Tastes of Culture

The best way to see Queensland is undoubtedly by car. It’s certainly the only place to get to see all of those out of the way place without taking a tour. Super, diesel and unleaded fuel is available from petrol stations and LPG (gas) is also available in populated areas but not always in the remote service stations. Prices vary accordingly depending on place and time. The price always goes up around the weekends and bank holidays so if you are watching your money, it’s a good idea to fill up on a week day.

When trying to choose what rental company to use you should consider a company that gives unlimited kilometers. Larger companies sometimes offer one-way rentals, pick up your automobile in one town and drop it off when you reach your destination, but you need to be sure of any restrictions. 4WD and camper vans are the most popular rentals. A 4WD allows you to get right into the natural wonders that most travelers miss. However, the insurance on these tend to be high and don not cover any off road damage.

Queensland has a few multi lane highways but most major roads are sealed with two lanes. You don’t have to go too far off the beaten track to get onto dirt roads, its quite common if you want to see the countryside. Kangaroos are a common hazard on Australian roads and if you are traveling at any sort of speed, hitting one can make quite a mess of your car, not to mention the kangaroo so be alert when they are most active – dawn and dusk.

Most Australians choose not to travel too much at night because of the hazards caused by animals but if you are on a strict schedule, you may find it necessary so if you are traveling in the dark and a large animal appears in front of you, hit the brakes and dip your lights and only swerve if its safe to do so. Numerous travelers have been killed in accidents caused by swerving to miss animal’s. Sometimes it’s safer for you to hit the animal however traumatic this may be.

Along the east coast in general but especially in country areas, drink driving is a real problem. Serious attempts are being made to address this but the vast area is a disadvantage. You will almost definitely come across a random breath testing station or booze bus somewhere on your travels and more often or not these test for drugs and substance abuse too. If you have a level of blood-alcohol in Australia more than 0.05% be prepared for a hefty fine and the loss of your license. Also there is always a danger of parking fines in major cities and tourist towns so be sure park in the proper place even if it may cost a bit!

If you are ready to vacation in Australia be sure to use the car hire Surfers Paradise has relied on for years. Log onto www.budget.com.au for the best deals available. You can also get a brisbane car rental vacationers have enjoyed while traveling from sight to sight.