Brisbane
Population:
2.04 million
Time zone:
GMT +10 hours.
Language:
English is the official language but you'll find that it's spoken in the typical Aussie laid-back style. Pockets of other languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Irish and Vietnamese are also spoken in Brisbane.
Dialling codes:
+61 to dial Australia followed by 7 for all Brisbane codes.
Electricity
240V which is the same as in the UK, but you will need an adapter plug.
Money:
Australian Dollars. Cash machines are found throughout the Central Business District and South Bank as well as less frequently elsewhere, and you can exchange money at banks.
Costs:
There is good and bad news here, as beer and coffee are very reasonably priced, although taxis and eating out are on the expensive side. Look for places that let you bring your own wine to enjoy a meal out on the cheap, it's what the locals do! You could look for self catered accommodation to really save some cash, or use the free barbecues in some of the parks to rustle up a cheap meal and maybe even make some friends too!
Tipping:
Tipping is not the norm in Brisbane, and many places outside the hospitality industry forbid employees from taking tips. Tips can be left at your discretion, obviously, but most locals will only leave something if the service has really impressed.
Local customs:
Most Brisbane residents are fervent anti-smokers and there is a pretty wide-reaching smoking ban as well, so check signs and ask people near you if they mind, and you'll avoid the "aggro" as they might say.
Safety:
The greatest problem in Brisbane is the heat of the sun, so make sure you take plenty of sun cream and cover up during the hottest hours of the day.
Health:
There are no specific vaccines you must have but check with your doctor before you go to make sure everything is up to date. Australia has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK so emergency hospital treatments are usually covered. Ambulances aren't covered though so travel insurance is a must, particularly if you're heading out of the city to explore the natural side of the area.
Entry:
You need to apply online for an electronic visa here before you visit Brisbane. This is a free service so there's no excuse!