Australia is a big country that is somewhat sparsely populated. The main international airports are Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. There are plenty of connections available to the US. Flights are usually heavily booked, so plans have to be made well in advance to be assured of discount tickets.
Discount airfares can be found easily if booked earlier and at times when the rush is less. Off peak times during the middle of the week, like Tuesdays and Wednesdays, are a good time to attain discount airline tickets. Cheap tickets are hard to come by during weekends, school holiday periods or at other times such as during major sporting events. Booking as far in advance as possible is wise because as planes fill, the prices go up. There is easily a difference of $200 when booked several months ahead. Ticket prices may range from $800 – $1500 depending on the dates of travel. It is advisable to be careful when dealing with cheap tickets. Some are tickets are non-refundable. There are some where the money is refundable when cancelled.
Discounts in different fares are available for students. Full time students need to show a student ID card. With their school ID card, they can get an International Student ID Card (ISIC, http://www.isiccard.com). Possessing this gives many benefits like discounts on airfare, rail and bus fares. There are also other discounts that can be availed like discounts at museums, theatres and other attractions. The card costs $22. Discounts are also available for the youth. People of the age of 26 or younger qualify for the International Youth Travel Card, which costs the same and carries the same benefits. Teachers qualify for the International Teacher Card which costs the same price and gives the same benefits. All these cards are available in the US from Council Travel, STA, and Travel CUTS.
In Australia, purchasing either an International YHA Card or Backpacker Resorts VIP Card gives discounts on not only hostel accommodation, but on other things like transport, tours, services, entry fees and sometimes meals.
There are a number of options with respect to staying in Australia. Here “hotel” generally means a pub or bar. Although hotels offer decent rooms, the majority of them are primarily places to drink, so the stay may not be pleasant. The rates are usually around $50 or $60. There are also a number of bed and breakfasts and farmsteads where you can join in with farm life. Some bed and breakfast places are very affordable, and cost around $30 per night. There are excellent hostels and caravan parks that offer accommodation in the form of permanent on-site vans, cabins, campervan facilities and tent spaces. There are also a number of self-catering apartments available in the city areas, and cabins and cottages in country areas.
By: Kristy Annely
About the Author:
Australia Travel provides detailed information on Australia Travel, Australia Travel Packages, Australia Travel Guides, Australia Travel Insurance and more. Australia Travel is affiliated with Australia Travel Visas [http://www.e-AustraliaVisa.com].
