There are a lot of stories and misconceptions about what you can expect the first time you visit Australia. For many attending this year’s conference on the Gold Coast, this will be their first trip to the land Down Under, so as a native I thought I’d share some tips and advice before you arrive.

First, the Gold Coast is a region made up of a collection of sprawling towns that connect including Coolangatta, Currumbin, and Surfer’s Paradise. It is just north of the New South Wales border in Queensland, over 1 hour from Brisbane. It is a lush coastal area famous for its beaches. Even though it will be winter here in June, the Gold Coast is a popular winter holiday destination for many Australian families, as the average temperature in June is 11-21 degree Celsius (52-72F), which can be a nice break from the colder weather in the south.

As it will be winter you won’t have to worry about the snakes and spiders. The first thing most people think about when they think about Australia are the dangerous animals that are all trying to kill you. The reality is that these are rare events and Australians tend to 

worry more about swooping magpies (only in October/November) than spiders and snakes. There are plenty of bush walks (hikes) you can do around the Gold Coast where you might encounter some of the local and unique Australian wildlife, just watch out for drop bears. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (towards the south of the Gold Coast) offers opportunities to meet koalas, kangaroos and even crocodiles in a safe environment.

Australian English can be difficult to understand as there are a lot of idioms and slang used as part of the daily. Fortunately, Aussies take pride in their linguistic idiosyncrasies, so don’t be afraid to ask if you don’t understand. Any true Aussie relishes the chance to explain Aussie terms. Mostly we just shorten words (Avo for avocado, Arvo for afternoon) but there are other terms, such as “wearing budgie smugglers” that I’ll leave for you to discover on your own. Despite its use in many films and shows, “G’day” is not as commonly used greeting as you might expect, and you are more likely to hear “cheers” as a thank you or a goodbye (or both at once).

Coffee culture is strong in Australia. Aussie coffee drinkers tend to avoid the chains and go to one of a myriad of small cafes and hole-the-wall coffee places that are everywhere and offer some of the best coffee in the world. If unsure of where to go, don’t be afraid to stop a local in the street and ask them where the best place to get coffee is, most will be happy to help.

Australia, by and large, is a safe place and Aussies love their reputation as a friendly nation and good hosts, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need directions, advice, etc. Given how long it takes to get here, make sure to make the most of your time in Australia.

Cheers,

Dan