One would think that common sense would be enough when travelling in Outback Australia. If you follow these simple advice, then you will not end up as one of the people that leave a bad impression and destroy for other travellers following in your track.
Advice for overseas visitors
What Australians appreciate most in other human beings is to be "friendly". If you’re friendly and helpful, then you’re "fair dinkum".
Shout your mates and be fair dinkum
Buy beer for other people at the pub, or give away some cold beer or soft drink from your Esky at the camp site. You will have a friend for a lifetime. The habit is called "shouting" in Australian.
Say Please and Thank you
Remember to say Please and Thank you. If they smile, smile back. When people talk to you, answer them.
Cultural awareness for English visitors
If you’re a Pom, tread lightly. To loudly comment on the backwardness of Australia in your most high pitched English voice, will not be appreciated.
Social Glue
Smalltalk with people even if you’re bored with the eternal conversation:
- How are ya?
- Good
- Where are you from?
- "Insert country of origin"
- How long have you been in Australia?
- "Insert time you’ve been in Australia"
- Where have you been in Australia?
- "Insert places you’ve been to, preferably many".
- Ah, that’s great. You have seen more of Australia than most Australians.
What do you think of Australia?
- Always give a positive answer
Xenofobia and racism
Avoid to discuss the plight of the Aborigines or the virtues of the new Asian migrants.
Alcohol
Do not throw up from alcohol poisoning before eight o’clock in the evening. Australians find it very odd with people that lie in the gutter spewing at six or seven in the evening.
Mastering the Lingo ( see ’slang’ section)
When two dogs meet each other, they sniff each others scents. When two Australians meet, they test each other if both speak the standard Australian drawl. If you don’t speak perfect Australian slang and with the absolutely "correct" Australian accent, Australians will find it hard or impossible to understand you. Don’t be upset about it. New Zealanders who speak almost the same type of English have a problem to make themselves understood in Australia. Not to speak about British people.....
