The first time I went to over to the Oceania, I didn’t stop in Australia. I went directly to New Zealand. The second time around, I made the decision to stop in Sydney and Melbourne.
The first time I did was research if Australia requires a Visa. Yes it does and here is the link for you to apply https://www.border.gov.au/Trav/Visi/Visi
The plan was to do a 48-hour layover in Sydney before heading and Melbourne after leaving New Zealand. Below is my take of Australia.
- Australian Government Immigration and Border Control is moving towards a kiosk system for entry and exit. In Sydney, I went to an agent. However, in Melbourne, I was not given an option. I had to use the kiosk. It was fast and easy. The only downside was no entry stamp on my passport.
- Australia is expensive when it comes to meals. My breakfast cost $35 AUD and I had an omelette and latte in Melbourne.
- Melbourne has a great tram system that is free to get around the CBD (Central Business District)
- If your connecting to Sydney from another domestic city in Australia and traveling internationally, it is an interesting ride. It takes about 15 minutes from the domestic to international terminal. I now understand the three hours layover between domestic and international.
- I fell in love with Sydney maybe it has more to see and do. The Sydney Harbour, Bridge climb, opera house, zoo, the jet boat. I am more of a thrill seeker. Read all about it https://www.internationalcaty.com/48-hours-sydney/
- I have no idea at the nightlife in Sydney or Melbourne. I am mellow person. Finding a nice restuarant and enjoying my dinner is nightlife.
Lastly, please factor jetlag and being in the southern hemisphere. That 15 hour time difference and a day ahead is a killer especially when you live in the East Coast. I no longer said yesterday, today, or tomorrow. I just gave an exact date.