Australia

Australia immediately conjures images of the Sydney Opera House, the Great Barrier Reef, big-wave surfing, miles of Outback and a rather strange, and endearing, assortment of animals. While the country’s main cities offer charm, glamour, unique festivals, a well-preserved historical heritage, fabulous beaches and fun events, it’s also a land of immense contrast and captivating nature. The nation offers something for just about everyone – from water lovers, desert wanderers and canyon climbers, to arts and culture buffs, historians, and foodies. The country’s vast size makes it almost impossible to take it all in during a single visit, but you can pick and choose a perfect holiday according to your personal preferences.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Australian Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: AUD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1, $2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Qantas, Virgin Australia 
International Airports: Sydney Airport, Melbourne Airport, Brisbane Airport 
Domestic Airports: Perth Airport, Adelaide Airport, Cairns Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Australian cuisine is diverse, influenced by Aboriginal, European, Asian, and Middle Eastern cultures. Highlights include seafood like barramundi and prawns, BBQ (barbecue), meat pies, Vegemite, and ANZAC biscuits.

Drinks: Australian wines, craft beers,rum and flat whites. 

Tipping: Optional, 10% if service is exceptional 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: Varies by region 

Summer: 

Average highs: 25-30°C 
Average lows: 15-20°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: 15-20°C 
Average lows: 5-10°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Australia depends on the region. Generally, spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type I 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Singapore

Located on the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, this unique city-state consists of mainland Singapore as well as numerous smaller islands covering a total area of about 640 square kilometres. With its strong Chinese, Malay, Indian and western influences, this metropolis offers a dazzling melting pot of diverse cultures, exotic cuisine and a range of architectural styles. This multicultural population has resulted in a number of national cultural districts, such as Chinatown with its impressive Hindu shrines and temples adorned with marigold garlands. These pockets of traditional culture stand in stark contrast to the rows of glitzy state-of-the-art malls and futuristic skyscrapers. With all of this variety on offer, it is easy to see why famous natural historian William Hornaday described this remarkable city as 'the handiest and most marvellous city [he] ever saw'.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Singapore Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: SGD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100, $1000 
Coins: 5¢, 10¢, 20¢, 50¢, $1 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Singapore Airlines, Scoot, SilkAir 
International Airports: Singapore Changi Airport 
Domestic Airports: None 

Road: 

Driving on the: Left 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: No 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Singaporean cuisine is a blend of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western influences. Signature dishes include Hainanese chicken rice, laksa, chili crab, and satay. The city-state is also renowned for its hawker centers, offering a variety of affordable and delicious street food. 
Drinks: Notable local drinks include tehtarik (pulled tea), kopi (local coffee), and sugarcane juice. 
Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Approximately 2340 mm 
Average temperature: 27°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 31°C 
Average lows: 24°C 

Winter: 

Singapore has a tropical climate, so it does not experience distinct winter seasons. 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Singapore is from February to April, during the dry season, to avoid heavy rainfall.


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Singapore does not have distinct winter and autumn seasons. 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type G 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


Finland

Finland is a fascinating and beautiful European country bordered by Sweden, Norway and Russia. Any Finnish travel experience will be largely determined by the seasons. Winter is a time of perpetual darkness, magnificent frozen lakes and the glorious Northern Lights. In summer vast green natural landscapes are bathed in the light of the midnight sun. Enormous spreads of virtually untouched natural wilderness provide a playground for trekkers, mountain-bikers, skiers and fishermen. Reindeer roam free when they aren’t pulling sledges or being served up on the dinner table. This natural wonderland lies on the doorstep of phenomenally innovative modern cities offering cosmopolitan living, while the surrounding smaller towns are home to quaint wooden churches, historic castles and quirky museums brimming with cultural artefacts.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: Euro 
Symbol: € 
ISO code: EUR 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 
Weekends: Closed 
Public Holidays: Yes (limited hours) 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: Finnair 
International Airports: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport 
Domestic Airports: Turku Airport, Tampere-Pirkkala Airport, Oulu Airport 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

Finnish cuisine is known for its simplicity, freshness, and focus on natural flavors. Traditional dishes include salmon, herring, potatoes, and rye bread. Finnish cuisine often incorporates berries, mushrooms, and dairy products. Notable local drinks include Finnish vodka (such as Koskenkorva and Finlandia) and Finnish craft beers. 
Tipping: 0-10% 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: Varies by region 
Average temperature: 0°C 

Summer: 

Average highs: 20°C 
Average lows: 10°C 

Winter: 

Average highs: -5°C 
Average lows: -15°C 

Best time to visit: 

The best time to visit Finland is from June to August, during the summer months when the weather is mild and the days are long. Winter is also popular for activities like skiing and seeing the Northern Lights. 


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

 Summer and Spring

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type C, Type F 
Voltage (V): 230V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50Hz 

*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


United States of America

The sheer size of the US prevents any kind of all-encompassing statement about the typical American experience. From the state-of-the-art skyscrapers of New York City to the scenic country lanes of New England, the United States of America is a place of astonishing beauty and extraordinary diversity. Nothing can remotely prepare you for your first glimpse of the glorious Golden Gate Bridge, the glistening Empire State building, the neon lights of Las Vegas, or the iconic Statue of Liberty. Not to mention the natural treasures on offer - the country’s beautiful national parks are home to some of the world’s most treasured wildlife and landscapes; the west and east coasts are strewn with spectacular beaches, and the Rockies provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. In fact, it is a country of such epic proportions that you could easily spend a lifetime in the US and still feel like you have barely scratched the surface.


Banking and Currency

Currency 

Local currency: United States Dollar 
Symbol: $ 
ISO code: USD 
Subunit: Cent 
Banknotes: $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100 
Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢ 

Banking 

Card Transactions: Yes 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes 
Diner’s club: Yes 

Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 
Weekends: Varies by bank 
Public Holidays: Yes, varies by bank 
Foreign exchange services: Yes


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 

Main airlines: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines 
International Airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), O'Hare International Airport (ORD) 
Domestic Airports: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Denver International Airport (DEN) 

Road: 

Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: No 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 

Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 

Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: Yes 

Water: 

Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 

Can you drink the tap water: Yes 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes 
Ice: Yes 
Meat: Yes 
Street food: Yes 

Local cuisine: 

North American cuisine varies widely, with influences from Native American, European, Asian, and African cultures. Common dishes include hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, barbecue, seafood, and various regional specialties such as Tex-Mex and New England clam chowder. Notable local drinks include cola, craft beer, bourbon, and wine. 

Tipping: 15-20% 


Climate and Weather

Annual Rainfall:

  • Varies by region:
  • Pacific Northwest (Seattle, WA): ~1,500 mm (60 inches)
  • Southwest (Phoenix, AZ): ~200 mm (8 inches)
  • Southeast (Miami, FL): ~1,400 mm (55 inches)
  • Northeast (New York, NY): ~1,200 mm (47 inches)

Average Temperature:

  • Varies by region:
  • Pacific Northwest (Seattle, WA): 11°C (52°F)
  • Southwest (Phoenix, AZ): 24°C (75°F)
  • Southeast (Miami, FL): 24°C (75°F)
  • Northeast (New York, NY): 12°C (54°F)

Summer:

  • Average highs: 20-40°C (68-104°F)
  • Average lows: 10-28°C (50-82°F)

Winter:

  • Average highs: -1 to 25°C (30-77°F)
  • Average lows: -5 to 15°C (23-59°F)

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit North America depends on your plans. Summer is perfect for outdoor activities and warm weather, while winter is best for skiing and snow sports. Fall features stunning foliage, and spring offers pleasant weather and blooming flowers. Timing depends on the experiences you're after.


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 

Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 

Winter and Autumn 

Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: Yes 

General 

Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: Yes 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

  


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: No 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type: Type A, Type B 
Voltage (V): 120V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 60Hz 

*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


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