While it may feel awkward at first, attempting the local language or slang goes a long way when navigating a city and interacting with people. Practice these basic phrases to get started:

• Thongs = flip flops
• Bum bag = fanny pack
• Togs/swimmers = bathing suit
• Capsicums = peppers
• Ketchup = tomato sauce
• Chips = fries
• Lollies = candy
• Boot = trunk
• Fortnightly = every 2 weeks

Australia and New Zealand are bucket-list destinations for a reason. They’re fast-paced, laid-back, natural, and modern all in one. Here are more expert tips to help you understand the ins and outs of the South Pacific and feel like a true local:

• Māori: Māori culture is the customs and practices of the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand that still is a part of Eastern Polynesian culture today! You’ll witness glimpses of it in the language, TV, hangi feasts, or performances in NZ.
• Island Prices: Australia and New Zealand are expensive. For example, a McDonald’s value meal in Australia may be $8 AUD, versus a $4 USD in the U.S. Okay here’s another one: $10 AUD for a bag of grapes.
• Size Matters: Australia is larger than all of the European Union countries, so remember that it takes time to get from place to place in a country of this magnitude!
• Kangaroos and Koalas: You’ll see these animals in the wild or at a national park, but do not expect to see a kangaroo or koala hopping around the city.
• The Sun: The sun is extremely strong in Australia and New Zealand. Think you’re stronger than the sun? Think again and go re-apply that sunscreen, bring a hat, and stay hydrated.
• Kiwis: Kiwis, or locals in New Zealand, are extremely friendly and will go out of their way to help you, expecting nothing in return. Take this opportunity to meet new people and learn more about the culture!
• Opposite Weather: Australia & New Zealand’s winter is our summer, and their summer is our winter. From December to March it’s hot and tropical, and from April to November it’s a bit cooler.
• Slow Internet: Connection isn’t always reliable in the South Pacific, and while WiFi may be available in hotels or restaurants, it may come at a price. Take this opportunity to go off the grid!
• LOTR: After the LOTR trilogy, tourism boomed in NZ. You’ll find LOTR-branded items everywhere and articles about why NZ is a top destination. Once you see the scenery (and maybe a LOTR film), you’ll understand why.

Get ready for some of the world’s best lamb, steak, and seafood. Oh, and did we mention Australia’s national beverage is beer? We’re not sure what more you could want… but read on for tips, tricks, and delicacies you must try while in the South Pacific!

• The Lot Burger: This traditional Aussie burger comes with a fried egg, pickled beetroot, and a chunk of grilled pineapple
• The Kiwi Burger: Basically New Zealand’s take on the Lot Burger. Maybe compare the two and see which pans out best?!
• Tim Tams: There’s a correct way to eat TIm Tams: Bite off the top left and bottom right corner of the tim tam, then dip your tim tam into a mug of tea, then drink your tea through the tim tam like a chocolate straw.
• Meat Pies and Sausage Rolls: Both essential staples of the post-bar-hopping diet, these are usually served from food trucks or bakeries and best enjoyed way-too-late at night.
  Prawns: Try to avoid the ‘shrimp on tha bahbie!’ cry, and instead acknowledge that the thing to eat here is prawn, not shrimp.
• Vegemite: This dark brown Australian food paste made from leftover brewers’ yeast isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but you’ll regret not trying it at least once!
• Kangaroo: Not suited for vegetarians. Kangaroo is actually a common carnivore dish in Australia, you may find it in sausage, taco, or burger form!
• Forget Foster’s: Instead of a Foster’s, the real beer of choice in South Pacific is Tooheys or Victoria Bitter. Give it a go after a long day at the beach.
• Pāua: Feelin’ fancy? Pāua is a rare Māori dish unique to New Zealand that can go for upwards of $100 USD.
• New Zealand Dairy: The dairy scene in NZ is said to rival even Italy’s best gelato. Visit a dairy (corner store) to get artisan ice cream by the scoop that’s sure to satisfy your instagram and your taste buds!