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Our Journey Path - South West Australia
Our journey started in the wine country of Barossa Valley.
From there we travel West to Coober Pedy, looking for
opals. I continue into the Outback, ending in the Wild Frontier
town of Kalgoorlie. From there I take the train to
Perth, and carry on to the Karijini National Park.
Our trip ended in Exmouth, with a magical swim with some whale
sharks.
On The road
By Bus
Bus can be cheap and convenient way to see the country. Greyhound
Pioneer Australia and McCafferty offer passes with unlimited
stops between various destinations in Australia.
For more information see: www.greyhound.com.au
or www.mccaffertys.com.au
By camper van
For those planning to stay in Australia longer than a few
weeks it's worth considering buying a car or camper van. Many
travellers trawl the car markets and hostel notice boards
for something that will get them and there gear around Australia,
and as long as you don't land a real turkey, you may even
get back what you paid for it when you leave. Many travellers
in places like Sydney are looking for a quick sale and are
willing to part with camping and cooking gear, bikes, and
other essentials to fund their next trip. There is a car market
in Kings Cross aimed at travellers, but if you know what you
are doing you can pick up a bargain anywhere. The RTA (Roads
& Traffic Authority) registers vehicles for new owners.
By air
The distances involved when travelling around Australia are
huge, and flying can be attractive if time is a factor. The
major airlines - Quantas and Ansett - offer various passes
aimed at backpackers. Quantas' Boomerang pass must be purchased
overseas, whilst the Back packers pass and Ansett Kangaroo
pass can only be purchased in Australia.
See: www.qantas.com.au
& www.virginblue.com.au
By train
Although this is not the fastest way to travel around Australia
it can be a good way to see some scenery on the way. The networks
are state run and passes (with some restrictions) are available
overseas to non-Australian citizens.
Bus tours
There are many tour operators offering various all-inclusive
trips around Aus, such as Oz Experience and can be easily
found in the multitude of backpackers centres in the major
cities with the usual cocktail of partying and sightseeing
See : www.ozexperience.com
Hitch-hiking
Lots of people hitch in Aus, and there are ample opportunities
especially with truckers and backpackers. It's a cheap way
to get about and often great for meeting other travellers
but never 100% safe in any country.
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