What does this mean for travelers? What does this mean for travelers? We answer the questions that many people ask themselves and examine the ways in which travelers can contribute to Australia’s recovery.
Should you go to Australia now?
Yes, but you should make a well-informed decision. Australia is a large country with many different climates and geographies. There is a lot of information about the regions that have been affected. You can find the most recent fire information in each state and territory.
This summer, the main areas affected were coastal New South Wales as well as Victoria. Other regions in South Australia include Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island.
The air quality was also affected, and this has caused serious respiratory problems for those who suffer from it. News reports have shown that Sydneysiders and Melburnians are wearing P2 masks when they go outside due to the thick bushfire smoke.
Change your travel plans if necessary.
You should avoid visiting areas that are affected by the floods. Instead, it would be best if you considered traveling to another part of Australia. Hobart, Tasmania, is hosting the annual festival MONA FEMA. Outback New South Wales will be putting on their cowboy boots to attend the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Perth is getting weird at this summer’s Fringe World.
Holidaymakers are looking for alternative camping or lodging options in the area. Some towns are still not accessible, like the isolated hamlet Mallacoota.
Travel information for
You can rely on reliable on-the-ground information. It is widely shared through an up-to-date emergency app, local websites (specific websites based on where you are in Australia, whether it’s Victoria, South Australia, or Tasmania), television reports, radio stations, and word-of-mouth (known as the Bush Telegraph in Australia). The Fire Danger rating is posted in local areas and on large roadside signage. It’s also included in media reports. Australians are known for their straight-talking style, and the danger levels range from ‘low to catastrophic.’ You should evacuate if the warning level is very high or if you are told to. Avoid putting yourself in danger or causing more problems for the firefighters.
Spend your tourist dollars where you want to
After a place has been cleared of fire danger, it will require the financial contribution of tourists to help them get back on track. Ask around and help out if you can. Find out what communities need your help by checking the Empty Eskies initiative.
Should you avoid Australia this year?
Australia has temporarily suspended its ‘Matesong with Kylie Minogue’ New Year’s campaign. The way Australia responded to the national catastrophe is the best advertisement. In the last few weeks, Australians have shown that they are remarkably resilient and generous and are working hard to save an incredible country.
Australia Tourism, the leading proponent of travel to Oz, explains that: “It’s more important than ever for Australian tourism providers to be supported, whether they are in regions unaffected or those who will recover in the months and year to come from bushfires. Keep visiting Australia to help the Country, its communities, and the tourism industry. Rearranging a trip in order to support communities during the next few months “. This is one way to help if you are unable to travel to an area affected by bushfires.
You might want to consider visiting Australia this year if you haven’t planned it before.
Travel responsibly
offset flights but also follow the advice of going slow and staying longer. Consider taking your family to Australia for a trip that will last a lifetime.
When you are on the ground, look for ways to travel that will reduce your carbon footprint. For example, hiking, sailing, or canoeing your way through Australia’s unique countryside. Learn from Australia’s indigenous people, who have lived in harmony with the Country for thousands of years.
Take public transport, hire an electric car, stay in greener accommodation, eat and shop locally, avoid waste, and bring your reusable bottles and cutlery… The list goes on.
Many Australians are already on the road to a low-carbon future. The wildfires in 2020 will hopefully inspire the rest of Australia to accept the reality of climate change and listen to their Elders. They can then retool industries and economies for a prosperous and safe future.
Should I travel at all?
It is a personal choice, and more people are beginning to question the ethics of long-distance flights. Stopping carbon emissions and reversing climate change requires complex, multifaceted, and constantly developing solutions. There is not enough Earth to allow us all to continue living as we do in Western countries. Collective action is needed. Many people are currently fighting for global consensus and a path towards a greener, more sustainable future.
There are many ways to reduce your impact on the environment. One of these is to avoid flying. Investigate the local options and educate those who are not convinced about the urgency of the climate change issue.