# data[].attributes.headline
15 Things to Know Before Traveling To Canada

# data[].attributes.subject
15 Things to Know Before Traveling To Canada

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Thinking about taking a trip to Canada in the near future? With bustling cities and wondrous national parks, why wouldn't anyone want to take in everything this country has to offer!

Canada might share a border with the USA but in many ways Canada is very different from its neighbor. So, before you plan your trip to Canada there are a few things you should know.

15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

1. Canada is a Big Country!

In fact, Canada is the second largest country in the world, right after Russia.

Don't expect to be able to cover most of Canada in just a few weeks. Canada is huge and traveling from one city to the next means traveling long distances. So if you only have a limited amount of time you are better off choosing one or two provinces of Canada and focusing on all the things there are to see there.

Also keep in mind that Canadian cities are very spread out. So when you are booking a hotel or AirBnb that seems to be close to the main sights or a bus or train station, double check the distances. And yes, a hotel in one of the suburbs might be much cheaper, but keep in mind that those suburbs often feel like a separate city with their own shopping malls, parks, supermarkets, etc. Commuting from there to the main sights can be a pain and no, you definitely won't be able to walk there like you might have gotten used to in many European cities.

Just to emphasize how big Canada really is: the country spans 6 time zones! It is made up of 10 provinces and three territories and if you want to see a good chunk of it during your trip I would recommend renting a car

. There are some scenic train routes or you can go on an organized tour

, but in general a car will get you the furthest.

Canada Fun Fact: Canada has the largest coastline in the world!

2. Be Prepared for Canada's Weather

The most important packing tip for Canada: bring layers!

Even if you visit Canada in summer it can get chilly at night in the mountains and the weather just varies a lot from place to place.

The British Columbia Coast (Canada's western coastline) has milder temperatures in winter but if you are anywhere else in Canada in winter, expect it to get cold... Very cold! Bring a warm woolen hat (Canadians call it a toque), thick gloves and a scarf to wrap around your face.

Canada's lowest recorded temperature was -81.4 degrees Fahrenheit (-63 C) in 1947!

Canada Fun Fact: In Newfoundland, Canada, the Atlantic Ocean sometimes freezes so people play hockey on it!

3. Canada Has Two Official Languages

A majority of Canadians speak English as their first language, but French, Canada's second official language, is the mother tongue of about 20% of the Canadian population.

And with Canada being such a multicultural society you will find different levels of proficiency in those languages, many different accents and numerous other languages spoken.

French is the dominant language in the province of Quebec. But, the Quebecois twang and slang is a world away from the Parisian French you may have learnt in school.

4. Tipping in Canada

Tipping in Canada is similar to tipping in the USA.

When you are receiving services from waiters, hairdressers, cab drivers, hotel employees, and others, you are expected to give a tip. Although tipping isn't mandatory, in most cases a tip in the range of 15% to 20% is the standard.

5. Be Prepared to Have Sales Tax Added to Your Bills

Canada adds a federal sales tax to all goods and services. And on top of that most provinces also have their own tax. This means that, depending on where you are in Canada, your bill could come with up to about 15% taxes.

So when you buy something in a store, the price you see on the label is not the final price. But also expect these taxes to be added to your restaurant bills, hotel bills, etc.

Just like the Americans, Canadians love their promotions, sales and special offers. Therefore always compare prices before you buy! For example, gas prices can vary significantly from station to station and they change almost daily.

Note: There once was a tax refund program for visitors. This program, however, was dropped in 2007, so the taxes you pay while you're in Canada stay in Canada.

6. Canadians are Polite

Canadians have a reputation for being polite. They generally behave very well in public and anything considered "disruptive" or "offensive" is frowned upon. Cutting in line, making a scene, catcalling, loitering, littering, being drunk in public... just don't do it anywhere, but definitely not in Canada!

Canadians are known for their tolerance and are very nonconfrontational. To some they might come across as somewhat reserved and they will say sorry even if there is absolutely no need to apologize for anything!

7. You Can Expect Good Customer Service in Canada

Similar to the USA Canada is a consumer society and that does mean that the customer is normally king.

Most stores open seven days a week and close late at night. Restaurants cater to every possible diet and waiters tend to be friendly and attentive.

There are toll-free numbers to talk to customer service representatives and whatever service you need will usually works just fine.

8. Driving in Canada

Especially when you drive to Canada from the USA it's good to know that speed limits are different in Canada. So before you start driving, check what the local speed limits are!

Like in most countries mobile phones must be used hands-free when driving and in Canada it is also illegal to smoke in a car if you are with a minor.

Driving conditions can get extremely hazardous in winter. Make sure you have a charged mobile phone and an emergency kit when you head out in snowy weather. And if your car isn't ready for winter driving, consider renting a car that is better equipped.

Canada Fun fact: Canada has fewer people in its entire country than Tokyo has in its metropolitan area!

9. You Will Need Health Insurance

Canada might be well known for its excellent healthcare system, but that's only for Canadians.

If you get injured while visiting Canada and don't have adequate health insurance you can be presented with huge medical bills.

So before you travel to Canada make sure you have travel insurance that covers any medical expenses in Canada!

10. The Legal Drinking Age in Canada is 18 or 19

Depending on the province, the legal drinking age in Canada is either 18 or 19. The drinking age also applies to buying liquor and beer, which in most parts of Canada is at specially designated liquor and beer stores, not in grocery or convenience stores.

Because the legal drinking age in Canada is lower than in the USA you will find a lot of young Americans just across the border looking for a party.

11. Make Sure You Have The Right Travel Documents

Unless you are a US citizen you will normally need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Canada. What you need depends on what passport you hold so make sure to check this long before your travel date.

A Canada ETA is mandatory for all visa-free nationals except Americans. You will need to get this before you board your flight to Canada. Getting your ETA is a simple online process though which takes only a few minutes to complete.

12. Emergency Information

Hopefully you won't need this, but the phone number for contacting emergency services, including the police, medical services, and firefighters in Canada is 911.

13. Kilometers, Celsius and Liters

Unlike neighboring USA, Canadians use the metric system. Well, in theory.

In practice, it's a bit of a mix. Distance and speed you will see posted in kilometers, but if you ask a Canadian how tall he is he'll answer in feet and inches. And his weight, if he'll tell you, will be in pounds.

For the weather Canadians use Celsius but when it comes to baking they tend to switch to Fahrenheit.

And if you are driving and need to stop for gas, keep in mind that the prices are per liter, not per gallon.

Also Read: Tips for Driving Abroad for the First Time

14. Tim Hortons Is a Must-Visit

Tim Hortons is an institution in Canada and you simple can't miss it. That is, because it's everywhere!

Nearly every town in Canada, no matter how small, has a Tim Hortons. It's a coffee, sandwich and donut shop chain, named after a hockey player.

If you are looking for a cheap coffee or a snack, go to your nearest 'Timmies' and skip the Starbucks!

Canadians either love or hate Tim Hortons but as a traveler stop there at least once to form your own opinion.

15. Explore Canada's Nature!

Yes, Canada has cool, modern and popular cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. With lots of culture, good food and plenty of things to do they make for good destinations, but Canada's true beauty is outside of its cities.

Because of Canada's size and relatively small population, most of the country is wild and unspoilt.

Canada Fun fact: Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world's lakes combined.

There are huge areas of pristine, unspoiled wilderness waiting to explore. Whether it is tramping across a glacier in the Rocky Mountains, hiking through coastal rainforests on Vancouver island or canoeing through Ontario's lakes - Canada's great outdoors can't be missed!

If you love outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, canoeing, skiing, fishing, bird watching, etc. you will be in your element in Canada.

Canada has so many national parks that offer great activities and incredible views. So at least try to fit in one or two of them when traveling to Canada!

And there you have it, 15 useful things to know before traveling to Canada. I hope you enjoy your time in Canada and get to see as much as you can of this large and beautiful country!
Also Read:
Like this article about things to know before traveling to Canada? Pin it!
This post about things to know before traveling to Canada contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using those links it helps support Spend Life Traveling. This way we can continue publishing content for you. Thanks!

Author: Sanne Wesselman
A traveler, wanderer, digital nomad and entrepreneur. Owner of marketing company A to Z Marketing ( Atozmarketing.eu).
I spend most of my time living and working abroad and use this blog to share some of my international experiences and travel tips.

Related Articles

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Thinking about taking a trip to Canada in the near future? With bustling cities and wondrous national parks, why wouldn't anyone want to take in everything this country has to offer! Canada might share a border with the USA but in many ways Canada is very different from its neighbor.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Top 10 facts

1. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, but it makes its own laws. The Parliament buildings of the Northern Irish government, in Belfast, are called Stormont.

2. After Scotland, Northern Ireland is the second most sparsely populated country in the UK.

3. In 1921 the island of Ireland was divided into two parts. Northern Ireland remained part of the United Kingdom and the rest became known as the Republic of Ireland.

4. Although English is the most popular language in Northern Ireland, Chinese is the most widely spoken minority language!

5. Northern Ireland is divided into six counties: Antrim, Armagh, Derry (Londonderry), Tyrone, Fermanagh, and Down.

6. Lough Neagh is a huge lake in Northern Ireland - in fact it's the biggest lake in the British Isles and every county except Fermanagh touches the shores of the lake!

7. The Giant's Causeway is a famous rocky area of the coast in County Antrim. It's made up of thousands of hexagonal blocks of rock, formed by ancient volcanic eruptions.

8. Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland. The land that Belfast occupies has been occupied since the Bronze Age!

9. The population of Northern Ireland is about 1.8 million.

10. Northern Ireland is sometimes referred to as Ulster. Ulster is an Irish province made up of nine counties, six of which are part of Northern Ireland.

Did you know?

With an average of 157 wet days a year, it rains less in Belfast than it does in Scotland, but the capital of Northern Ireland is still wetter than Dublin, the Irish capital!

The world-famous ship the Titanic was built and launched from Belfast Harbour. At the time it launched, it was the largest man-made moving object on Earth! The Titanic was built by the Belfast shipyard Harland & Wolff in 1911. The RMS Titanic sadly sank after hitting an iceberg on April 15 1912, on her very first voyage.

Although Northern Ireland is sometimes called Ulster, the old Ulster actually included areas that are now part of the Republic of Ireland.

Northern Ireland is clearly home to the young! Almost 46% of the total population of Northern Ireland are under 30 years old.

As in the rest of Ireland, there are no snakes or toads in the country!

At its closest point, Northern Ireland is only 13 miles across the sea from the Scottish coast. Apparently, on a clear day you can stand in Antrim, look across the water and see houses in Scotland!

The Northern Ireland football team has qualified for three world cups, in 1958, 1982 and 1986, and George Best is considered one of the most famous players to come from the country. Other sports legends to come from Northern Ireland are snooker player Alex Higgins and Formula One racer Eddie Irvine.

Look through the gallery and see if you can spot the following:

Strangford on the coast of Northern Ireland

The ruin of Dunluce Castle in County Antrim

The Giant's Causeway

A wall mural in Belfast

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland

Titanic Belfast Museum

Dunseverick Bridge

The Dark Hedges in Ballymoney

Stormont

Gallery

About

Northern Ireland is the smallest country in the United Kingdom. It makes up the United Kingdom, along with England, Scotland and Wales.

Northern Ireland is situated on an island in Western Europe called Ireland. In 1921 Ireland was divided into two parts. Northern Ireland remained part of the United Kingdom and the rest became known as the Republic of Ireland.

Northern Ireland's history is a little complicated! About 800 years ago, the Kings of England gained control of Ireland, but years later, the Irish managed to get rid of most of the English! But in the mid-1600s, the famous English military leader, Oliver Cromwell, took over all of Ireland. Since England was Protestant while Ireland was Catholic, there was a lot of hostility between both sides.

By the 19th century, many people living in Northern Ireland were Protestant and had English roots. And this is where problems arose as most people in Northern Ireland didn't want independence like the rest of Ireland did.

The people who wanted an independent Ireland became known as republicans or nationalists because they wanted Ireland to become a republic, a government where people come together to make laws. The people who didn't want independence for Ireland were referred to as unionists because they wanted to retain their union with the UK. The unionists lived mostly in Northern Ireland.
By 1921, the UK agreed to recognise Ireland as an independent nation, but kept Northern Ireland under the Government of Ireland Act.
But this didn't stop the problems, unfortunately. The reason why? Republicans were willing to continue to fight to make Northern Ireland part of the rest of Ireland while Irish unionists were willing to fight to prevent it. There were lots of protests and riots. The crisis escalated in 1969 when British troops were sent in to prevent religious violence between the Protestants and the Catholics. The clashes between the two sides were known as the Troubles.

Bloody Sunday was one of the most significant events of the Troubles. It took place on the 30 January 1972, when British soldiers shot 28 civilian citizens and 14 people died.
The Belfast Agreement, also known as the Good Friday Agreement because it was reached on Good Friday, 10 April 1998, was a turning point. It was an agreement between the British and Irish governments and most political parties in Northern Ireland about how Northern Ireland should be governed.
Following a referendum in Northern Ireland in 1998, the National Assembly for Northern Ireland was established. The UK government has transferred a wide range of powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly. This means that local politicians instead of MPs (Members of Parliament) in London, now make key decisions on how Northern Ireland is governed.

Religion has been the cause of many tensions in Northern Ireland. Most people in Ireland are Christians, but in Northern Ireland they predominantly belong to the Protestant Church, whereas in the neighbouring Republic of Ireland, most people belong to the Roman Catholic Church. This has caused many problems between the two religions that exist in Ireland, but things are changing.

Even though he is the Irish patron saint, St Patrick was actually born in Britain not Ireland! Some believe he was kidnapped as a teenager and brought to Ireland. St Patrick was credited for bringing the religion of Christianity to Ireland. St Patrick's Day is celebrated annually in Northern Ireland as it is in the rest of Ireland on March 17. It is a public holiday and celebrations generally involve public parades and festivals, and the wearing of green clothes or shamrocks.

Agriculture is one of Northern Ireland's most important industries and there are currently over 29,000 farmers.

Belfast is the largest centre of population, with more than a third of people in Northern Ireland living in or near the capital. Londonderry or Derry is the largest city after Belfast. It is found in the northwest of the country beside the River Foyle.

Like the rest of the UK, the pound sterling is the currency of the country.

English is the most commonly spoken language but Irish (or 'Irish Gaelic') is also significant, as well as a language known as Ulster Scots. With more people from other countries moving to Northern Ireland, other languages like Chinese, Urdu or Polish are also becoming more common.

One of the most popular meals in Northern Ireland is known as the 'Ulster Fry': bacon, egg, soda bread, sausage, potato bread, mushrooms, fried tomato and baked beans! Potatoes are a key ingredient in the food of Northern Ireland. Traditional dishes include champ (mashed potato with spring onions), farl (potato bread) and boxty (potato cake).

Northern Ireland enjoys its sport! The most popular are football, gaelic football and rugby union, although athletics, boxing, cricket, golf, hurling (an outdoor stick-and-ball game similar to hockey and lacrosse and traditional in Ireland) and snooker are also popular.

Related Videos

Just for fun...
Make your own Northern Irish farl (soda bread)
Download some Northern Ireland printables

Try some St Patrick's Day crafts and some St Patrick's Day colouring in

Best kids' books about Northern Ireland

Find out more

Read the Encyclopedia Britannica entry for Northern Ireland

The myths and legends of the Giant's Causeway explained

Find out about the Battle of Moira, a legendary clash which took place in 637 AD between Domnall the High King of Ireland and his stepson Congal Cáech, King of Ulster, in the BBC Bitesize guide

Watch an animated summary of citizenship and politics in Northern Ireland, created by the BBC

BBC Newsround explains the history of Northern Ireland and the Troubles
Facts and figures about Northern Ireland for children
See for yourself

Discover Northern Ireland offers guides to all Northern Ireland's tourist destinations

The hugely popular TV series Game of Thrones is filmed in Northern Ireland

Find out more about the amazing Giant's Causeway

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen in 1755. Would you be brave enough to walk over it?

The Ulster Museum tells the unique human story of the northern part of Ireland

Cave Hill is an iconic landmark of Belfast

In Belfast two museums are great for kids: W5 and Titanic Belfast

Also see

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Northern Ireland for children: fact, figures and information about Northern Ireland for KS1 and KS2 geography projects.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Top 10 facts

1. Wales is surrounded by the sea on three sides.

2. Wales covers an area of 20,742 square kilometres.

3. Wales has a population of just over 3 million people.

4. As in Northern Ireland and Scotland, Wales has its own devolved government - the National Assembly for Wales - which governs many aspects of Welsh life including health and education. In other matters (taxation, foreign policy, criminal law) Wales is governed by the UK-wide parliament based in London.

5. The Welsh language (Cymraeg) is the oldest language in Britain; it could be up to 4,000 years old.

6. The longest and fastest zip wire rides in Europe are in Bethesda, North Wales.

7. The Mabinogion is a collection of Welsh traditional stories that's over 1000 years old! It features dragons, giants, enchanted trees and brave heroes and heroines.

8. The Welsh national game is rugby.

9. After many battles to maintain independence, Wales was annexed by the English in the thirteenth century and politically united with England under the Tudor monarchs.

10. The deepest cave in Britain, Ogof Ffynnon Dddu, is in Wales. It's 1,010ft (304m) deep!

Did you know?

Wales is well known for its hills and mountains, with the highest mountains found in the northwest of the country. Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa in Welsh) is the highest mountain in Wales and England, 1085 metres (3560 feet) high.

The Clwyd, Conwy, Taff and Usk are some of the rivers found in Wales.

The climate of Wales is mild and damp and the more mountainous regions have a high rainfall.

The Welsh are descendants of the ancient inhabitants of Britain, known as Celts.

Nearly a quarter of the population can speak Welsh. Most Welsh speakers live in the north and southwest. There is a real effort to preserve the Welsh language; the Welsh-language television station, SC4, broadcasts in Wales, and there are around 450 Welsh-medium primary schools (25 per cent of Year 2 children are taught in Welsh as their main language).

People like to sing in Wales! There is a strong tradition of choral singing in the country and many famous singers like Tom Jones and Charlotte Church were born there.

The special festivals of Wales, known as eisteddfodau (pronounced eye-steth-vod-eye) celebrate Welsh literature and music.

Wales has lots of unique traditions for the Christmas and New Year period: at Noson Gyflaith (Taffy or Toffee Evening) on Christmas Eve a special kind of toffee is made and pulled; on Christmas Day some Welsh communities attend a plygain carol service at the parish church between 3am and 6am! At New Year another Welsh tradition survives in some communities: children go door to door to collect Calennig, New Year's Day gifts.

Look through the gallery and see if you can spot the following:

Cardiff Castle

The Welsh coast

Cymru and the Welsh flag

The Brecon Beacons

Llangollen in North Wales

Coastal cliffs in Wales

The Welsh flag

Caernarfon Castle

Mermaid Quay in Cardiff Bay

Cilgwyn in Pembrokeshire

The seaside town of Tenby

Caerphilly Castle

Llandudno

Craig Goch Dam

A steam locomotive in Wales

The Welsh name for Snowdon is Yr Wyddfa

A Welsh village

Gallery

About

Wales is a country famous for its hills, mountains and mild, damp climate... it rains a lot in Wales!

It has a population of just over three million people but there are nearly three times as many sheep and lambs in Wales as there are people!

There are five regions in Wales: the North West (home to Snowdonia National Park), the North East, Mid Wales, the South West (where the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is located) and the South East (where the Welsh capital city Cardiff is).

Some of the many famous people who come from Wales include Sir Anthony Hopkins, Tom Jones, Shirley Bassey, Charlotte Church and Gareth Bale.

The Welsh flag has a green and white background with a red dragon. Along with Bhutan and Malta, it is only one of three countries that has a dragon on their national flag. Wales is the only country in the United Kingdom not to be represented on the Union Jack.

Saint David (known as Dewi Sant in Wales) was a Welsh Bishop during the 6th century. He was later made a saint and became the Patron Saint of Wales. On St. David's Day, 1 March, people in Wales celebrate the life of their patron saint. Celebrations include concerts, parades and food festivals. You can visit Saint David's place of birth, St David's (or Tyddewi in Welsh); it is the smallest city in the United Kingdom.
In the past, Wales was very famous for its coal mining industry.
Tourism is very important to Wales and the country attracts many visitors every year. Wales has five areas of outstanding natural beauty - Clwydian Range, Llyn Peninsula, Wye Valley, Gower Peninsula and the Isle of Anglesey. There are three national parks in Wales: Snowdonia, the Brecon Beacons and the Pembrokeshire Coast. They are all popular for camping, walking and climbing holidays.

The daffodil is Wales' national flower but the leek is also a national symbol.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwyllllantysiliogogogoch is a town in North Wales and has the longest place name in the world. it means St Mary's Church in the hallow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of St Tysilio of the red cave.

If you're a fan of castles, Wales is the place to go. With a total of 600, Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in the world!

Rugby is the national sport in Wales and the national team play their home games at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

The Welsh National Anthem is called Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau which means 'Old Land of My Fathers'.

Welsh cakes are traditional in Wales. Made from flour, sultanas, raisins, and possibly currants, as well as spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, they are rather like a kind of flat scone and are served hot or cold, dusted with caster sugar.

The Royal Mint's headquarters is found in Llantrisant, South Wales. It makes an impressive five billion coins a year!

Prince Charles is the current Prince of Wales. The title can only be given to the eldest son of a British sovereign (king or queen), in other words the person who will succeed to the throne of Great Britain. Prince Charles was given the title in 1958 when he was just ten years old. He is the 21st Prince of Wales since King Edward I gave the title to his own son.

One of the oldest traditions in Wales, the Mari Lwyd is a midwinter "good luck" tradition that takes place any time between December and January. The Mari Lwyd is a white horse's skull, decorated with coloured ribbons and bells, draped in white and attached to a long pole. The Mari Lwyd moves around Welsh villages from door to door and tries to "bite" innocent people, challening them to a Welsh poetry competition called the pwnco!

Related Videos

Just for fun...

Get crafting for St David's Day and make a daffodil magnet, a dragon collage and sock puppet and a lovespoon

Escape the clutches of the Beast of Bont in an online game

Make your own Welsh dragon, or colour in a Welsh flag

BBC songs and games for Welsh learners aged between 5 and 7

Practise Welsh language skills with Penigamp, a KS2 game for children whose second language is Welsh

Try some English / Welsh colouring sheets

Learn a few Welsh words and phrases with a free online Welsh language course

Complete some Welsh-themed puzzles

Learn to pronounce Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch correctly!

Make a paper 3D daffodil or some Welsh pompom sheep

An eisteddfod is a festival of music, literature and performance in Wales; the National Eisteddfod takes place every year

Can you spot the difference between Welsh myths and Welsh truths? Take an online quiz to find out!

Watch animated Welsh myths (you can listen to the stories in English or Welsh!)

Interactive Welsh language learning games

Watch a video about Beti Bwt's Wash Day, a traditional Welsh story and song

Cook some traditional Welsh foods, including bara brith (a rich fruit loaf), Welsh rarebit (a kind of cheese on toast), Welsh cakes and Swansea breakfast (seafood and laverbred, a kind of seaweed). You could even bake Welsh clay-pot bread in a flower pot!

Books about Wales for children

Find out more

Explore Welsh landscapes, from the coastline to the mountains

Look through a history of Wales in 10 objects

Read about how St David's Day is celebrated in Wales

Find out why national symbols of Wales include the leek, the daffodil, the harp and the Prince of Wales Feathers

Discover Welsh legends on an interactive website

Giving lovespoons to celebrate occasions like births, christenings, weddings, anniversaries and retirement is a Welsh tradition that dates back to the 17th century

Interactive content about the Celts in Wales

Watch an animated summary of citizenship and politics in Wales, created by the BBC

Find out about castle-building in Wales

Read the words of Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau (in English 'Land of my Fathers'), Wales' national anthem

Coal House at War is a BBC programme about Welsh kids' lives during WWII

Learn more about Welsh place names

Read more about Noson Gyflaith, the Welsh Christmas Eve Toffee Evening, and try the recipe yourself. Find out more about other Welsh Christmas and New Year traditions like the plygain carol service and the Calennig, New Year's Day gifts, too.

The Mari Lwyd is another famous Welsh tradition; see pictures of recent celebrations online.

See for yourself

Cardiff is packed with museums about all aspects of life in Wales

Take a virtual tour of The Senedd, the main public building of the National Assembly

Visit some of the castles in Wales, the "castle capital of the world"

The story of the wool industry in Wales is brought to life at the National Wool Museum in Carmarthenshire

Big Pit in Blaenafon is a real coal mine and one of Britain's leading mining museums

Outdoor (and underground!) sports are on offer at Zip World Slate Caverns, where you'll find the longest zip line in Europe (and the fastest in the world!)

Wales is home to 10 narrow gauge steam railways and travelling by steam train is a great way to explore

The city of St Davids is home to a beautiful 12th-century cathedral

Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England, is 1085 metres tall

Also see

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Wales for KS1 and KS2: information, pictures, videos, games and further learning links for homework projects about Wales.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun Canada Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about Canada

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn some interesting information about Canada while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about the climate in Canada, the languages spoken, its major cities, natural resources, coastline, border and much more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Australia Facts for Kids

Learn some interesting information about Australia while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids!

Read about Australian animals, its major cities, highest mountain, unique landscapes, population, indigenous people and much more.

As of 2012, Australia has an estimated population of over 22 million people.

Australia is the world's 6th largest country by area.

Due to its large size and isolation from the rest of the world, Australia is sometimes known as the 'island continent'.

The largest cities in Australia are Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.

A desert area known as the 'outback' covers much of the land.

The name 'Australia' comes from the Latin word 'australis', meaning southern.

It is estimated the humans have lived in Australia for around 45000 years.

The indigenous people of Australia are Australian Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders.

The highest mountain on mainland Australia is Mt Kosciuszko, standing 2228m (7310ft) above sea level.

The world's largest reef system, the Great Barrier Reef, is found off the north-eastern coast of Australia.

Australia has a range of different landscapes, including urban areas, mountain ranges, deserts and rain forests.

Australia is home to a variety of unique animals, including the koala, kangaroo, emu, kookaburra and platypus.

Although they usually keep to themselves, there are a range of dangerous snakes in Australia, such as the Brown Snake, Tiger Snake and Taipan.

Australia has over 750 different reptile species, more than any other country in the world.

Australia is a relatively wealthy country with a high life expectancy.

Australia hosted the 1956 (Melbourne) and 2000 (Sydney) Summer Olympics.

For more information, check out maps of Australia or take a closer look at the Australian flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun Australia Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about Australia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Australia Facts for Kids Learn some interesting information about Australia while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about Australian animals, its major cities, highest mountain, unique landscapes, population, indigenous people and much more. As of 2012, Australia has an estimated population of over 22 million people.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Official Name: Canada
Form of Government: Federal parliamentary state
Capital: Ottawa
Population: 36,307,820
Official Language: English, French
Money: Canadian dollar
Area: 9,970,610 square kilometres
Major Mountain Ranges: Rockies, Coast, Laurentian
Major Rivers: St. Lawrence, Mackenzie

Canada is one seriously huge place! Measuring 4,600km from north to south, the country spans more than half the Northern Hemisphere. And at a whopping 5,500km from east to west, it stretches across six time zones! A vast, rugged land, Canada is the second largest country in the world (being the largest) but only 0.5% of the world's population live there.

Canada has a varied landscape, with majestic mountains, rolling plains, forested valleys, and beautiful blue rivers and lakes. The Canadian Shield, a hilly region of lakes and swamps, stretches across northern Canada and has some of the oldest rocks on Earth.

In Canada's far north lies the frozen . Here, ice, snow and dominate the landscape. Brrrrrr! Despite the cold, harsh climate, Native Canadians, called First Nations people, live in this region, where they hunt and fish for food.

Canada's remote north and extensive forests are home to lots of wonderful wildlife, from bears, wolves, deer, mountain lions, beavers and bighorn sheep, to smaller animals such as raccoons, otters and rabbits. The country's lakes and rivers - which contain about 20 percent of all fresh water on Earth - are full of fish such as trout and salmon.

Canada's prairies (open grasslands) in the south are home to American buffalo and pronghorn antelope. And in the sprawling evergreen forests of northern Canada, moose and black bears are amongst the amazing animals that can be found. Even farther north, herds of reindeer and musk ox roam the cold, bare tundra.

Canadians work hard to protect their native wildlife, and the country has 41 national parks and three marine conservation areas. Nevertheless, species like wolves, lynx and Atlantic fish have faced threats from overhunting and overfishing.

The first people to come to Canada arrived between 15,000 and 30,000 years ago across a land bridge that joined Asia and North America. Around A.D. 1000, the explorer Leif Eriksson reached Newfoundland, Canada. He tried to establish a settlement, but it didn't last long.

In the 16th century, French and British settlers arrived. Land disputes between farmers and fur traders led to four wars between 1689 and 1763. The final war, called the French and Indian War, left the British in control of Canada, but French influence continued and remains strong even today.

In 1867, Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick combined to form a dominion with its own government, parliament and prime minister - and Manitoba joined soon after. In 1931, Canada became an independent nation.

Following numerous territorial changes over the years, today Canada is made up of ten provinces and three territories.

In some ways Canada is many nations in one. Descendants of British and French immigrants make up about half the population. They were followed by other European and Asian immigrants. First Nations peoples make up about four percent of the population.

Inuit people live mostly in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Many Native Canadians live on their traditional lands, but many others have moved to cities across Canada. First Nations artwork is widely recognised and is seen as a symbol of Canadian culture.

The British monarch is the head of state of Canada. The monarch is represented by a governor-general, who has very limited powers. Laws are made by Canada's elected federal government, which includes a parliament and a prime minister.

Britain's Quebec Act of 1774 granted Quebec its own legal and religious rights. Despite this concession, many Quebec citizens have long sought independence. In votes held in 1980 and 1995, Quebec decided to stay in Canada. But the second vote was very close, and the debate is still alive.

Canada has provided fish, furs and other natural resources to the world since the 1500s. Today, it is a world leader in agricultural production, telecommunications and energy technologies. The vast majority of Canada's exports go to the United States.

Image credits

Map of Canada: National Geographic Maps. Picture of Telus World of Science in Vancouver, Canada: Dan Breckwoldt, Dreamstime. Picture of building in Victoria, British Columbia: Chrishowey, Dreamstime. All other pitcures: Getty Images UK.

What did you make of our facts about Canada? Let us know by leaving a comment, below!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Facts about Canada: Learn about the Canadian provinces and Canada's history, people, nature, economy and geography, including a map of Canada.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find amazing facts about animals, science, history and geography, along with fun competitions, games and more. Visit National Geographic Kids today!

# data[].attributes.headline
Australia Country Profile - National Geographic

# data[].attributes.subject
Australia Country Profile - National Geographic

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Koalas are marsupials, related to kangaroos.

OFFICIAL NAME: Commonwealth of Australia

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Federal parliamentary democracy; Commonwealth realm

CAPITAL: Canberra

POPULATION: 23,470,145

OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: English

MONEY: Australian dollar

AREA: 2,969,906 square miles (7,692,024 square kilometers)

MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Great Dividing Range, Macdonnell Ranges

MAJOR RIVERS: Murray-Darling, Murrumbidgee, Lachlan

Australia is the only country in the world that covers an entire continent. It is one of the largest countries on Earth. Although it is rich in natural resources and has a lot of fertile land, more than one-third of Australia is desert.

Most Australian cities and farms are located in the southwest and southeast, where the climate is more comfortable. There are dense rain forests in the northeast. The famous outback (remote rural areas) contains the country's largest deserts, where there are scorching temperatures, little water, and almost no vegetation.

Running around the eastern and southeastern edge of Australia is the Great Dividing Range. This 2,300-mile (3,700-kilometer) stretch of mountain sends water down into Australia's most important rivers and the Great Artesian Basin, the largest groundwater source in the world.
Map created by National Geographic Maps

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Australia is one of the world's most ethnically diverse nations. Nearly a quarter of the people who live in Australia were born in other countries. They come from the United Kingdom and other European countries, but also from China, Vietnam, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Australia's warm, sunny climate and abundance of open spaces gives the population a love of the outdoors. The people are also passionate about sports, including swimming, surfing, sailing, tennis, soccer, cricket, rugby, and their own invention, Australian rules football.

Australia's ecosystem is an unusual one because of its remote location. As a result, there are many animal species that occur here and nowhere else in the world, such as the platypus, kangaroo, echidna, and koala. Australia has 516 national parks to protect its unique plants and animals.

One of Australia's most amazing sites rises like an enormous whale's back from a flat red-soil desert called the Red Center. This site is called Uluru, and it is a sacred natural formation at the heart of the country. Rising 1,100 feet (335 meters) tall, it is the largest rock in the world!

Australia is home to many of the deadliest species of animals on the planet. There are 36 species of poisonous funnel-web spiders in eastern Australia. There are also 20 types of venomous snakes, including the taipan, which attacks without warning and bites repeatedly, killing its victim in minutes.

There are several types of rain forests in Australia. Tropical rain forests, mainly found in the northeast, are the richest in plant and animal species. Subtropical rain forests are found near the mid-eastern coast, and broadleaf rain forests grow in the southeast and on the island of Tasmania.

GOVERNMENT

As a commonwealth of the United Kingdom, Australia's head of state is the British monarch. Many Australians think the country should end its ties to Britain and become a republic. In a vote in 1999, Australians decided against separating from the UK, but the vote was close, and the debate continues.

Australia is an important exporter of agricultural goods like wool, wheat, beef, fruit, and wine. The country is also rich in minerals and metals and is the world's fourth largest producer of gold.

Aboriginal people arrived in Australia about 50,000 years ago. They may have traveled from Asia across land bridges that were exposed when sea levels were lower. The hardy Aborigines have learned to live in the harsh conditions of the outback.

Dutch explorers first landed in Australia in 1606, and the British began to settle there in 1788. Many settlers were criminals sent to live in Australia as punishment. For a short time, the newcomers lived peacefully with the Aboriginal people. But soon, fighting broke out over who owned the land.

In 1851, gold was discovered in Australia. A rush to find riches brought thousands of new immigrants, and by 1859, six separate colonies existed. In 1901, these colonies joined to form a British commonwealth.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Australia Country Profile - National Geographic Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Koalas are marsupials, related to kangaroos. OFFICIAL NAME: Commonwealth of Australia FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Federal parliamentary democracy; Commonwealth realm CAPITAL: Canberra POPULATION: 23,470,145 OFFICIAL LANGUAGE: English MONEY: Australian dollar AREA: 2,969,906 square miles (7,692,024 square kilometers) MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Great Dividing Range, Macdonnell Ranges MAJOR RIVERS: Murray-Darling, Murrumbidgee, Lachlan Australia is the only country in the world that covers an entire continent.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Merino sheep are prized for their wool.

OFFICIAL NAME: New Zealand/Aotearoa (Maori)

FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Parliamentary democracy

CAPITAL: Wellington

POPULATION: 4,545,627

OFFICIAL LANGUAGES: English/Maori

MONEY: New Zealand dollar

AREA: 103,883 square miles (269,055 square kilometers)

MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Southern Alps, Kaikoura Ranges

MAJOR RIVERS: Waikato, Clurtha, Rangitaiki, Wanganui, Manawatu, Buller, Rakaia, Waitaki, Waiau

New Zealand is a remote, mountainous group of islands in the southeastern Pacific Ocean. The two main islands, North and South Islands, are separated by the Cook Strait. Australia, its nearest neighbor, is 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) away.

The islands were created just 23 million years ago when land was thrust out of the ocean by volcanic forces. New Zealand has more than 50 volcanoes, some of which are still active today. Sharp snowy peaks, rocky shores, and pastures create a majestic landscape.

The South Island is home to the highest mountain peak in New Zealand, Mount Cook, which rises to 12,316 feet (3,754 meters) and is called "Cloud Piercer" by the Maori people.
Map created by National Geographic Maps

PEOPLE & CULTURE

New Zealanders, or "Kiwis" as they are called, have been shaped by their isolation. Today, most Kiwis are no longer farmers, with 86 percent of the population living in cities. More people live in the city of Auckland on North Island, than the whole population of South Island.

The Maori named the country, Aotearoa, "The Land of the Long White Cloud." The Maori culture is widely respected by New Zealanders and many parcels of land under dispute were returned to the Maori in 1998.

Rugby is the favorite sport and nearly everyone cheers on the national team, the All Blacks. Many Kiwis also enjoy cricket.

Because of its remote location, New Zealand is rich in unusual wildlife not seen anywhere else in the world. Nearly all the land animals are birds and many of these species have lost the ability to fly. The Maori people and European settlers introduced animals to the islands and the flightless birds had no defense against them.

In the last 1,000 years, half of all animals on the islands have become extinct. Deforestation and draining of swamp land is also threatening many remaining species, including the kiwi bird. Fewer than 75,000 wild kiwis remain. Several species are recovering, including the kakapo, kokako, kiwi, and tuatara.

Bats are the only land mammals to have made the ocean crossing. Birds and insects, such as the weta, evolved to fill the gap of mammals on the islands. The giant weta, at 2.5 ounces (70 grams), weighs three times more than a mouse. It is a relative of crickets and is considered one of the world's heaviest insects.

Pilot and humpback whales visit the islands on their way to breed, and orcas come to feed on dolphins.

GOVERNMENT & ECONOMY

New Zealand's government is based on the parliamentary democracy based on the system used in Britain. There are 122 seats in the House of Representatives and each is elected for a three-year term. Seven seats are reserved for the Maori and they are chosen by Maori voters.

There are two main parties, National and Labour. The party with the most elected representatives forms the government. The leader of the party is the Prime Minister.

Tourism is the main industry in New Zealand with over two million visitors a year. The main exports are lamb, butter, kiwifruit, and wine.

The Maori people arrived by canoe from islands in Polynesia near Tahiti around 1,000 A.D. In the 1600s, the Dutch explorer Abel Tasman visited the islands, but his party left after being attacked. New Zealand was named Nieuw Zeeland after a region in the Netherlands.

In 1769, Captain James Cook came to the islands. The British established settlements and signed a treaty with the Maori in 1840. The Maori protested the treaty after their lands were seized, and in the 1860s, they began a 12-year war against the British for control of North Island. Peace was restored to the islands in the 1870s.

In 1893, New Zealand became the first country to give women the right to vote. The country became a dominion of Britain in 1907 and gained its independence from Britain in 1947.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Merino sheep are prized for their wool. OFFICIAL NAME: New Zealand/Aotearoa (Maori) FORM OF GOVERNMENT: Parliamentary democracy CAPITAL: Wellington POPULATION: 4,545,627 OFFICIAL LANGUAGES: English/Maori MONEY: New Zealand dollar AREA: 103,883 square miles (269,055 square kilometers) MAJOR MOUNTAIN RANGES: Southern Alps, Kaikoura Ranges MAJOR RIVERS: Waikato, Clurtha, Rangitaiki, Wanganui, Manawatu, Buller, Rakaia, Waitaki, Waiau New Zealand is a remote, mountainous group of islands in the southeastern Pacific Ocean.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
New Zealand Facts for Kids

Learn some interesting information about New Zealand while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids!

Read about New Zealand's tallest mountain, its population, major cities, islands, exports, animals, popular sports and much more.

New Zealand is located in the south-western Pacific Ocean and features two main islands, the North Island and the South Island, as well as other smaller ones.

Other smaller islands include Stewart Island, Waiheke Island, Chatham Island, Great Barrier Island and more, although many are uninhabited.

The capital city of New Zealand is Wellington while the largest city is Auckland.
Other major cities include Christchurch, Hamilton and Dunedin.

The population of New Zealand was estimated to be around 4.5 million at the start of 2013.

The official spoken languages of New Zealand are English and te reo Maori, with English being the most widely used.

Maori are the indigenous Polynesian people of New Zealand.

The Maori name for New Zealand is Aotearoa.

The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 between the British and Maori, making New Zealand a colony of the British Empire.

In 1893 New Zealand became the first country in the world to give all women the right to vote.

Due to its isolation, New Zealand has developed unique animal and plant life.

The bird species of New Zealand are particularly diverse, including alpine parrots and ground dwelling Kiwis.

The term 'Kiwi' is also used as a nickname for a New Zealander.

The Lord of the Rings movies were filmed in New Zealand.

In New Zealand they drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Located in the South Island, the highest mountain in New Zealand is Aoraki Mount Cook which reaches 3,754 metres (12,316 ft) in height.

Dairy products are New Zealand's highest earning exports.

Rugby is the most popular spectator sport in New Zealand but a variety of sports such as football (soccer), cricket, netball, golf and others are popular among participants.

For more information, check out maps of New Zealand or take a closer look at the New Zealand flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun New Zealand Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about NZ

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
New Zealand Facts for Kids Learn some interesting information about New Zealand while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about New Zealand's tallest mountain, its population, major cities, islands, exports, animals, popular sports and much more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
South Africa Facts for Kids

Learn some interesting information about South Africa while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids!

Read about South African wildlife, its coastline, major cities, languages, population, favorite sports and much more.

The official name of South Africa is the Republic of South Africa.

South Africa is located at the southern end of Africa.

In 2011 the population of South Africa was around 52 million.

South Africa has three capital cities, Cape Town, Bloemfontein and Pretoria.

The largest city in South Africa is Johannesburg. Other major cities include Soweto and Durban.

South Africa has 11 official languages, including Zulu, Afrikaans, Xhosa and English.

South Africa has the largest economy of any African country.

South Africa has had an unsettled history, with apartheid policies made by the National Party enforcing a system of segregation from 1948 until 1994. Nelson Mandela was elected president in 1994 after South Africa's first universal elections.

South Africa's coastline stretches over 2500 kilometres (1553 miles) in length.

South Africa is home to a wide variety of animals including giraffes, hippopotamus, leopards and lions.

Conservation is an important issue in South Africa. It has lost many natural habitats due to deforestation and overpopulation.

South Africa is a member of the United Nations.

South Africa has high unemployment.

The first human heart transplant was performed in a Cape Town hospital in 1967.

Cave paintings have been found in South Africa that date to around 75000 years ago.

Drivers use the left-hand side of the road in South Africa.

The most popular sports in South Africa are football (soccer), rugby and cricket.

In 2010 South Africa hosted the FIFA World Cup.

For more information, check out maps of South Africa or take a closer look at the South African flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun South Africa Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about South Africa

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
South Africa Facts for Kids Learn some interesting information about South Africa while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about South African wildlife, its coastline, major cities, languages, population, favorite sports and much more. The official name of South Africa is the Republic of South Africa.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
National Symbol and flag

England is 74 times smaller than the USA,
59 times smaller than Australia and
3 times smaller than Japan.

Where is England?

England is in north-west Europe and is in the southern part of Great Britain. It is an island country and also part of the United Kingdom (UK) .

England is the largest country in Great Britain and the UK. It is sometimes, wrongly, used in reference to the whole United Kingdom, the entire island of Great Britain, or indeed the British Isles. This is not only incorrect but can cause offence to people from other parts of the UK. ( Nationality of the British people).

Nearly 84% of the population of the UK lives in England, mainly in the major cities and metropolitan areas.

Does England have its own government?

England has not had a separate political identity since 1707, when Great Britain was established as a political entity. There is no government or parliament just for England.

How far is England from mainland Europe?

England is only 35 km from France and is now linked by a tunnel under the English Channel.

What is the land like in England?

The south of England is mostly low-lying land, with hills and agricultural land and the north of England is mostly covered in moorland and mountains.
Find out more about the land

The National Flag of England

Harry Potter

The author of the Harry Potter books, JK Rowling, was born in Chipping Sodbury, Gloucestershire, England.
Why and How does England dominate the UK? Find out what England is famous for English Stereotypes English Symbols
Country Facts

Questions about England

Why does England dominate the UK?

Questions about Great Britain

What is Great Britain?
Is Britain the same as Great Britain?
Which countries are in Great Britain?

Find out about Great Britain

Questions about the United Kingdom
Where is the UK?
What countries make up the UK?
What is the official title (name) of the UK?
Why is the whole of Ireland not part of the UK?
How and why was the UK formed?
Find out about the UK

Questions about the British Isles
What are the British Isles?
Find out about the British Isles

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
National Symbol and flag England is 74 times smaller than the USA, 59 times smaller than Australia and 3 times smaller than Japan. Where is England? England is in north-west Europe and is in the southern part of Great Britain. It is an island country and also part of the United Kingdom (UK) .

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
United States Facts for Kids

Learn some interesting information about the United States of America while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids!

Read about United States history, its population, states, economy, mountains, rivers, popular sports and much more.

The United States of America is also called the USA, US, United States or sometimes America.

On July 4, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was issued, establishing the United States of America.

The US is the 4th largest country in the world by land area and 3rd by population.

On February 25, 2013, the estimated population of the US was 315,568,000.

The US is a diverse country with a multicultural society.

The US has the world's largest economy.

The US developed the first nuclear weapons, using them on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki near the end of World War 2.

The Mississippi and Missouri Rivers combine to form the longest river system in the US and the fourth longest in the world.

The tallest mountain the US is Mt McKinley, located in the state of Alaska it reaches 20,320 ft (6,194 m) above sea level.

Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867 and is the largest state in the US by land area.

Hawaii is the most recent of the 50 states in the US (joining in 1959) and is the only one made up entirely of islands.

Most of the world's tornadoes occur in the Midwest region of the US known as Tornado Alley.

The most populated city in the US is New York City, followed by Los Angeles and Chicago.

English is the most commonly spoken language in the US, followed by Spanish.

The first man to walk on the moon was American Neil Armstrong (July 21, 1969).

The US was the leading force behind the development of the Internet.

The US consumes more petroleum than any other country in the world.

The most popular team sports in the US are American football, baseball, basketball and ice hockey.

For more information, check out maps of the United States or take a closer look at the US flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun USA Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about the United States of America

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
United States Facts for Kids Learn some interesting information about the United States of America while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about United States history, its population, states, economy, mountains, rivers, popular sports and much more.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We're off to a place of towering sky scrapers, beautiful beaches, breath-taking canyons, cool cowboys and mega movie stars! Fancy joining? Then check out our fab facts about the USA...

Official Name: United States of America
Population: 324, 057, 300
Form of Government: Constitution-based federal republic
Capital: Washington, D.C.
Area: 9, 826, 630 square kilometres
Major Mountain Ranges: Rocky Mountains, Appalachian Mountains
Major Rivers: Mississippi, Missouri, Colorado
Languages: English, Spanish
Money: U.S. dollar

The United States of America (often referred to as the USA, or simply the US) is the world"s third largest country in size (after and ) and the third largest in terms of population (after and ). Located in North America, the country is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean, and on the east by the Atlantic Ocean. Along the northern border is Canada, and along the southern border is Mexico. There are 50 states and the District of Columbia.

More than twice the size of the European Union, the United States has high mountains in the West and a vast, central plain. The lowest point in the country is in Death Valley, which sits 86m below sea level, and the highest peak is Mount McKinley, standing a whopping 6,198m tall.

The landscape varies across this large country - from the tropical beaches of Florida to the snowy peaks of the Rocky Mountains, from the rolling prairie lands and barren deserts in the west to the huge areas of dense wilderness in the north. Interspersed throughout are the Great Lakes, the Grand Canyon, the majestic Yosemite Valley and the mighty Mississippi River.

The wildlife is as diverse as the landscape. Mammals such as American Buffalo once roamed freely across the plains, but today can only be found in protected areas. The largest carnivores are black bears, grizzlies and even polar bears, which live in the northernmost state of Alaska.

The United States works to look after its wildlife, with nearly 400 areas protected and maintained by the National Park Service, and many other parks in each state. The bald eagle, today a protected species, is the national bird and symbol of the United States.

For centuries, native peoples lived across the vast expanse that would become the United States of America. In the early 17th century, settlers moved from Europe to the ' New World ', established colonies and displaced the native peoples.

The settlers fought for their independence from Britain in the late 18th century and formed a union of states based on a new constitution. The nation continued to expand westward and, although the country is a relatively young nation, it has become a global power since declaring independence from Britain on July 4, 1776.

Throughout its history, the United States has been a nation of immigrants. The population is diverse with people from all over the world seeking refuge and a better way of life. The country is divided into six regions - New England, the mid-Atlantic, the South, the Midwest, the Southwest and the West.

European settlers came to New England in search of religious freedom. These states are Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

The mid-Atlantic region includes Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and the city of Washington, D.C. These industrial areas attracted millions of European immigrants and gave rise to some of the East Coast"s largest cities - New York, Baltimore and Philadelphia.

The South includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. These states all struggled in the years following the American Civil War, which lasted from 1860-1865.

The Midwest is home to the country"s agricultural base and is called the 'nation"s breadbasket". The region comprises the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

The Southwest is a beautiful stark landscape of prairie and desert. The states of Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas are considered the Southwest, home to some of the world"s great natural marvels, including the Grand Canyon and Carlsbad Caverns.

The American West, land of the iconic western cowboy and rolling plains, is a symbol of the pioneering spirit of the United States. The West is diverse, ranging from endless wilderness to barren desert, coral reefs to tundra, Hollywood to Yellowstone National Park. The states of the West include Alaska, Colorado, California, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Citizens over the age of 18 years old vote to elect the President and Vice President of the United States every four years. The president lives in the White House in the capital city of Washington, D.C.

The part of the government that makes the country's laws, controls the money and decides if the USA should go to war is called the Congress. There are two houses of Congress - the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate has 100 members, two from each of the 50 states, and each serves a six-year term. The House of Representatives is made up of 435 representatives, who must be elected every two years.

The Supreme Court is the branch of the government that interprets the laws of the USA. It is the highest court in the country and made up of nine justices, who are each picked by the president and must be approved by Congress.

Advances in the past hundred years have established America as a world leader economically, militarily and technologically. The USA's important exports include petroleum products, aircrafts, vehicle parts and medical equipment, and the country's big imports include cars, industrial machinery, computers and crude oil.

Credits

USA map: National Geographic Maps. Picture of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri: pawel.gaul, iStockphoto. Picture of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California: espiegle, iStockphoto. Picture of Zion Canyon in Utah: bjul, Shutterstock. Statue of Liberty in New York City: Stuart Monk, Shutterstock. All other pictures: Getty Images UK.

What do you make of our USA facts? Let us know by leaving a comment below!

Likes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
USA facts: get ready for the lowdown on the Land of Opportunity! | National Geographic Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Official Name: United States of America Population: 324, 057, 300 Form of Government: Constitution-based federal republic Capital: Washington, D.C. Area: 9, 826, 630 square kilometres Major Mountain Ranges: Rocky Mountains, Appalachian Mountains Major Rivers: Mississippi, Missouri, Colorado Languages: English, Spanish Money: U.S.

# data[].attributes.headline
Travelling to England for the first time

# data[].attributes.subject
Travelling to England for the first time

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This post may contain compensated links. Please read our disclaimer for additional information.

If you are visiting England for the first time you may be wondering what you need to know before you arrive. What things should you do (or not do) when you are visiting the country. To help you plan your first trip to England I have put together some of the best tips I know to ensure you have the best time and avoid any faux pas along the way.

I was born in England and have spent most of my life living in the country (the North-East/Midlands and London) as well as traveling the world. This (hopefully) gives me a great perspective on things visitors should perhaps avoid doing when visiting.

1. DON'T PUSH IN (OR INVADE PERSONAL SPACE)

A big no-no in England is to push in. We have mastered the art of queuing patiently and expect everyone to follow the rules. Join the back of the line and wait!

If you do accidentally push in chances are no one will directly challenge you but there will be a lot of tutting and stares!!

2. DON'T UNDERESTIMATE THE ENGLISH LOVE OF TEA AND TEA BREAKS

Coffee may be popular in England but tea still rules supreme. If you are working in England you will find that everyone takes turns to make the tea. Don't go and make a cuppa without asking the rest of your workmates - it is not the done thing!

If you are visiting make sure to book an afternoon tea at Betty's Tea Rooms (York/Harrogate) or perhaps at the Ritz in London for an extra special treat.

3. AVOID TRAVELING DURING RUSH HOUR

If you can avoid traveling during peak times (in London) or any major city it will not only save you money on fares but also possibly your sanity. If you have to travel when it is busy try to make sure you have a ticket (* an Oyster Card in London) and take note of point 9 below!

4. UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE UK AND GREAT BRITAIN AND ENGLAND!

England is part of the UK and Great Britain. So is Scotland and Wales. They are all countries.

Northern Ireland is part of the UK but NOT Great Britain. It is also a country.

None of them are independent. Yet. Lets see what happens after Brexit...

5. DON'T ATTEMPT OUR REGIONAL ACCENTS

Unless you are a world class mimic you may try but you will fail!

Also please don't try to guess where our accent comes from (unless you are fairly sure!!) If I had a £1 for every time someone asked if I was Scottish I would be living a life of luxury right now.

There are many different regional accents in England and some of them you may struggle to understand particularly when speaking to an elderly person. I remember my friend from Liverpool staying with me in the North East and struggling to understand a word my Grandfather said!

You may hear Brummies. Yam Yams, Scousers, Geordies, Cockneys amongst others. If you are in the UK long enough you should be able to identify the different accents after a while. Check out the video to give you a flavour of the accents you may hear!

6. DON'T JUST STAY IN LONDON

There are so many wonderful places to visit in England so please don't stay in the capital for your entire holiday. If you are looking for ideas there are lots of posts to read in this blog including 80 things to do in England which is a great starting point for planning.

My recommendations?

For history lovers (Hadrian's Wall/Castles) - Northumberland

For nature lovers - The Lake District

For walkers/hikers - Ingleton Waterfalls Trail in Yorkshire

7. KNOW HOW TO RESPOND WHEN SOMEONE SAYS 'YOU ALRIGHT"

You will hear this in a few different contexts!

As a greeting. Expected response - Yes thanks!

To enquire if you have been served at a bar/shop. Expected response - depends if you have already been served!!

To ask if you are feeling ok. This will sound like a question which it is. Expected response - depends how you are feeling!!

I have had great fun in Australia with this one and have had to explain it is a greeting not the Spanish inquisition about their aches, pains and general health.

8. DON'T REFER TO FOOTBALL AS SOCCER

Football was invented in England. It involves 11 players kicking a round ball up and down a pitch for 90 minutes.

The ball is not oval. The players aren't dressed head to foot in padding. And it isn't called soccer!!!

Football is extremely popular in England with matches most Saturday afternoons. Most people support their home team unless its rubbish then they will support Manchester United/Liverpool/Arsenal.

9. DON'T STAND ON THE LEFT SIDE ON ESCALATORS

(OR INCUR THE WRATH OF THE COMMUTER! THE LEFT IS FOR PEOPLE IN A HURRY BECAUSE THEY SLEPT IN)

This is important if you want to avoid basically annoying the entire population of London. Keep to the right so the fitter, younger or late commuters can rush past you at 100 miles an hour.

Some of the stations are deep underground and the escalators steep and long. With the chaos of rush hour and hundreds of busy commuters it pays to know exactly where to stand so you aren't in the way.

Oh and don't make eye contact with anyone on the tube. If you are traveling alone take a book or pick up a free newspaper to ensure no unnecessary eye contact with your fellow passengers!

10. BE PREPARED TO TALK ABOUT THE WEATHER (A LOT!)

The English are pretty obsessed with the weather and will talk about it on a fairly regular basis. If temperatures rise above 16 degrees expect to see people in T-shirts and shorts and above 23 its a heatwave and people will tell you a million times a day that its too hot. Take an umbrella. Most days you will need it.

Also be prepared for the weather to change rapidly. Sunshine one minute and snow and wind the next. And that is just in summer. Think carefully about your packing list for visiting the UK - in fact you can read my recommendations in this post "How to prepare for visiting the UK - a complete packing list!"

11. SOME ENGLISH PLACE NAMES ARE NOT PRONOUNCED THE WAY YOU MAY EXPECT

Some of these places I have to think twice about myself. If you pronounce the names the way they are spelt you will probably hear a few giggles. The list pretty extensive but here is the correct way to pronounce the following:

Torquay - Tor/key

Leamington Spa - Lemmington Spa

Loughborough - Luff/burrah

Cambois - Cam/iss

Alnwick - Ann/ick

Bicester - Bister

Plymouth - Plim/uth

Stroud - Strowd

Morecombe - Mork/um

Berwick - Ber/ick

12. DON'T TALK ABOUT MONEY

Brits aren't particularly comfortable talking about money. It can seem quite brash and show-offy if you share how much you earn/have spent etc. It is a sure fire way to alienate the English middle/working classes who associate wealth with the upper classes.

And definitely don't do it in the north of England.

13. TIPPING IS VOLUNTARY

Tipping is not expected in most places England. If you want to leave a tip for good service in a restaurant a 10% tip is generally the rule of thumb.

If you are taking a London cab just round up the fare as appropriate depending on the length of your journey.

14. DON'T TALK TOO LOUDLY IN RESTAURANTS

Just a little suggestion but visitors from some countries have a reputation for being a little too LOUD. Best to try to keep the conversation with your friends/family/partner between yourselves and not share it with the entire restaurant.

Pubs can be a lot more relaxed though with music, quizzes and a more relaxed atmosphere.

15. DON'T MENTION BREXIT

The country is fairly evenly split between remain and leave and whatever you think about it I would suggest not talking about it. Passions run high on the subject so its best left alone. I would also avoid the capital on days when there are marches planned (particularly by leave supporters)

If you are soon heading to England (the UK or Great Britain) hopefully these tips will give you some idea of the things to do/not do. One little bonus extra point to remember is that most of us actually don't know the Queen. In fact I haven't even seen her in real life and have never been invited round to the Palace for a cuppa. Not yet anyway.

FURTHER INFORMATION FOR VISITING ENGLAND

I have lots of great posts to read all about travel in England to help you plan your visit. This includes recommendations of places to visit as well as more handy tips to ensure you make the most of your time in England.

PIN FOR LATER! VISITING ENGLAND FOR THE FIRST TIME - ESSENTIAL TIPS

YOU MAY ENJOY THESE POSTS TOO!

CLICK FOR EXCLUSIVE ACCESS TO MY RESOURCE LIBRARY

This post may contain compensated links. Please read our disclaimer for additional information.

For food lovers check out my top 20 dishes to try when you visit.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Traveling to England for the first time (15 things every visitor should know)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This post may contain compensated links. Please read our disclaimer for additional information. If you are visiting England for the first time you may be wondering what you need to know before you arrive. What things should you do (or not do) when you are visiting the country.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
United States of America Map with Cities - Free Pictures of Country Maps

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use these handy maps of the United States to find where in North America it is located, which countries share a border with it, what its major cities are called and the location of its capital Washington D.C. You can also check out a range of fun United States facts and a larger version of the United States flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
England Facts for Kids

Learn some interesting information about England while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids!

Read about the famous scientists England has produced, its islands, rivers, mountains, major cities, population and much more.

England is the most populated country in the United Kingdom. The other countries that make up the United Kingdom are Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

England is bordered by Wales to the west and Scotland to the north.

The population of England in 2011 was around 53 million.

The capital city of England is London. Other major cities include Birmingham, Manchester, Sheffield, Liverpool, Newcastle and Leeds.

England includes many small islands such as the Isle of Wight and Hayling Island.

There is only a 34 kilometre (21 mile) gap between England and France and the countries are connected by the Channel Tunnel which opened in 1994.

England was the first industrialized nation after the industrial revolution that began around 1760.

Famous English scientists include Charles Darwin, Michael Faraday, Isaac Newton and Stephen Hawking among many others.

The longest river in the United Kingdom is the River Severn. Located in England and Wales, it stretches around 354 kilometres (220 miles) in length.

The longest river found entirely in England is the River Thames, it flows through London and is slightly shorter than the River Severn at around 346 kilometres (215 miles) in length.

The largest lake in England is named Windermere.

The highest mountain in England is Scafell Pike, which stands at around 978 metres (3,209 ft) in height.

England has a large economy and uses the pound sterling as its currency.

English computer scientist Tim Berners-Lee is credited with inventing the World Wide Web.

There have been a number of influential English authors but perhaps the most well known is William Shakespeare, who wrote classics such as Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth and Hamlet.

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in England but others such as cricket and rugby have large followings.

The Summer Olympic Games have been held in London 3 times, in 1908, 1948 and 2012.

The official London home of the British monarch (king or queen) is Buckingham Palace.

For more information, check out maps of England or take a closer look at the English flag.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun England Facts for Kids - Interesting Information about England

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
England Facts for Kids Learn some interesting information about England while enjoying a range of fun facts and trivia that's perfect for kids! Read about the famous scientists England has produced, its islands, rivers, mountains, major cities, population and much more. England is the most populated country in the United Kingdom.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Wales Map with Cities - Free Pictures of Country Maps

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Improve your geography skills, find resources and information for a project or boost your knowledge of the world with our free pictures of maps from countries around the globe.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In another few weeks, Australia will enter its peak travel season. Millions of visitors from Europe, North America and other parts of the world will flock to the land down under in search of their own adventures.

If you are one of the lucky travelers heading to Australia, here are some Australia travel tips you need to know before you go.

The Great Ocean Road- one of Australia's most popular tourist attractions.

1. AUSTRALIA IS HUGE AND EXTREMELY DIVERSE

Unless you are planning to spend 6 months traveling around the country, you are not going to see it all. It may look small, but looks are deceiving.

Consider this: Australia is the 6th largest country in the world, occupying a territory of 7 692 024 sq. km, which is more than the size of ALL European Union countries. Yet it has one of the lowest population density in the world of only 3.1 people/km

It Takes Time To Get Around

A flight from East Coast (Brisbane) to the West Coast (Perth) will take you 5 .5 hours. If you were even considering a road trip across, you may want to reconsider.

The majority of the Australia population lives along the coast, so unless you are road tripping along the East Coast, prepare to be traveling for days on end without any interesting sites or towns to check out along the way. It's a whole lot of nothingness out there.

A road trip from Cairns to Brisbane is practically impossible in less than 3 days. And even then it's really rushed. Same goes for road-tripping from Brisbane to Sydney.
It will take you over 9 hours to drive from Sydney to Melbourne.
So when you need Australia travel tips for planning a trip to Australia, give yourself lots of time to explore the country.

If you want to city-hop, flying is your only option. If you want to check out off the beaten path towns - give yourself at least a month or two to explore. If you plan with the mindset of more time in fewer places, you'll definitely enjoy it more!

2. AUSTRALIA IS REALLY EXPENSIVE

Budget at least $100-$200 USD per day for accommodation, food, and activities. Transportation will probably be on top of that. If you are looking for Australia travel tips for ways to save on your trip to Australia, consider the following suggestions.

Fly with budget airlines

and Scoot Airways , instead of the full-service airlines like Qantas and Virgin. Unlike in the US, one-way flights in Australia aren't more expensive when compared to return flights.

So don't be afraid to book one leg at a time. Webjet.com.au is the best place to search for domestic flights in Australia.

Travel Overland

Buy a Greyhound hop on/hop off bus pass instead of individual tickets to get from city to city. It is affordable and one of the greenest ways to see the country.

However, if you want the luxury of traveling on your own time without spending a fortune on renting a car, consider renting a relocation campervan and secure your accommodation and transportation for just $1/day plus gas!

WANT TO EXPLORE AUSTRALIA BY CAR or CAMPERVAN?

Get the best car rental rates by booking on our favourite car rental website, . It compares prices across all major car rental companies in Australia, so you are guaranteed to get the best deal.

Opt for B&B Type of Accommodation

If you are traveling as a couple, or with friends, consider staying in accommodation or opt for the smaller family-run B&Bs, as nice hotels across Australia will set you back by no less than$100/night.

Cook your own food

There are lots of great restaurants in Australia, but this isn't Vietnam or India where local food is incredible and cheap. There is no reason to eat out every meal.

There are free public BBQs available in most parks all over Australia. You don't even need your own kitchen and you'll see plenty of Australians doing the exact same thing! Thumbs up for local experiences.

Support local businesses, by going to the farmers' markets instead of visiting local grocery chains. You'll end up paying less for your food and will be making a positive impact on the local community as well!

Drink less. And when you do drink opt to pre-drink before you head out to a bar, or drink at BYO (bring your own alcohol) restaurants.

Drinking at bars in Australia is expensive and will end up killing your budget. If budget is really tight, goon (boxed wine) is your best friend.

3. GET ACQUAINTED WITH THE LOCAL LANGUAGE

There are actually quite a few slangs and differences in Australia English vs American English. Here are just a few examples that you will likely come across on your trip.

Australian to American English Dictionary

If you are out watching a sport with some new "mates", don't ask them who they are rooting for. Rooting means having sex, not cheering. Whenever you want to find the center of the city, don't ask for directions downtown, there they call it CBD (Central Business District).

If you get sick and needs some meds, ask for the nearest chemist, not a pharmacy. Whenever someone invites you to come over for tea, it often means you are being invited for dinner.

A lot of other words are shortened, like arvo - afternoon, not to be confused with avo = avocado, barbie = bbq, bickies = biscuits or cookies, breaky = breakfast and so on.

Your name will most likely also be shortened to something that ends in "y"/"ie" or "z". (Stevie, Robbie, Marky, Caz, Loz, etc)

4. DON'T EXPECT TO BE SURROUNDED BY KANGAROOS AND KOALAS

It is possible to spot them in the wild, but you'd have to venture out to a national park/reserve or further inland, away from the city buzz, to find them.

Sometime you may even spot them in the suburbs or on a golf course. One of the best places to see wildlife in Australia is Kangaroo Island just south of Adelaide.

While kangaroos and koalas aren't common in highly populated areas, other Australian residents are. You will likely see a lot of bats, possums, some snakes, lizards, plenty of spiders and other bugs.

There are also plenty of cool birds around. We lived just outside the city center and we saw cockatoos and rainbow lorikeets on our patio on a weekly basis.

5. MIND YOUR GENEROSITY!

Tipping in Australia is not a common practice. You are not expected to tip in restaurants, bars, or taxis. You don't need to add a tip to your haircut bill or give any money to staff in hotels since they don't always use the best hair clippers and generally charge plenty as is, so noone ever expects a tip..

All workers in Australia are paid significantly better than elsewhere in the world, think $ 18.29 an hour as an absolute minimum, so the busboys and bartenders here aren't relying on them to make a decent living.

Of course, if you really want to acknowledge excellent service, especially if you are dining at a high-end restaurant, you can leave a tip. But if you are out for the night, and leave a few coins behind as a tip at a bar, it's likely that someone will tell you that you've forgotten your change.

Save up that money you would otherwise tip to splurge on eco-friendly accommodation for a few days, to dine at earth-friendly restaurants, or visit ethical attractions.

6. MIND THE SUN!

We don't want to sound like your parents telling you to cover up or don't spend too much time in the sun, but don't! The sun is really strong there, so stock up on sunblock and respect the fact that you may get burned a LOT faster than you would back home, or anywhere else in the world.

No, it's not because the sun here is "different". It's the same sun, but for one environmental reason or another, it has a much stronger effect on the skin here.

South Eastern Queensland has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world! Just 30 mins in the Australian sun is enough to burn you to the crisp. Trust us, we speak from experience.

So balance your time in the sun with time in the shade, wear sunscreen, cover up, and don't forget to stay hydrated to avoid heat stroke. And no, hydrating yourself with beer/cider/goon isn't good enough.

Since sunscreen is a MUST on your Australia packing list. We recommend you choose an ocean-friendly brand like Stream2Sea Biodegradable Sunscreen . You'll be spending a lot of time in the ocean, so be kind to the environment and pack an environmentally friendly variety.

Stay hydrated with a good insulated reusable water bottle with you and refill it straight out of a tap. We recommend HydroFlask , it'll keep your water cold for up to 12 hours even in the hot sun on the beach.

7. AUSTRALIAN WEATHER WILL SURPRISE YOU

Australian summer (December to March) isn't always lovely like the summers are in North America and Europe. It's hot, like really hot. In some parts of the country, it rains a lot.

In 2010 there was so much rain on the East Coast that the whole city of Brisbane flooded. While in other parts it gets so dry, there is news about bushfires on the news on a daily basis.

If you are flexible, plan to visit Australia during the shoulder season - which is October/November or April/May. It's still really warm and sunny but there is a lot less rain and unbearable humidity/heat. And if you must come during the high season - pack an umbrella or a rain jacket.

At the same time, don't assume that Australia is hot all year around. The northern parts of the country, like Darwin and Cairns, are actually fairly warm all year round, but temperatures in other parts of Australia a can go down to -5 °C or lower. Sometimes, it ever snows! Eeeeek!

8. DRINK LOCAL

When choosing drinks for the night, go local. Australia has a ton of great local brands and plenty of micro-breweries that are worth trying while you are here.

Just please don't ask for a pint of Fosters. If you want to go mainstream, try XXXX Gold, Coopers, Hahn, or James Squire instead or even better, opt to support one of the many up and coming craft breweries across the country!

Eco-Friendly Australian Beer

Even better, stick with local "green beer" like the following.

Bare Cove Radler was the first certified carbon neutral beer to enter the Australian market.

Coopers Pale Ale has won heaps of environmental awards, and its brewery produces a surplus of renewable energy that is sent back to the South Australian energy grid.

Mountain Goat Organic Steam Ale was Australia's first organic beer. They use renewable energy at their factory and have water

Cascade Green produces preservative free, and carbon neutral beers. They use recycled and biodegradable products and vegetable ink for their packaging.

4Pines Brewing Company is known for their Save The Pines Program which advocates for a plastic-free Manly Beach, sustainable farming operations and marine and nature conservation.

In other news, Australia's Broo Ltd. is in talks to create the world's most environmentally friendly brewery which will run on renewable energy, and turn out carbon neutral brews.

Follow this for choosing an eco-friendly beer in Australia or abroad!

9. LEARN TO BE OK WITH BEING OFFLINE

Internet in Australia is slow and expensive. Wifi may be available in hotels and some cafes throughout your travels, but more likely than not, the connection will be terrible. Libraries and Mcdonalds do have free wifi, so if you are desperate to get online, go there.

One of the best ways to stay connected on the road is to unlock your mobile phone before you leave home and pick up a Telstra Pay As You Go Sim card. Telstra has the best coverage across the country, so you'll be able to stay connected even in the remote areas.

It'll set you back by $30-60/month, depending on how much data you want to have, but it might be well worth it in the end.

If unlocking your phone is not an option, we recommend investing in a Wifi Hotspot device, like Skyroam that gives you unlimited wifi for just $8/day. And the best part is that you can use it across multiple devices, so the whole family can stay connected at once!

10. YOU WILL PROBABLY REALLY LIKE IT HERE

No actually, you will LOVE it here! You will see the most amazing sunsets, trek through lush green rainforests, swim in the most crystal clear waters and sunbathe on the most beautiful beaches.

You'll meet great people, hear great stories, and go on amazing adventures. You might even jump out of an airplane , learn how to dive, learn how to surf or fall in love with sailing.

You'll see all the amazing things Australia has to offer and be devastated when you have to say goodbye and board your plane back home.

So why not scrap your idea of a holiday in Australia and consider a temporary move here? It's a lot easier than you think!

BEFORE YOU GO: Don't forget travel insurance!
We can't stress enough the importance of travel insurance, especially in a country like Australia. Whether you just plan to explore the cities, do a little bit of hiking, or go extreme (think surfing, scuba diving, or ever skydiving), being protected on your travels is an irreplaceable peace of mind. We learned about the importance of travel insurance the hard way and now we never travel without coverage.
Get a quote through our recommended insurance provider, World Nomads.

Have other questions about traveling to Australia? Leave them in the comments section below and we'll be happy to answer them!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links which means that we receive a small commission on your purchases at no additional cost to you

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Australia Travel Tips: 10 Things You Need to Know Before Traveling to Australia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In another few weeks, Australia will enter its peak travel season. Millions of visitors from Europe, North America and other parts of the world will flock to the land down under in search of their own adventures. If you are one of the lucky travelers heading to Australia, here are some Australia travel tips you need to know before you go.

# data[].attributes.headline
11 Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand

# data[].attributes.subject
11 Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
New Zealand is one of the easiest and most interesting countries to travel around. And, it is a perfect place to visit if you want to travel around by car or camper van.

Those who are outdoor-minded and have adventurous spirits will feel very at home while in New Zealand, and by the end of their travels will be wishing they had more time here.

In order to better prepare for your trip to New Zealand, we've detailed 11 practical tips we learned while traveling around New Zealand's North Island in our rented-out camper van.

11 Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand

1. Be prepared for a strict customs check

When you arrive in New Zealand and go through customs at the airport you will immediately notice that they have a very strict customs check policy.

Even if you mark "nothing to declare" on your customs sheet, you'll be questioned regardless and will likely have your luggage searched. This is particularly true if you are traveling with outdoor gear. When we arrived in New Zealand, the customs searched all of our bags entirely and inspected every inch of our gear. Fortunately, they let us keep everything.

So my biggest tip would be to make sure that your gear is cleaned thoroughly before you pack it, and if you are packing food, make sure that it is closed in its packaging and recognizable. For instance, we packed a bunch of Cliff Bars and customs said that was OK.

Be sure to check the bottom of your shoes too because they will check that as well!

2. There are no poisonous animals or large predatory animals in New Zealand

Rest easy when you are hiking or exploring New Zealand because there are no poisonous insects (except for one spider called the Katipo Spider), snakes or animals here and there are also no large animals on the island.

Unlike most countries where you will have to be aware of the dangerous species when you go into the outdoors, you can check this off of your worry list. In fact, there are absolutely no snakes in the country of New Zealand! Instead, you'll find a lot of sheep and farm animals.

3. New Zealand's summer months are December to February

When planning a trip to New Zealand keep in mind that, like all southern hemisphere countries, the seasons are opposite than that of northern hemisphere countries.

The best time to visit New Zealand if you are hoping to do a lot of outdoor activates will be anywhere from November to April. During its summer months, December to February, you'll find great weather but also more crowds. If your schedule allows, opt to visit New Zealand in the off-summer months like November or April when the weather is still very nice, but there are less crowds and prices are lower.

If you're looking to go skiing though, hit New Zealand up during June to August.

4. Be prepared to drive on the left-hand side of the road

Like many countries in the world, you need to be prepared to drive on the left-hand side of the road in New Zealand.

Before you visit just make sure to know the basic rules of the road and be extra cautious at first. If you're uncertain, look at the traffic around you and get a feel for how everyone else is driving. In the big cities, there will be a lot of roundabouts, so be sure you know which direction to drive on them.

Soon you'll be driving on the left-hand side like a pro.

Also Read: Tips for Driving Abroad for the First Time

5. There is minimal dispersed free camping, you must stay at DOC sites or Holiday Parks

It is commonly misunderstood that you can "freedom" camp, also known as dispersed camping, anywhere you want in New Zealand.

A lot of land is privately owned and therefore cannot be camped on without permission from the owners. Also, historically campers have treated "free" camping poorly in New Zealand, so there are even more strict rules around it.

If you want to free camp in New Zealand, do your research well beforehand.

There are other great options for camping though. You can stay at what is called DOC (Department of Conservation) sites, which are more primitive government owned campground areas which are often located in very beautiful parts of New Zealand. They can range anywhere from free to lower in price range, and the types of sites and rules vary per campground. Check out the DOC website before your visit for a full list of the different DOC campgrounds.

Another great option is to stay at established facilities often referred to as "Holiday Parks". These are still relatively cheap ($20-$40 typically) and include a lot of great amenities including showers, kitchens, and more depending on the Holiday Park. These are located all around New Zealand. When we traveled in our camper van around New Zealand, we sometimes didn't even need to book these sites in advance, there was plenty of availability. If you are traveling during the busy season though, it could be worth booking sites in advance of your travels.

6. Travel New Zealand by camper van!

Traveling by camper van is by far the easiest and most rewarding way to travel around New Zealand. And you will be in good company as a lot of the vehicles on the roads tend to be RV's or camper vans.

Traveling by camper van is a very popular way to travel around the North and South Island and there are a ton of great companies in New Zealand to rent campers from.

As mentioned above, just be aware of where you can and can't camp before traveling to a new destination. You'll find traveling around New Zealand is very easy and everyone is super friendly. If you stay at Holiday Parks you will hardly feel like you are camping at all with all the amenities like kitchens, showers, and sometimes even pools and bars.

7. Hobbiton Evening Tours

If you are a Lord of the Rings fan, you probably have a tour of Hobbiton on your list of places to visit while in New Zealand.

There are tons of day tours that run through the movie set at Hobbiton, but if you want to have an extra-special evening tour with less crowds and a "Hobbit-like" feast, look to book a Hobbiton Evening Tour 4-6 months in advance of your trip. These tours fill up very fast but are a really unique way to enjoy the Hobbiton Movie Set, especially if you are big fan.

8. Internet in New Zealand

We never really had the best internet access in New Zealand.

Many McDonald's would say they have free Wi-Fi, but we always had issues connecting. We usually got the best internet service when staying at holiday parks. This wasn't always free, but sometimes they would give you a certain amount of free Wi-Fi each day. It's best to just prepare yourself for being more disconnected on your visit to New Zealand, or opt for a cell phone plan that allows you to use data there.

9. Restaurants and food in New Zealand

When we traveled to New Zealand we weren't really thinking about the food, and we weren't sure what the country was "known for" as far as food goes.

Our first night, just outside of Auckland, we were introduced to the best fish and chips we have ever had in our lives. Maybe we just haven't had that many fish and chips, but to this day, we still rave about the fish and chips in New Zealand.

The coffee in New Zealand is also excellent nearly everywhere you go. Even if you are getting gas station or roadside café coffee, you will be pleasantly surprised. Opt for the popular "flat-white" coffee to order what locals tend to love the most.

Keep note that many restaurants and shops in the towns might close up earlier than you are used to so plan accordingly. Oh and often-times the condiments (i.e. ketchup, mustard, etc.) are not free. Many times we had to pay extra for condiments, something we aren't accustomed to in the United States.

10. Take advantage of all the unique outdoor activities there are in New Zealand

The most amazing part about New Zealand is its captivating and diverse landscape. Spend less time in the big cities and get out and explore the country!

There are activities for all kinds of adventurers. You can go mountain biking all over the North and South Island. You can hike some of New Zealand's most well-known hikes such as the Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the North Island or the very popular Milford Track on the South Island. And you can find places to rock climb, surf, kayak, and sail all over the islands.

Also, be sure to schedule a tour of the out-of-this-world glow worm caves in Waitomo. And be sure to visit one of New Zealand's many natural hot springs.

11. Take the scenic route and don't be afraid to visit unique unscheduled places on your visit

There are a bunch of amazing scenic road systems throughout New Zealand, and driving around New Zealand is a great way to visit the country.

Don't hesitate to visit unscheduled and less touristy destinations either. One of our best memories from our travels around New Zealand was when we took a side stop to the towns of Tongaporutu and Mokau. We went on some beautiful hikes, saw some really beautiful stretches of New Zealand coastline and it was much less crowded than most places we visited.

I hope these tips will help you plan the perfect trip to New Zealand!
Also Read:
Like this article with things to know before traveling to New Zealand? Pin it!

Author: Allison
Allison is the founder and primary author for the She Dreams of Alpine blog, and works with her partner Michael who helps take most of the photography that can be found on the site. She Dreams of Alpine is an outdoor adventure travel blog that is aimed at those who love not only to travel but to spend a majority of their time in the outdoors hiking, backpacking, and rock climbing their way around the world. She and Michael traveled around New Zealand's North Island via camper van, and they fell in love with the country immediately.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
11 Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
New Zealand is one of the easiest and most interesting countries to travel around. And, it is a perfect place to visit if you want to travel around by car or camper van. Those who are outdoor-minded and have adventurous spirits will feel very at home while in New Zealand, and by the end of their travels will be wishing they had more time here.

# data[].attributes.headline
10 Things to Know Before Visiting South Africa

# data[].attributes.subject
10 Things to Know Before Visiting South Africa

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Language shouldn't be an issue if you can speak English

South Africa boasts an incredible eleven official languages, of which English is one. Most South Africans speak English, even if as a second language, so tourists don't have much trouble communicating. If you do decide to learn a few basic terms in local languages, ensure you also research which languages are spoken in which parts of the country, as not everyone speaks all eleven.

South Africa is a very large country

South Africa is approximately twice the size of France, so don't expect to see it all in a week. Plan your trip by deciding which cities, towns and areas you'd like to visit. Most tourists opt for the bigger cities, like Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban, but there's much more to see than just the main attractions.

Big cities have many similarities to Western countries

Many tourists are surprised when arriving in South Africa that it's very similar to Western countries. The standard of retail shops and restaurants is right up there with the rest of the world. So, if you happen to forget any essentials, from electronics to clothes, you'll be able to easily pick it up in South Africa.

South Africa is great for traveling on a budget

The monetary unit is the South African Rand and everything, including food and alcohol, is well-priced compared to Western countries. Accommodation is also affordable, whether you opt for a hotel-stay, a guest house or self-catering unit.

The food is diverse and cheap

The country boasts amazing restaurants, from fine dining to casual eateries and markets - South Africa is a foodie's dream come true. Whether you'd like to try traditional dishes like "smileys" or "walkie talkies", chow down on a world-class steak or discover delicious vegetarian cuisine, South Africa has it all and more.

You might need a visa

The South African Department of Home Affairs website provides detailed information on which nationalities need visas to travel to South Africa, as well as how to obtain it. Luckily for Europeans, Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders and Americans, they can visit the country for 90 days without the hassle.

Don't be careless with your belongings

South Africa is very tourist-friendly, but just as in most countries topping traveller's lists, pickpockets and scammers are not uncommon. Don't flaunt expensive jewellery or electronics and lock valuables like passports away in your accommodation's safe.

Renting a car is the best way to see it all

Public transport in South Africa can't be compared to that of developed countries. Taxis aren't readily available and the country doesn't make use of a metro system. There is however the Gautrain in Johannesburg and Pretoria, and Uber operates in all big cities. Your best bet, however, is renting a car and road tripping, just remember that South Africans drive on the left.

Drink the water in cities

The water is drinkable in all big cities but double check when visiting smaller towns, the countryside and the bushveld.

You need to go to the bush to see animals

Wild animals don't roam free all over the country, if you want to see the Big Five you'll have to visit the bushveld. The Kruger National Park is a favourite but there are many other fantastic reserves scattered around the country.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Things to Know Before Visiting South Africa

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Language shouldn't be an issue if you can speak English South Africa boasts an incredible eleven official languages, of which English is one. Most South Africans speak English, even if as a second language, so tourists don't have much trouble communicating.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn more about the beautiful Emerald Isle!

# data[].attributes.headline
The Top Tips to Know Before Travelling to Belfast

# data[].attributes.subject
The Top Tips to Know Before Travelling to Belfast

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Where is Belfast?

Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland; part of the UK, the country is the six-county region which sits at the top of the Republic of Ireland. The city lies in County Antrim, east of Northern Ireland's six counties - located approximately one hour south of the North Coast and famous Giant's Causeway and one hour north of Dublin, Republic of Ireland. The River Lagan runs through the city into the Atlantic, making it a primary coastal city in the UK region.

What currency do they use?

As it is part of the UK, you'll need Great British Pounds (GBP) for your trip to Belfast. It's important to know this since most travellers visit Ireland and Northern Ireland together, and you'll need to change currency once you cross the Irish border. There's no physical border, but as a general guideline, the divide runs from Lough Foyle in the North of Ireland to Carlingford Lough in the Republic of Ireland. Most businesses will offer an exchange rate for either currency if you don't have the right one with you.

What is the best way to get around?

Belfast is a small city, so walking is easy and often the most enjoyable way to get around. The Metro bus services run throughout the day, with major pick-up points at either side of City Hall, Central Belfast. Taxis are cheap, modern and extremely safe - one of the best ways to get around at night. It's very easy to travel to and from Dublin in Ireland: the Translink Enterprise train runs between the two cities every two hours. The North Coast is only one hour away by car, with regular buses and trains running to various points of the coast every day.

Belfast is a very safe city - especially in the central area of the city, which is home to great shopping destinations, hotels, bars and restaurants. The atmosphere will feel like a small village in a metropolis, and the people are traditionally friendly and helpful. While it may be quieter than some major cities in the UK, it's generally a safe place to walk at night, even in small groups. You should be cautious when travelling to any city destination, but Belfast is no cause for concern!

Is there still tension between political communities?

Not so much - Belfast has developed into a safe city since The Troubles, in the 1970s. You will notice that certain areas of the city decorate their community streets with either the UK Union Jack or the Irish Tricolour flag - these two communities continue to live alongside one another. People may refer to themselves as British or Irish, but most people will call themselves Northern Irish.

The International Peace Wall is a beautiful collection of murals from nationalist and unionist communities that remember the conflict, and many visitors come to Belfast to see it. If you have any questions, don't be afraid to ask, within reason - the Northern Irish are generally happy to talk about their history and identity. Many visitors like to learn about Belfast's history, but be open-minded too and explore the other great pieces of culture in the city (Hint: The Titanic is a big selling point.)

Can you travel on a budget?

Belfast is one of the cheapest cities in the UK, so you can absolutely travel on a budget. You will find that your money will go a long way; for example, Northern Irish cuisine is among the best in Europe and doesn't come with a heavy price tag. The city is perfect for a weekend getaway or as a stop-off to many other destinations in Ireland and Northern Ireland. Tours are fairly cheap, ranging from food tours to boat trips - one of the quickest ways to check off the must-sees and must-dos on your holiday list!

Is there much to do?

There's a lot to do! In fact, Belfast is home to Europe's Best Attraction, the Titanic Belfast, an exhibition built on the building site of the famous RMS Titanic. The famous docks are not the only reason to visit. Queen's Quarter is home to the beautiful Queen's University, Botanic Gardens and Ulster Museum, and the Cathedral Quarter is a world-class destination for Irish pubs, food and markets.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Top Tips to Know Before Travelling to Belfast

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Where is Belfast? Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland; part of the UK, the country is the six-county region which sits at the top of the Republic of Ireland. The city lies in County Antrim, east of Northern Ireland's six counties - located approximately one hour south of the North Coast and famous Giant's Causeway and one hour north of Dublin, Republic of Ireland.