid and inject it into the skin when it touches, and its last year’s dry foliage causes spastic reactions in the form of sneezing. In the same region, a giant Mexican Cactus-Cactus grows, with sharp 4-inch needles that can even pierce a car tire.

How to avoid danger when traveling in Australia

The main requirement – do not go with the intended route guide. Tourists are offered traditional tours of Australia, which run through the safest areas. If you have to make a trip to national parks, then you should shoe closed shoes, wear tight pants and strictly adhere to the rules of behavior:

• do not go into dense thickets;
• look under your feet when walking on the grass;
• do not provoke wild animals and snakes;
• Do not swim in random waters, especially in muddy rivers and lakes.

In cities, the main thing is mosquito nets and sprays. In the shoes left behind the threshold, a snake or a spider can climb, for the same reasons it is necessary to close the door. Driving a car at night is dangerous due to the possibility of a collision with a kangaroo or other animals.

 

You should swim only on the official beaches, on which there is a marking in the form of warning signs and rescuers are on duty. If a sea serpent appeared in the water, then you should try not to move, then it will not attack. In order not to get caught by a shark, it is worth observing the rules and not swimming, if there is at least one coincidence:

• there is a fresh wound on the body;
• the water is turbid and deep (far from the shore);
• schools of fish rushing about randomly;
• Night time;
• Fishermen lure and fish.

Also, you can not swim with pets and decorations, the brilliance of which is akin to the gleam of fish scales, which can attract a shark.

First aid in a dangerous situation

Poisonous bites are not uncommon in Australia, so there is a set of antidotes in any hospital, the main thing is to deliver the victim in 20 minutes, as the poison is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. To slow down this process, there are rules of first aid for poisonous bites (spiders, snakes, etc.):

1. Do not move the affected limb.
2. Apply a tight bandage above the bite, slowing down blood flow.
3. Secure the immobilized tire.
4. Record the time of the bite and dressing.

If a not very dangerous spider has bitten, then it will be enough to attach a cold, but a trip to the doctor is obligatory.

 

Australia, although it harbors many dangers, but following simple rules of behavior will help avoid trouble, and local residents will readily tell you how to behave in order to maintain health and get pleasant impressions and positive emotions from traveling.

Warnings and hazards

Let’s sum up.

General risk: low

Australia is a very safe country. It ranks 10th out of 162 in the ranking of the safest and most dangerous countries.

 

Risk of theft: low

In Australia, there is virtually no risk of a pickpocket, except in rare cases in Sydney and Melbourne. Some simple precautions will minimize your chances of theft.

 

Robbery Risk: Low

Australia is a safe country involving robbery and kidnapping, although in some urban areas it is best to avoid night shifts.

 

Risk of fraud: low

There are practically no scammers in Australia. But beware of the Golden Ring, fake petitions, groups of teenagers who are acting strangely or trying to distract you, and people offering help with your luggage.

 

Transport and taxi risk: medium

Public transportation and taxis are generally very safe in Australia, but driving can be dangerous due to wildlife and drunk drivers.

 

Disaster Risk: High

There are many natural hazards in Australia, from dangerous animals / insects to bush fires, ultraviolet radiation and riptides. Be attentive and study information about the dangers of Australia.

 

Risk of terrorism: low

Recently, Australia has not been attacked by terrorist attacks.

 

Risk for female travelers: low

Australia is generally very safe for female travelers and is open to LGBT travelers.

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Interesting facts about Australia

1. Australia has three times more kangaroos than people.
2. In 1996, the Australian government banned the possession of many types of firearms. The number of armed robberies in eight years of the law has increased by 59 percent.
3. Malaria was conquered completely, in the 70s.
4. 53 people have died from sharks in Australia over the past 50 years, an average of 1.06 people per year.
5. By quality of life, Australia is in the top ten.
6. Australian “national” food – Vegemite. Vedzhimayt – it is processed yeast, brown mass with a pungent smell and very salty. Spread on the bread is very thin.
7. Another national Australian food is Meat Pie, meat patties in the form of a basket of dough, on top of the basket is also closed with dough. Inside the stuffing with all sorts of additives and spices, very liquid usually. Meat Pies are sold in supermarkets as frozen semi-finished products.
8. In Australia, a 50-cent coin at first contained silver for two million dollars.
9. Australia is located at very low latitudes. Melbourne, for example, at a latitude of 37.5 ° S – and it is much closer to the equator than the southernmost part of Russia and the Black Sea. And the rest of Australia (except for the island of Tasmania) is even closer to the equator.
10. However, do not say that Melbourne is a very hot city. In summer there is 20–30 ° C, and in winter at night +4, in the afternoon + 15 ° C. The weather is very changeable, often windy.
11. The sun is very evil, a lot of UV light, it is easy to get burned.
12. The largest tram network in the world is in Melbourne, Australia.
13. The Australian economy largely rests on gas exports, ores and the government generously share profits. Social assistance is highly developed.
14. If you have children, say 4, or better than 5, then the benefits are given so much that, in principle, you can already live without working.
15. About 20 million tons of wheat is grown in Australia, about a tonne per person; A significant part goes, of course, for export. A very small percentage of the people are involved in agriculture: 3.6% of the working-age population. Agricultural labor productivity is incredibly high.
16. Health care in Australia is rather strange compared to Russia. For example, doctors do not come to the call, even to the child (although the ambulance is, of course, for serious cases). It is necessary to take a sick child and go to the doctor. However, people rarely suffer and live long.
17. In Australia, right on the street, you can take household items for free: a microwave oven, a vacuum cleaner, a stereo system, a computer, a printer, chairs, and other furniture. There are a lot of TV sets for different tastes and sizes. People put these things near their home – it means you can pick up. Things are often almost new.
18. In Australia, you can sometimes bargain in the store.
19. It is necessary to vote in elections, otherwise it is a fine.
20. The head of state is the British Queen. On the coins it is depicted. On old coins she is young.
21. In the country the prime minister is the main one.
22. Also in Australia there is a debate over the new flag – which may not be any more British Union Jack.
23. Even in Australia there is the “Flag of the Aborigines,” he recently became the official. Now even at school hangs next to the usual Australian flag.
24. They are trying to help the natives here, there are special educational institutions, social assistance.
25. Among the natives are many alcoholics, criminals, hooligans.
26. The drive is left-hand, and the cars, respectively, are right-hand drive, as in the UK, Ireland and Japan.
27. Very good roads.
28. Old people often ride on such small wheelbarrows, something between a typewriter and a wheelchair on wheels.
29. An immigrant here is perfectly normal, as more than half of Australians are immigrants, or children of immigrants, or grandchildren of immigrants.
30. The day of the death of the naturalist Steve Irwin who died tragically in 2006 in Australia is considered a universal day of grief.
31. Everyone is very welcoming, everyone is smiling. There are no ethnic conflicts.
32. Young people are not bullies.
33. Smoke a little and cigarettes are very expensive.
34. The vast majority of Australians live in separate houses with a small green area.
35. Cars are cheap, insurance is also inexpensive.
36. The Australian car company is called Holden, a division of General Motors.
37. The price of gasoline often changes, in addition, the price is different on weekends and on weekdays.
38. Australian dollar is the same price as the American one.
39. Australian money is made of durable plastic film, they have a small transparent window. Australia was the first to make that kind of money.
40. There are also coins. The smallest coin is 5 cents.
41. Coin 50 cents – large and 12-coal, they are anniversary, with different pictures, often used as a souvenir from Australia.
42. Bulbs in the houses are of two types: either screwed as in Russia, or with a bayonet base.
43. The voltage in the outlet is 240 V.
44. Outlets here are not the same as in Russia / Europe, not the same as in the UK, and not the same as in the USA.
45. In the houses there are often sinks with two separate faucets – for hot and for cold, without a mixer. This is a British tradition.
46. ​​Houses in Australia are expensive, judging by the report of the organization Housing Affordability Survey – the most inaccessible houses in the world, but much more accessible than in Moscow or St. Petersburg.
47. The salary of an engineer or doctor is approximately from 70 to 130 thousand AU $ per year.
48. If you rent a house, then the average price for a house for a family is about $ 300 a week, this is in a not very distant decent suburb.
49. The price of housing is not very dependent on proximity to the sea. Although many newcomers of course dream of living by the sea, but living there is colder, windy and wet. The price depends more on the proximity to the city, and on the prestige of the region.
50. In Australia, cold houses are poorly insulated, and when the street is lower than +15, the house is cool.
51. Therefore, many Australians walk right at home in clothes and shoes in winter (in Uggs, for example)
52. All houses are covered with ceramic tiles.
53. Hot water enters the house from a gas boiler.
54. With cats and dogs here strictly, there are no stray animals in the city.
55. Australians have long suffered from animals brought here. Either sheep, rabbits, and now huge toads from South America are spreading from the Northeast ever wider and wider, eating all the local small animals, and none of the predators eat these toads – poisonous.
56. In Australia, there are feral camels, about 1 million heads. They were once brought here, and they live in the steppe and desert, they run wild.
57. Regarding the importation of any seeds, insects, etc., the Australians are very wary. At customs, this is strictly controlled.
58. Going to Australia for shopping is pointless – everything is quite expensive and the choice is less than in Europe or the USA.
59. Many Australians order items through the US www.amazon.com or similar websites – even with the cost of shipping.
60. High quality products.
61. Very expensive bananas. After storms and floods in the state of Queensland, the price of bananas rose to 12-14 dollars per kg.
62. In stores, products are sold from different countries.
63. Public transport is more expensive than in Russia. Although the payment scheme is somewhat different. Here you buy a ticket not for a “bus” or for a “subway”, but for a time: for 2 hours or for the whole day. And it is also necessary to take into account the zone, where you will go. 1st zone – within a radius of 10–12 km from the center, everything further is the second zone.
64. If at the bus stop there is a disabled person in the seat, then the bus, approaching, descends to such a level that a person can call in without problems.
65. Trains that travel in the city and suburbs are called “Metro”, but they do not go underground, only on the surface. They go about once every 20 minutes, according to the schedule.
66. If a disabled person in a chair needs to take the train, he must drive to the first door of the first carriage. Then the driver will exit the train and put a special metal ladder between the apron and the car so that you can enter directly into the car.
67. Australians are very welcoming, both adults and children. Very popular question “What is your favorite color?”.
68. The Australian Government takes great care of the children. Schools are very good, clean, beautiful, with good playgrounds, computers.
69. Children spend the same time in schools 5 days a week, every day from 9 am to 3.30 pm.
70. Children at school are sitting on the floor. At the table on the chair – only when it is necessary in order to do something, glue for example.
71. In schools, changes of varying duration, there is one big change that lasts about an hour.
72. Children at school are not allowed to go outside without a hat, due to the active sun. They say “No hat – no play”.
73. The school curriculum is not very complicated, there are almost no homework assignments. Therefore, parents often worry that children have little knowledge and if parents want the child to “come to success,” then you need to look for a school with a more serious program.
74. Australian Christmas holidays fall in the middle of summer.
75. The streets are clean, but only because they clean. If they don’t remove them somewhere, then Australians will quickly shower them all with empty bottles.
76. In streams, rivers and reservoirs in the city a lot of garbage. Often seen in the water overgrown with trolley from supermarkets. However, crayfish are found in the creek – it means the water is clean, there is rubbish, but there is no toxic waste.
77. On the streets a lot of eucalyptus trees. Eucalyptus is not one type, but hundreds. They tend to have hard bluish leaves with a strong ethereal resinous odor. The leaves are usually narrow, but there are also swell. The fruits of eucalyptus trees are diverse, sometimes interesting: fancy boxes, pipes or jugs.
78. Parrots fly right on the street, beautiful, but they scream very loudly. They feed on eucalyptus fruits.
79. In the evenings you can often meet huge bats – this is fruit bats, their wingspan is about 70 cm.
80. Opossums live in Melbourne. These are marsupial animals the size of a cat. They eat fruit and are active mostly at night. They carry their babies first in the bag and then on the back, very cute.
81. Around the city there are many parks with braziers, so that people can grill sausages. The braziers are free, you put the sausages, you press the button, the gas turns on inside, then it automatically turns off after a while.
82. Many private and small businesses.
83. Business is strongly encouraged here. According to doingbusiness.com, Australia is one of the most convenient countries to do business with.
84. In Australia, local producers are encouraged. Many products with a special mark “Made in Australia”.
85. Internet is expensive here. It is most advantageous to buy the entire “package” from the provider at once, that is, Internet + phone + cellular + TV + VoIP, it will be about $ 100 a month.
86. In Australia, all of the Australian fiber optic network NBN is being built, so the Internet should become cheaper and better in the future.
87. Australians tend to have a very relaxed lifestyle.
88. In their clothes, Australians are not picky (frayed pants, slippers). Well, in general, since many expatriate clothes all very diverse.
89. But for an interview with the employer, it is customary to come in a suit and tie.
90. The Australian Parliament Building in Canberra is one of the largest buildings in the southern hemisphere.
91. The average age of an Australian bride is 28.9 years and the average age of the groom is 30.9 years.
92. 34% of the male population and 32% of the female population of Australia never marry.
93. The Australian coat of arms depicts a kangaroo and an emu ostrich. The reason for this was the fact that kangaroos and emus do not have physical features to move backwards, and they can only go forward.
94. Australia has one of the highest percentages of urban concentration.
95. At the same time, despite the overcrowding of cities, on average Australia has 1 person per square kilometer, thus making up the smallest population in the world.
96. According to recent surveys, 22% of the adult population of Australia will never have children, and 16.2% plan to have only one child.
97. In 1838, a decree was issued prohibiting swimming on city beaches during the day. This law was valid until 1902.
98. The Great Barrier Reef is the longest reef in the world and its length is more than 2010 kilometers.
99. Any immigrant, in order to obtain Australian citizenship, must have lived in Australia for at least 2 years.
100. Australia – the lowest continent in the world, its average height above sea level is 330 m.

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Australia

Australia is a sunny continent of antipodes with amazing animals. Diving on the Great Barrier Reef, excursions to Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne, the sights of Sydney and Aboriginal villages are all about Australia: visa, photos, tours and maps.

Do you know which globe you can buy in Australia? Inverted, with the South Pole on top. And, by the way, it is no less correct than our traditional one: after all, there is neither top nor bottom in space, and for Australians we are exactly the same antipodes walking upward as they are for us. When you will be there, we advise you to bring a couple of such globes to yourself and your best friend: installed within the line of sight, it perfectly eliminates egocentric errors.

Well, except for a flip-up globe from Australia, you can bring a complete little box of completely unique impressions. What is one monolith of Uluru, blood-red in the rays of the day sun and acquiring a completely extraterrestrial view at sunset! Then you should see with your own eyes endless BBB archipelagoes with some desperate tumult of underwater life, wide beaches with postcard waves for surfers, lively koala plush toys, and finally, platypuses are irrefutable evidence of God’s sense of humor (you will understand this when you will see these animals yourself).

Add to this recognizable silhouettes of attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbor Bridge, a bunch of interesting things that you can take with you, including aboriginal exoticism, and ease of communication with local people: basic English will be quite enough for this trevelling. “Ossi, I’m Coming!” we exclaimed and thoroughly studied the Southern Continent for you.

Regions and resorts of Australia

The capital of Australia is Canberra, the political center of the country: the Australian government sits in the masthead building of Parliament. Canberra is cozy and green: there are no factories here, but there are many parks, memorials and museums. In Sydney, tourists are attracted to famous attractions (from the opera house to the Harbor Bridge), Paddington boutiques and Bondi Beach beaches. Other major cities are also good for excursions: many-sided Melbourne, hospitable Brisbane. And in Adelaide, Cairns and Perth, it is nice to combine cultural recreation with relaxation on the seashore.

The most popular beach resorts are the Gold Coast with fashionable, party and family zones and the Great Barrier Reef – a spill of beautiful islands in the Coral Sea. The center of the country is covered in red desert, where there is a Grand Canyon – the sacred mountain of Uluru, or Ayers Rock. In the north, adjacent to the aboriginal settlements, there are numerous national parks. One of the best places to explore authentic nature and culture is Darwin with historic buildings and amazing landscapes. All the details about the cities and resorts of Australia – on the page “Subtleties of tourism.”

Climate

Australia’s climate varies greatly by region. In the north, the climate is tropical, in the south – temperate. The hottest time of the year is from November to January, when the temperature throughout the country is from +20 to +32 ° C, and in the central regions it reaches +38 … + 42 ° C. In this case, after 1.5-2 hours after sunset, it can become cold by 10-12 degrees. It is relatively cold in June-August, at this time the temperature does not rise above +15 … + 18 ° C, and in the temperate zone it sometimes drops to 0 ° C, it often rains.

The best time to visit the Gold Coast is the Australian summer (Russian winter). In June-August a big wave rises there, strong winds blow and it rains. At this time it is better to swim and sunbathe on the BBR. See also the current weather forecast for the main Australian resorts and in the cities for the coming days.

Visa and customs

To visit Australia, citizens of Russia and the CIS need to apply for a visa and insurance for the entire duration of their trip.

Cash in the amount of 10,000 AUD or more (or an equivalent amount in another currency) must be declared upon arrival and upon departure. Prohibited the importation of food, drugs, materials of animal and vegetable origin, firearms, weapons and ammunition, the inhabitants of wildlife or objects made of protected animals, some medical preparations (including substances containing sports stimulants). Prices on the page are as of October 2018.

In personal baggage you can, without paying customs duties and taxes, transport goods in the amount of 900 AUD (or 450 AUD for children under 18). Also, persons over 18 years can import to the country up to 2.25 liters of alcoholic beverages (of any strength), 50 cigarettes or 50 grams of other tobacco products, if all this is in their baggage.

The export of animals and plants, corals, shells, seeds and nuts is prohibited. Without a permit, you can not remove items of historical value, as well as products made of wood, bamboo, leather, bone, feathers of birds, shells and corals.

Tax free

The Australian equivalent of Tax free is the Tourist Refund Scheme. If the value of goods purchased here exceeds 300 AUD, if you carry them in your hand luggage, you will receive a tax refund (about 12%). To do this, before flying out of the country, a special check issued for the purchase, passport and boarding pass must be presented at the TRS office at the airport. The tax is returned from goods purchased not earlier than 60 days before departure, alcoholic beverages (except wine), tobacco products and things that are fully or partially used in Australia are excluded from the list. The amount due can only be received by bank transfer, the money arrives on the card within 5-7 days.

How can you get to Australia

There are several international aviation hubs in Australia, the largest of which, Kingsford Smith Airport, is located 10 km from the center of Sydney. The road from Russia is a long one: you can get to the green continent only with transfers. The cheapest tickets from Moscow are from Hainan Airlines and China Eastern: 551 USD one way with departure from Sheremetyevo and connections in Beijing (30 hours). Qatari Airlines travels from Domodedovo via Doha, tickets start at $ 720 one way, and travel time starts at 22 hours and 40 minutes. The fastest route is offered by Singapore Airlines: 18 hours 45 minutes with a transfer in Singapore for 777 USD in one direction.

Flights with two connections are slightly cheaper: Aeroflot, Dzhetstar and Scoot have options for 450 USD one way (transfers – in Phuket and Singapore, 42 hours on the road), Air Asia and Turkish Airlines ”- for 530 USD (it takes 50 hours to get from Vnukovo via Istanbul and Kuala Lumpur).

It is also cheaper to fly from St. Petersburg to Sydney with two transfers: Aeroflot and Dzhetstar are taken from Pulkovo via Moscow and Phuket for 597 USD and 37 hours one way. Flights with one connection – from 872 USD in one direction (Hainan Airlines and China Eastern, 36 hours and 40 minutes via Beijing). You can save your time with the help of Emirates, delivering via Dubai in 22 hours (tickets – from 950 USD one way).

Canberra Airport serves only domestic flights. Aeroflot, Virginia Australia and Dzhetstar have routes from Sheremetyevo from 706 USD one way (connections – in Phuket and Sydney, 40 hours long). With Qantas and Qatar Airways, it is almost twice as fast: 24 hours via Doha and Melbourne, tickets – 860 USD in one direction.

From the Russian capital to Brisbane, it’s more convenient to travel with Thai Airlines: 34 hours via Bangkok for 680 USD each way. It is cheaper to fly from the northern capital with the same carrier in tandem with Turkish Airlines (770 USD one way with connections in Istanbul and Bangkok, 37.5 hours), faster with Belavia and Etihad (24 hours, 950 USD via Minsk and Abu Dhabi).

Transport

Traveling over long distances in Australia is most convenient by air. An extensive network of routes covers the entire country, and, besides, competing with each other, local airlines sometimes offer very attractive fares. The key carriers are Jetstar, Qantas, Virgin Australia. Tickets from Sydney to Brisbane cost from 94 AUD, to Canberra – from 138 AUD, to Melbourne – from 108 AUD.

Railway transport in Australia is relatively poorly developed, but despite this, the tickets are not cheap. In the Sydney area, only suburban transportation and tourist routes are well established. Great Southern Rail has the most impressive prices (official website in English): a trip from Adelaide to Darwin will cost from 966 AUD. With NSW TrainLink (official website in English) you can get from Sydney to Melbourne or Brisbane for 81 AUD, to Canberra – for 41 AUD.

Melbourne and Tasmania have a ferry connection. The cost of the crossing is from 130 AUD one way, you can find out the schedule and tariffs on the carrier’s official website (in English).

The cheapest, but also the longest way to travel between cities – buses. The most advantageous to buy travel cards Greyhound (official website in English.), Allowing you to travel on a given route as many times as you like within 30 days. The fare from Adelaide to Alice Springs costs 230 AUD, from Sydney to Brisbane – 140 AUD.

Public transport inside cities

City buses run from 5:00 to 23:00. Travel is paid for with cards that can be bought at kiosks and at stations. Tourists are more profitable to purchase weekly cards (17.50 AUD), suitable for all types of transport and valid from 9:00. In Sydney there is an extensive metro network (from 2.50 AUD per trip), a monorail in the city center (5 AUD) and passenger ferries plying the bay (from 6 AUD).

Taxis are easy to catch on the street or book by phone even late at night; large hotels, central stores and public transport stops have their parking. When ordering a taxi by phone, as well as in the presence of bulky luggage, the fare increases. Tariffs – 3.50-3.60 AUD for landing and 2.50-4 AUD for each km. Transfer from Sydney Airport to the center – 47-57 AUD.

Rent a Car

To rent a car in Australia, you need a driver’s license (either domestic with a translation into English or an international model) and a credit card of any of the most common systems in the world. Sometimes it is possible to rent without a credit card against a cash deposit. The tenant’s driving experience must be at least one year, at least 21 years old for passenger cars and minivans (25 years for all-wheel drive cars) and no more than 75 years.

You can take a car at any airport, train station or bus station. If necessary, the car will be delivered directly to the house. In Australia there is a rental and camper vans, but only for a period of 7 days or more. Rent a standard car in Sydney will cost from 56 AUD, SUV – from 80 AUD per day. In Canberra, prices start from 58 AUD per day for a compact model and reach 122 AUD for a minivan. The cost of gasoline – 1.32 AUD for 1 l.

The movement in the country is left-sided. The use of seat belts is mandatory; special chairs are necessary for children. The roads are modern and in excellent condition. In the center of Sydney, it is better to walk on foot or by taxi: it is almost impossible to park there.

Australia is among the world leaders in the number of personal transport per inhabitant, so that congestion in large cities occur often. The distances between settlements are serious, but it is quite comfortable to move along even, well-groomed highways. Parking costs an average of 3-4 AUD per hour, payment is made through special parking meters accepting coins and bank cards.

Communication and Wi-Fi

The largest Australian mobile operators are Telstra, Vodafone, Virgin Mobile and Optus. Prepaid SIM cards priced from 20-50 AUD are sold in branded salons, almost all packages include free national calls and Internet traffic. The operator Optus has an international My Prepaid Ultimate tariff (30-40 AUD) with calls to Russia at 0.30 AUD per minute. For comparison, Telstra subscribers will pay 5 AUD for negotiations with their homeland over the same period of time.

Not all Australian rural areas are covered by a GSM network, so that in the middle of nowhere you can remain without communication.

There are many payphones on city streets that accept both Telstra’s telephone cards and Telstra phone cards of 5-50 AUD, sold in stores and newsstands. The minimum cost of a call is 0.40-0.60 AUD, international calls are more expensive.

In Australian cities, more and more points with free Wi-Fi appear: you can connect to online coffee shops and eateries, hotels and public institutions. To tell the truth, the connection speed is low, so it is more convenient to use the mobile Internet on prepaid sim cards. Alternative – Internet cafes, providing access to the network for 5-10 AUD per hour.

Hotels in Australia

Hotels in Australia are classified in accordance with international standards, but they have not “stardom”, and classes: 5 * – de luxe, 4,5 * – superior first class, 4 * – first class, 3 * and a half – superior tourist class, 3 * – tourist class. In the rooms there is always a kettle and iron, and the service and decor correspond to the level of hotels. In large cities it is recommended to book the hotel closer to the center. It is there that most of the sights are located, and from the central stations it is easier to go on long excursions.

Most hotels offer accommodation without a guesthouse, breakfasts are extra paid. The system of “all inclusive” in Australia can be found only on the “island-hotels”, where there is no place to eat anyway.

In Sydney, a hostel’s bed will cost from 47 AUD, a double room in a 3 * hotel – from 69-79 AUD, in the fashionable “five” – ​​from 117 AUD per day. The most budget accommodation in Canberra offers hostels with private double rooms for 89-190 AUD per day, the most expensive – five-star hotels: from 240 AUD per night. Accommodation in the “threes” of Brisbane – from 100 AUD, in the “quartet” of Melbourne – from 105 AUD per day.

The voltage in the network is 220-240 V, 50 Hz. Three-pin sockets (so-called “Australian”), but adapters are sold in all stores. In addition, they can be rented at the hotel, leaving a deposit of 15-20 AUD.

Money

Monetary unit of the country – the Australian dollar (AUD), in 1 dollar 100 cents. Actual exchange rate: 1 AUD = 45.44 RUB (1 USD = 1.42 AUD, 1 EUR = 1.59 AUD).

The most convenient way is to take American dollars with you and exchange them at banks, bank branches at the airport or the Singapore Money Exchanges (without commission), Thomas Cook and American Express exchange offices. In the exchange offices of hotels you can find a slightly less favorable exchange rate. Credit cards are accepted in central areas almost everywhere, but in small private shops, especially in the provinces, they are likely to be useless. It is unprofitable to pay with travel checks: banks charge high fees for cashing them.

The country has an extensive ATM network. Banks usually work from Monday to Thursday from 9:30 to 16:00 (until 17:00 on Fridays), Saturday and Sunday are days off. In some states, banks are open on Saturday morning.

Tipping in Australia is optional, but no one will refuse them. In restaurants, people usually leave 5-10% of the bill, in hotels – 1-2 AUD, and paying the taxi driver, you can simply round the amount in a big way.

How to avoid problems

The Australian sun is very active. In the first days of your stay in the country, it is better to avoid direct sunlight, use protective creams and dress in light white cotton clothes (this, by the way, will help you avoid hypothermia in the heavily air-conditioned rooms that are typical of Australia). Sunglasses are recommended at all times of the year. You should swim only on the calmest parts of the coast, this applies to currents and waves. These sections of the coast are marked with green or yellow-red flags. Monochromatic yellow or red flags mean an increased danger – it is better for inexperienced swimmers not to climb into the water.

You should not walk barefoot through the grass and walk in the parks at dusk – in Australia there are poisonous insects and snakes active at night. You should also be extremely careful when dealing with marine life. When traveling to the states of Queensland and the Northern Territory, it is recommended to use mosquito repellents and protective nets: mosquitoes can be the carriers of such dangerous diseases as Dengue fever and Ross fever.

Before traveling to Australia, it is better to be vaccinated against yellow fever, which is carried by insidious mosquitoes. Vaccination against tetanus, typhoid fever, diphtheria and rubella will be useful, although there are no serious threats to health in the country.

In public places, including in all restaurants and cafes, smoking is prohibited. Alcohol consumption is possible only in certain places and at certain time.

Useful phone numbers

• Embassy of Russia in Canberra: 78 Canberra Avenue, Griffith, tel .: (2) 629-590-33, website.
• Consulate General of the Russian Federation in Sydney: 7-9 Fullerton Street, Woollahra, tel .: (2) 936-353-91, 932-617-02.
• Australia’s free call center service — 013, in Sydney (Visitors’ Center) —923-524-24 or 925-517-88.
• Police, fire service, ambulance and other emergency calls – 000 (from any phone, free of charge); from mobile phones – 000 or 112.

Australian beaches

Australian beaches are worthy of loud praise: the clear waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, the purest sand, developed infrastructure – all this is the perfect combination for relaxing with pleasure. The most populous areas are concentrated on the Gold Coast near Brisbane. The most fashionable local resort – Main Beach with expensive restaurants and a whole range of marine entertainment. Surfers Paradise fully justifies its name: the best place for the conquerors of the waves simply can not be found. Broad Beach is more democratic: it is quieter, more comfortable and, which is important, cheaper.

Rental centers for umbrellas and loungers – a rarity, the average price per set – 15-25 AUD.

Bondi Beach is the center of Sydney parties: idle resort visitors and celebrities huddle in a small area. Safety is paramount: lifeguards are on duty on the shore, coastal waters are protected from sharks with a special net. One of the most beautiful beaches is Cable Beach in the vicinity of the town of Broome with snow-white sand and azure water, almost always warmed up to +25 ° C. But it is better to admire the virgin nature on the islands of the Great Barrier Reef: Lizard, Whitsunday and other beauties seem to have left idyllic postcards.

Surfing

The conquerors of the waves have long considered Australia their second home: only here you can ride on the board at once through two oceans – the Pacific and the Indian. Surfers pile on the southeastern and southern coasts of the continent. Popular destinations are the Gold Coast (the Snapper-Rocks waves are the longest on the planet), Cape Bellarin in Victoria, the beaches of Cape Fleurier in South Australia, Trigg Island near Perth and the beaches of Tasmania Hobart. However, you can surf in Australian and not leaving far from civilization: beautiful waves are caught on the coast of Sydney. Numerous surf schools and a lot of specialized shops work there.

 

A one-day surf course costs from 70 AUD, a three-day intensive course with lectures, group and individual practical classes – from 300 AUD. Some schools offer two-week packages with accommodation in campsites and daily skating on a board under the supervision of an instructor for the 2500-3500 AUD.

Diving

Diving in Australia is a must-have item for everyone who collects vivid impressions. Here both beginners and pros dive, enjoying underwater beauty regardless of the season: if the coast of Cairns from October to May teems with poisonous jellyfish, then around the islands of the Great Barrier Reef is safe all year round. It is these scenic spots that attract divers from all over the world: turtles, stingrays, groupers, nautilus, moray eels, hermit crabs, rare species of sharks and octopuses are found here. Underwater visibility is 10-30 m, the most popular locations are Lizard Islands, Whitsunday, Hyman and Hamilton. In the west, the Ningalu Reef is famous, in the south – the Dangerous Reef. The cost of diving with an instructor in the open sea – 150-300 AUD, integrated coastal courses cost 600-700 AUD.

Shopping

Australia’s business card is precious and semiprecious stones: opals, sapphires, pink diamonds (they are mined only here), pearls. In addition, of course, crafts Aboriginal: the inevitable boomerangs, little things made of wood, earthenware. We also recommend you to pay attention to products made of sheep wool and crocodile leather: sweaters, hats, scarves and other warm accessories, raincoats, hats, shoes and belts.

Gourmets should grab a package of Australian herbal tea, a jar of fruit jam (for example, from cockatoo plums) and spices: mint, anise myrtle, etc. Coffee that is grown in Byron Bay is very popular, King Island cheese is also popular among tourists. Eucalyptus oil and Varan oil will help to overcome the northern ailments, and various products of Australian manufacturers of natural cosmetics, such as soaps, creams and balms, will help preserve the health of the skin. And of course, do not forget about the real uggs – authentic sheepskin boots on a flexible sole.

Sales in Australia are traditionally held twice a year: in June and after the Catholic Christmas. Promotions are often arranged when opening or closing stores: bright signs on the shop windows signal the sale of sales people. Sydney, Melbourne and other megalopolises have outletlets with products of international brands at reduced prices. In small private shops you can also run into discounts at any time of the year.

Mode of operation of stores in different states is different. As a rule, large stores are open from 9:00 to 17:30 on weekdays and from 9:00 to 17:00 on Saturdays. One day a week (Thursday or Friday) they close at 21:00. Some outlets operate on Sunday from 10:00 to 16:00. In large cities there are markets where you can buy almost everything: from food and clothing to souvenirs.

Australian cuisine and restaurants

The main national dish of Australia – fried meat. Everything else – seafood and poultry, exotic fruits and local cheeses – serve only as a kind of complement. A selection of delicacies: shark lips, crocodile meat, opossum fillets, blue crab meat and freshwater oysters. In the country, Asian cuisine with its extremes is popular: the product is either consumed almost raw, or, on the contrary, is processed beyond recognition.

Authentic Australian dessert – “lamington”, doused with chocolate and sprinkled with coconut crumb sponge cake. Local wines are not inferior in quality to the best European varieties, and some beers are even exported to many countries. To get acquainted with the Australian cuisine in all its manifestations, true gourmets will have to travel all over the country: each state has its own signature dish.

On the plantations of Cairns, called “the cup of exotic fruits,” tropical trees from around the world grow and abundantly bear fruit. Here you can taste delicious mangoes, pineapples, bananas, lychee and po.

In Australia, there are establishments operating under the BYO system (bring your own): they do not have a license to trade in alcohol, and therefore visitors are allowed to bring a bottle or two of wine or beer with them. True, the pleasure is not entirely free: you have to pay 2-15 AUD of “cork collection” for each container, but it still comes out cheaper than buying alcohol in a restaurant. Asian eateries are open in major cities, offering generous portions of Indian, Chinese and Japanese hits. Traditional English pubs with meat and beer, as well as vegan and vegetarian places are popular. Snacking in fast food costs 10-15 AUD, lunch in a cafe – at 25-30 AUD per person, dinner at a restaurant with alcohol – 150-160 AUD for two.

Entertainment and Attractions

For most overseas tourists, Australia is an unexplored continent: imagination draws pictures of endless spaces along which kangaroos and koalas randomly move. Well, to some extent this is true: the expanses are really endless and very picturesque, and in honor of funny marsupials even an entire island is named (although there are snow-white beaches, bizarre rocks, and even mini -desert). But the sights in Australia are much more: the original urban architecture, museums and natural wonders deserve the most careful study.

The richest in tourist locations is tireless Sydney. It is easily recognizable by the wavelike arches of the opera house, resembling either a frigate under sail, or a white stone lotus. This city is also recognizable by the iron beams of the Harbor Bridge: locals jokingly nicknamed the world’s largest metal arch “coat rack”. By the edge of the 305-meter TV tower, which offers a magnificent view of the city. And here there is a giant aquarium and Paddington and Belmeyr quarters with festive Victorian architecture.

Canberra has the impressive Parliament building with a mast on its top, the Australian War Memorial with a sculpture garden, Black Mountain Hill with a television tower and the best viewing platform in the city, as well as the National Gallery with a rich collection of Australian art. Acquaintance with Melbourne should start on Federation Square, and then enjoy the dizzying view from the Eureka skyscraper, stroll through the Royal Garden, go to the zoo and tickle your nerves in the Old Prison covered with grim legends.

Darwin is an excellent place to study Aboriginal culture: the Museum of the Northern Territory exhibits vivid examples of folk art, and rock paintings of primitive people are preserved in the surrounding Ubir and Nolanji mountains.

Australia’s abundant wealth is concentrated not only in the cities, but also beyond. The Great Barrier Reef, an immense system of 900 islands and 2,900 individual reefs in the Coral Sea, is ideal for excursions, diving and relaxing on exotic beaches. The red rock of Ayers Rock once served as a place of worship for the aborigines, and today it is impressive in scope and atmosphere: for miles around there is only a ringing silence. Cape Byron, discovered by James Cook, is recognizable thanks to the snow-white lighthouse and incredible sea view. And along the Great Ocean Road, limestone columns jutting out from the sea lined up – the 12 Apostles of Victoria, guarding perhaps the most beautiful Australian coast.

9 things to do in Australia

 

• See the famous Opera in Sydney with your own eyes.
• Visit the Ayers Rock monolith, which at sunset looks at least Martian.
• Do traditional Australian bangui jumping and zorbing to a state of easy disorientation.
• Do not forget about mind-blowing diving at the BBB.
• Look at one or two of the national park.
• Buy a dozen or two boomerangs from the Bushmen.
• In Tasmania, go through the “convict trail” and trace the history of almost every prisoner who once served his time in the famous prison on the island.
• Well, turn to the beach for a day or two, yes. If time remains.
• Add in confidence: the first thing that every new guest from the Northern Hemisphere does in this country is checking which way the water in the sink is spinning.

 

National parks

Australia is called the land of contrasts, promising its guests unforgettable impressions and truly exciting adventures. It is for them that the travelers go to the national parks – full possession of nature, striking a riot of colors, a variety of landscapes and the grandeur of landscapes. Modern megacities peacefully coexist with deserts and dense forests, farms. It is in this continental state that the endemics are represented – koala, kangaroo, emu, and platypus.

The Blue Mountains is a unique natural reserve listed as a UNESCO. Covered with eucalyptus forests, the mountains here from a distance really seem blue. Daintree Reserve is one of the oldest natural parks. In this primeval forest, you can see a variety of animals, including the glowing green frog, possum and glowing mushrooms growing on tree trunks.

Kakadu National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the most wilderness spots in Australia. He is in the management of the Australian Aboriginal and preserved in its original form. Even closer to get acquainted with the centuries-old Aboriginal culture can be in the national park “Namaji” – on its territory people have been living for more than 21 thousand years. Rare animals with intriguing names live here: a wide-toothed rat, a false toad and a marble gadops.

Hunter Valley, located 180 km from Sydney, is famous among lovers of good wine. Sandy slopes and a special microclimate here create excellent conditions for the best Australian vineyards. Canberra National Park, Black Mountain and Eucalyptus Grove also deserve attention.

Holidays and events in Australia

In January, the famous Festival of the city with dances, booze and other indispensable attributes of the holiday takes place in Sydney. And on the last Monday of January, the whole country celebrates Australia Day. In February, they organize a shocking festival of sexual minorities “Mardi Gras”. The second Monday of June is the Queen’s Birthday, and in August they celebrate an unusual and very funny holiday – Darwin Beer Regatta. During it passes a whole series of races of watercrafts built entirely from beer cans and barrels.

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12 unusual types of tourism

What is caravanning and jailoo tourism? Where can you become a farmer for a week or a movie star for an hour? How can you fly free to Mars. Skyskaner tells about the adventures and unusual types of travel, infinitely far from packet tourism. Choose what is closer to you, or offer your options.

1. Rural tourism

Rural tourism returns to the basics. Instead of an alarm clock – cocks, instead of a coffee machine in the office – a cow to be milked, and instead of rubber vegetables from the supermarket – fresh food straight from the garden. You can arrange a rural tour yourself, find a local guide or trust in agencies that specialize in agritourism. Some companies focus on individual regions, others organize adventures for every taste in all corners of the world.

In agriturismo.net they know everything about Tuscan farms for riding enthusiasts, and the American Agrotours is literally ready for everything: from “Take me to places where there are no skyscrapers and cars, I will disconnect the phone and look after the flowers” meat farms in Australia are arranged.” The slogan of the Indian Agri Tourism says: “To change, you need to go back to the roots.” And indeed, India is perhaps the best country in the world for those who want to return to the very roots. And in Israel, the Ministry of Agriculture is engaged in the development of agro-tourism, its website contains 16 ideas of adventure – from fishing to beekeeping.

2. Jailoo tourism

From Kyrgyz “jailoo” is translated as “mountain pasture”. Jailoo-tourists travel to untouched corners of the planet – the mountains and steppes of Asia, the forests of Siberia and North America, the Amazon jungle and reserves of Africa – to forget for a while about the benefits of civilization. You can start from the homeland of this type of tourism – Kyrgyzstan, but do not choose extreme routes if you do not have experience hiking in the mountains. It is safer to find a local guide who takes you to the high mountain pastures between the Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul lakes on the right path. The best time to travel is from May to September, although warm clothes are useful there even in summer.

Jailoo-tourism can be combined with ethnic – stay overnight in a shepherd’s yurt in the Mongolian steppe, settle in a reed hut in a deaf Indonesian village, or stay with a good-natured tribe Dramrayg in northern Tanzania. The “family adopted” traveler lives the daily life of the indigenous population, follows local traditions and rituals and adopts skills such as grazing cattle, making pottery, or making fire not from a cigarette lighter.

3. Kinotourism

The film tourists want to be the characters of their favorite movie for a while, and there are two ways. You can follow in the footsteps of Sherlock Holmes in the UK or rent a red Chevrolet Impala and ride in yellow glasses along the Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas heroes. And you can be right in the scenery of your favorite movie. For example, explore every corner of Tolkien’s Middle-earth in New Zealand, see the alien landscapes of Star Wars in the Tunisian Tatavin, Matmata and Towazar. And Woody Allen fans can arrange a whole “staircase tour” in Europe and sit first on the very staircase at the church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont, where the hero of “Midnight in Paris” was transferred in the 1920s, and then on the Spanish Steps from “Roman Adventures”.

4. Festival tourism

Music lovers practice another kind of tourism – festival. And in Europe for one vacation, you can visit several concerts at once. Many festivals go on for three days, so campgrounds and caravan sites are near the stage. Among the cult musical events are the Spanish Primavera (end of May – early June), the British Glastonbury (end of June) and the Hungarian Sziget in August. You can choose a festival like on the Festicket website.

To some extent, festival tourism includes trips to grand events like the Brazilian or Venetian carnivals, encerro in Pamplona, ​​Oktoberfest or the Edinburgh festival Fringe.

5. Gastronomic tourism

Cooking courses and ethnic restaurants are everywhere, but it is more interesting to get acquainted with the recipes of national cuisines in their homeland. Perhaps the point here is in the setting and perception, but whatever one may say, the masaman curry is tastier in Krabi and the khinkali in Kazbegi. Yes, and for the recipe for the right pizza, you should go to the south of Italy and try to ask the owners of family restaurants to arrange a master class (but you can’t do without basic Italian in this case).

Traveling in France is definitely worth diversifying with acquaintance with cheeses and wines. The “cheese” regions are considered the birthplace of Camembert Normandy and Burgundy, where Napoleon’s favorite cheese was created – the epuas. The perfect pair of soft aromatic cheeses will be wines of Burgundy, Bordeaux and Champagne. And to learn to understand tea, go to the Chinese province of Fujian, famous for its oolongs and red teas, the home of Puer Yunnan or trekking in Sichuan with its green and yellow teas.

6. Ecological tourism

Adherents of this type of tourism are spiritually enriched by being alone with nature. As a rule, eco-tourists serve as a hut in a national reserve, and wild animals serve as neighbors. The goal is to contemplate from a safe distance and do no harm. There is even an international community of ecological tourists who want to benefit the environment during their holidays.

However, ecotourism can be very extreme. Take, for example, the so-called “shark tours”, when you are immersed in a special cage in the sea, where predators already carnivorously grin at all three rows of teeth – entertainment is not for the faint-hearted!

7. Caravaning

Caravans are called motor homes, and it is very convenient to be a homebody and a traveler at the same time. This way of organizing life came up with American immigrants in the 1930s. Moving from place to place, they carried with them folding furniture and household utensils in covered wagons. Gradually, special campsites for caravaners began to appear – such as small communes. And still in the USA and Europe there are a lot of those who are not ready to exchange the trailer for an ordinary apartment or house.

If you are easy going and have always dreamed of embarking on a car trip without stopping in hotels, this is what you need. This type of tourism is also good because it gives complete independence from the timetable of traffic, and with it you can take everything you need, including bicycles, surfboards or downhill skiing.

8. Spiritual tourism

The purpose of spiritual tourism is not so much to change the situation as to change oneself. This is an ascetic kind of travel for those who want to find inner harmony and bring thoughts in order. Such tourists travel to countries with a mild climate – usually to India, Thailand or Indonesia – to practice yoga and spiritual practices in a peaceful atmosphere.

9. Industrial tourism

Who in childhood did not climb into semi-burnt houses and empty construction sites? Urbex (from urban exploration), a type of tourism based on urban research, is called upon to resurrect those quivering feelings. Industrial tourists are digers who study the underground and underground utilities, roofers who walk on rooftops, and stalkers who penetrate abandoned objects, and not only industrial ones. For example, a stalker can go to the ghost town of Kadykchan in the Magadan region or to the prototype of Silent Hill – the town of Centreilia in Pennsylvania, where the underground fire has been burning for more than half a century.

Those who are interested in objects of religion that have lost their sacral significance also have their own tourist movement: postpalomniki find and explore forgotten temples. A separate subspecies of industrial tourism – nuclear. Atomic-era fans go to Hiroshima and Nagasaki, to the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, to the abandoned Pripyat and slowly begin to penetrate into the Fukushima prefecture.

10. Gloomy tourism

It is also called “dark”, “black” or dark tourism. Meaning – traveling to places associated with death, destruction, mysticism and tragedy. “Dark tourists” get impressions, walking through the cemeteries and battlefields, they are attracted by all the sinister and supernatural.

Among the attractions of dark tourism are the former death camp in Auschwitz, 60 km from Krakow, the French ghost town of Oradour-sur-Glane, destroyed during World War II, the place of mass executions of Choeng Ek and other Death Fields in Cambodia. In the US, trips to Alcatraz prison where Al Capone sat are popular. And in Romania, “dark tourists” roam the ruins of the Poenari fortress: historians consider it, and not Bran, the real castle of Dracula.

11. Backpacker Tourism

The purpose of backpacking is the most economical journey. You can identify a backpacker from a distance along the backpack behind your back (and often also on your chest) and the Lonely Planet guide in your hands. Backpackers ride by car or by public transport, and spend the night in hostels, tents or each other – there are special services for this, like kouchsurfing. In developed countries, traditional time is set aside for such tourism – the gap year, the “drop out year” between graduation and the beginning of a career. But to become a backpacker is never too late: a backpack by the shoulders – and more!

12. Space tourism

In contrast to the backpacking of traveling into space – the most expensive form of tourism, it is just like cosmic money to match the name. The world’s first space tourist Dennis Tito in 2001 paid $ 20 million for a flight to the ISS. Now state monopolies on space are in the past, private companies are building their space centers and spacecraft, and some are already selling tickets for future suborbital flights. Virgin offers 2.5 hours in space for $ 250,000, XCOR Aerospace – for $ 95,000.

Another interesting initiative is the Mars One project, whose members can go to Mars for free without a return ticket to establish the first Martian settlement. The first crew of four will fly to Mars as early as 2024, then flights will become regular – once every two years.

 

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Top-15 campings in Israel

Israel has a nice and propitious climate which allows you to spend marvelous time out-of-doors. Therefore, such kind of tourism is very popular and common here. Spending your holiday in a camping gives you a unique opportunity to experience all the peculiarities of life in a new country meanwhile enjoying picturesque scenery.

This is a perfect option for those who want to relax the mind, spend some time in a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Camping in Israel is rather developed, thus it will be easy for you to make a choice. There are many tourism organizations in the country that offer you to spend your leisure time in comfortable conditions. You can find accommodation with electricity, Internet, parking and security.

If you need to decide where to go camping in Israel, first of all you need to familiarize with the list of camping sites located in the most picturesque places. Before the journey you should also clarify what clothes you might need there with you. Also you need to make sure that there are available camping sites for the required dates.

Below you will find a selection of the 15 most popular campsites in Israel.

Camping in Yehudiya reserve

Located in a pictorial place with fresh air and nice atmosphere. There are drinking water sources, security, furniture and showers. It is possible to use your own tents. Camping in Yehudiya gives you a chance to relax being surrounded by unique plants and pure nature.

Camping in Dafnapark

If you want to discover Israel with tent, you should choose camping in Dafnapark. It is located by the river which divides into three bright streams. Besides, there you have an opportunity to relax in spacious pool and visit unusual places. There is a toilet, shower and electricity in the camping territory.

Camping in Hurshat Tal

Hurshat Tal is located in oak grove with breathtaking waterfalls. A reserve where camping is located, has an area of 300 square kilometers. In the center of it there is a lake. The park is a home for rare animals and unique plants. In addition, you can fish in a special pond and have a fun time on amusements in summer.

Ha’maayan camping

Ha’maayan lies near the Hasbani River and is highly comfortable. The territory is equipped with tents and lighting, shower, toilet, shops and a playground. At the same time the prices here are quite affordable.

Dag Al Hadanis campsite

A little bit further down the river Dag Al Hadanis located. It is surrounded by a pecan grove and is also very comfortable. There is a toilet, shops, shower, electricity and a place for barbecue at the disposal of the tourists. Rates are also very affordable here.

Kfar Blum camping

Closer to the center of Israel there is another one unusual place – Kfar Blum. Camping is located not far from Jordan river, in a park with the biggest waterfall, whose melodic splashes complete the atmosphere and beautiful nature. Camping has all the required conditions for a comfortable stay – shower, toilet, shop and bedding.

Hukuh beach camping

Hukuh beach camping is located near the Kinneret lake. It offers tourists two different areas where they can spend the night in a tent. Visitors can use electricity, barbeque and shower. Also there are shops in the territory where you can find things you might need during your stay there. Territory of the camping is rich for picturesque views and is favorably located.

Camping on the coast of Hof Dor

Camping on the coast of Hof Dor. This is a site for those who value comfort, as there are showers, shops, kayak station, refrigerators and a swimming pool in the territory. Camping is located near the shallow bay which is great for swimming.

Ashkelon camping

Ashkelon camping is located in the eponymous national park where the tourists can observe archeological excavations that once took place there. This is a perfect place for those who enjoy unity with nature. The camping has a shower, electricity and a well-kept beach.

Camping at the Bianca beach

Camping at the Bianca beach is located on the shore of the Dead Sea near Kalia. Supplementary to the main facilities, there is a bar, restaurant and a dance floor. Campsite is located in a picturesque place, which appeals for some rest.

Camping Chan EretzHamirdafim

Camping Chan EretzHamirdafim is located near the Jerusalem in the territory of the Judean Desert. Camping has basic amenities such as kitchen, shower and toilet. But its main charm is in breathtaking views and unique landscapes. Here the tourist can really become one with the nature.

Desert Camping Israel

Desert Camping Israel is only in 13 kilometers from Jerusalem. It is a perfect opportunity to see the city and enjoy the Israel nature. In the camping tourists can spend the night in a chateau or a bungalow. Here you can also find a bar, free parking and a sun deck.

Dugit Beach Campsite

Dugit Beach Campsite is on the shores of the Kenneret, which is well known for its unique views. Also here are eucalyptus groves,famous for their special smell and medicinal properties. In the territory of the camping there is 24-hour shop, shower and toilet. But its main advantage is a well-cared-for and picturesque beach.

Kibbutz Palmachim Camping

Kibbutz Palmachim Camping is located near a beautiful beach of the Mediterranean Sea. There are benches, tables, shower and toilet. In addition, a tourist can spend time fishing here or have a walk around the territory, which is considered a reserve.

Sussita Camping

Sussita Camping is not far from EinGev kibbutz. Here a tourist can enjoy a picnic by the water or under picturesque cypresses. In the territory there is a bar, shower, toilet and parking. Quite close to the camping there are many places where a tourist can try some extreme sports: water skiing, surfing or boat trips.

Wild camping in Israel

Another one option often chosen by the travelers is wild camping in Israel. In this case tourists just choose a place where they’d like to spend a night and put up a tent on the available site. It’s perfect for those who love unusual routes, wildlife and recreation in complete solitude.

However before you make a stop you need to make sure that the chosen territory is not someone’s property or does not belong to the armed forces of the country. Also there is a list of objects in the territory of which unauthorized stay is prohibited – for example, in some places on the banks of the Jordan River.

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