- Tasmania is an island off the south coast of Australia.
- The island is known for its untouched nature, rugged coastline and captivating wildlife.
- American travelers will feel instantly at home in Tasmania, but don’t be fooled – the island’s allure lies in its ability to surprise and inspire with stunning views.
The US is full of beautiful landscapes, but there’s something to be said about experiencing the power of nature on the other side of the world.
Embarking on a trip to Tasmania, Australia, is like entering a realm where the familiar meets the extraordinary. For first-time visitors looking to start ticking off bucket list destinations, Tasmania offers a unique blend of comfort and adventure – with a nice day out to welcome you. Situated on the southern coast of the continent, Tasmania boasts pristine wilderness, rugged coastlines and captivating wildlife.
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With English as the main language and a culture of warmth and hospitality, American travelers will feel instantly at ease. But make no mistake, the island’s allure lies in its stunning views.
From exploring ancient rainforests to delivering culinary surprises, Tasmania promises an unforgettable escape. I first visited the island in May, at the beginning of the Australian winter, and my jaw dropped most of the time. Here’s what you need to know before planning your trip to Tassie.
1. The flights are exactly what you would expect
There are no direct flights from the USA to Tasmania. You will have to connect via Sydney or Melbourne to Launceston or Hobart. I went from Washington, DC, to San Francisco, to Melbourne and Launceston. It was terrible, I’m not going to lie. Next time I go, I’ll spend a day on the West Coast before boarding the 14-hour flight between the US and Australia.
My recommendation is to take a red-eye flight to Australia and use it to sleep and change time zones.
Flight availability from the US to Melbourne and Sydney (for transfer to Tasmania) is plentiful, with several major airlines offering scheduled routes. Travelers can choose from direct flights from major US cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, Dallas and even New York (with direct service to Auckland). Airlines such as United, American, Delta, Hawaiian, Qantas and Air New Zealand offer direct services.
(New direct service from Dallas to Brisbane via American Airlines is expected to launch in October, and from Los Angeles to Brisbane via Delta in December.)
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2. Americans need a visa to enter the country
American travelers should be aware of visa requirements before heading down.
US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) or eVisitor visa, which can be easily obtained online before departure.
The process is simple, typically requiring basic personal information and a valid passport. Once approved, the visa allows multiple entries into Australia for up to 90 consecutive days over a 12-month period. I downloaded the Australian ETA app (iOS and Android), filled out a quick form and my visa was granted in less than an hour.
3. Don’t worry about the time difference
There is a 14 hour time difference compared to the east coast of the USA. It sounds complicated, but just accept it.
The unique advantage of Tasmania’s 14-hour time difference is that you can truly disconnect and savor your vacation. The time zones below can offer the perfect balance between relaxation and connectivity. Travelers can immerse themselves in the serene landscapes and vibrant culture during the day, while still having a few hours in the morning and evening to connect with loved ones back home. It is the ideal setting for those looking to relax without completely losing touch.
4. Connection with nature
Travelers can immerse themselves in Tasmania’s stunning nature through a variety of experiences.
At Cradle Mountain in Lake St. Clair National Park, visitors can hike rugged trails and take in stunning alpine views. If you visit at night, you can enjoy views of the beautiful wildlife with McDermotts Coaches.
But it’s okay if you don’t like hiking. For a unique adventure, truffle hunting at The Truffle Farm in Deloraine offers another way to explore the island’s culinary practices. Wine enthusiasts can savor Tasmanian flavors at Clover Hill Winery in Lebrina, known for its exquisite sparkling wines and picturesque vineyards.
Whether hiking through pristine landscapes, in search of gourmet delights or indulging in fine wines, Tasmania offers something for every nature lover.
5. Nothing will probably kill you
We’ve all seen videos on social media of Australians fighting large snakes or spiders, but you can relax.
Fear of wildlife is often great for travelers, but Tasmania is free of large predators, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Here, you can explore lush forests and pristine coastlines without fear of being eaten.
Tasmania’s unique ecosystem is home to creatures such as Tasmanian devils (which are incredibly rare to see – I didn’t see them either), puggles, platypuses, pademelons, wombats and wallabies, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all visitors.
There are three types of snakes in Tasmania, and although two of them can be dangerous to humans, it is extremely rare to encounter them, according to Tourism Australia.
6. The food scene has something for everyone
You won’t go hungry in Tasmania. Far from it.
Tasmania’s food scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, reflecting the island’s culinary influences. From fresh seafood caught in crystal clear waters to farm-to-table produce, there is something for every palate. The influences of British, Mediterranean and Asian cuisines converge, creating a unique gastronomic experience. Visitors can enjoy everything from gourmet meals at Hobart’s best restaurants to artisan cheeses and local wines at country restaurants.
The cafe scene deserves a special mention. The great people of Melbourne will claim to have the best coffee in the world, but Tasmania is right there with them.
Stop by Tatler Lane by Sweetbrew in Launceston for a perfect cuppa, delicious food and a great atmosphere.
7. Easy access to a different side of the world
Once in Australia, travelers can enjoy affordable flights to explore the continent and beyond.
Budget airlines offer frequent, low-cost flights to other Australian cities. This opens up opportunities for reasonably priced trips to exciting neighboring destinations such as Bali, Japan, Fiji or New Zealand. These nearby countries are just a few hours away by plane, so you can expand your adventure without breaking the bank.
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The reporter for this story was given access to this event by Tourism Australia. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.
