Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Insurance
Sign up for a travel-insurance policy covering theft, loss and medical problems.
Some policies exclude designated 'dangerous activities' such as scuba diving, parasailing, or even bushwalking. En-
sure your policy fully covers you for activities of your choice. Check you're covered for ambulances and emergency
medical evacuations by air.
Worldwide travel insurance is available at
www.lonelyplanet.com/travel_services
.
Internet Access
Internet cafes are located across WA but are becoming less prevalent with the growth of smartphones and other internet-
enabled mobile devices. Many backpacker hostels and public libraries offer connections. In smaller towns visit the
Community Resource Centre. The cost ranges from around $5 an hour in Perth to $10 an hour in locations that are more
remote.
The best bets for free wi-fi connections are public libraries and cafes. Wi-fi is becoming more prevalent in accom-
modation; it's sometimes free in hostels but is often charged for in caravan parks and hotels.
Legal Matters
Police have the power to stop your car and see your licence (you're required to carry it), check your vehicle for road-
worthiness, and compel you to take a breath test for alcohol.
First-time offenders in possession of small amounts of illegal drugs are likely to receive a fine rather than go to jail,
but a conviction may affect your visa status. If you remain in Australia after your visa expires, you will officially be
classified as an 'overstayer' and could face detention and expulsion, and be prevented from returning to Australia for a
period of up to three years.
Maps
Tourist-information offices usually have serviceable town maps. For more detailed information, the
Royal Automobile
Club of WA
(RACWA;
www.rac.com.au
)
has road maps available (including downloadable route maps). UBD pub-
lishes a handy
South West & Great Southern
book.
Hema Maps
(
www.hemamaps.com.au
)
Best for the north, especially the dirt roads.
Landgate
(
www.landgate.wa.gov.au
) State-wide maps and topographical maps for bushwalking.
