Launceston: The bluest sky you've ever seen.
1. How to Apply for a Passport and Visa 🛂
Passport application: If you don't have a passport, you can go to your local immigration office or make an appointment online. You will need to bring your ID card (original and photocopy), household registration, photos (taken as required), and a passport application form. Generally, passport applications can be completed within 10-15 working days.
Visa application: Chinese tourists traveling to Australia need to apply for an Australian visitor visa (600 visa). You can submit your visa application online on the official website of the Australian Immigration Bureau. You will need to prepare the following materials:
Passport scan
Personal photo
Detailed travel plan
Bank deposit certificate
Round-trip air ticket and hotel booking certificate. Visa approval usually takes 2-4 weeks, so it is recommended to plan your application in advance.
2. How to Get to Launceston from China ✈
There are currently no direct flights from China to Launceston. You need to transfer to major cities in Australia such as Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane, and then take a domestic flight to Launceston. Here are some common flight options:
Beijing/Shanghai/Guangzhou to Sydney: These cities all have direct flights to Sydney, with a flight time of about 11-12 hours.
Sydney to Launceston: The flight from Sydney to Launceston takes about 2 hours and is very convenient.
It is recommended to book your flight in advance to ensure more choices and enjoy lower fares.
3. Transportation Guide After Arriving in Launceston 🚗
Airport transportation: Launceston Airport is about 15 kilometers from the city center. After arriving at the airport, you can choose from several transportation options to the city:
Taxi: Go directly to the city center, the cost is about 40 Australian dollars.
Airport bus: An economical choice, running between the airport and major hotels in the city center, the fare is about 15-20 Australian dollars.
City transportation: Launceston is not a big city, and most attractions can be visited on foot. If you plan to explore the surrounding natural scenery, renting a car is a good choice. The roads in Tasmania are in good condition, the driving scenery is beautiful, and it is very suitable for self-driving travel.
4. Must-see Natural and Cultural Attractions 📸
Cataract Gorge: Launceston's most famous natural landscape, the magnificent gorge, river, and suspension bridge attract countless tourists. You can choose to take a cable car to overlook the gorge, or walk along the riverside path to enjoy the tranquil natural scenery.
Tamar Valley: This is one of Tasmania's most famous wine regions. You can take a winery tasting tour, experience Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grown in a cool climate, and experience Tasmania's unique wine culture.
Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery: One of Australia's oldest museums, it displays Tasmania's rich history and art works, suitable for tourists interested in culture.
5. Launceston's Food and Shopping 🍽
Food: Launceston offers a variety of dining options. From exquisite restaurants to cozy cafes, you can taste local Tasmanian specialties. Don't forget to try Tasmania's seafood, especially oysters, scallops, and salmon. In addition, local beef and mutton are also famous for their high quality.
Shopping: There are many boutiques and farmers markets in the city center where you can buy unique Tasmanian honey, dairy products, handicrafts, etc. Design Tasmania is an ideal place to buy works by local designers.
6. Other Practical Travel Tips 💡
Best time to travel: Launceston's summer (December to February) is the best time to travel, with moderate temperatures and suitable for outdoor activities. But the weather in spring and autumn (September to November, March to May) is also quite pleasant, with relatively few tourists.
Time difference: Tasmania is 2-3 hours ahead of China, depending on whether daylight saving time is used.
Language and currency: The local language is English and the currency is Australian dollars. You can easily exchange currency at banks or ATMs in the city.