What makes Australia one of the top 10 tourism hot spots? Many whom have been there will tell you that the wildlife was the reason for their choice in destination. Travel Agencies are covered in posters or brochures calling out the Crocodile Dun Dee in all of us. With such a vast species of wildlife in Australia, the largest group called the marsupials claims most of land. This wondrous group of animals includes the wombats, wallabies, Tasmanian devils, as well as the beloved Kangaroos and Koalas.

Those young and young at heart always seem to enjoy the ever popular marsupials as they dine on their eucalyptus. These adorable koalas are nocturnal making their lazy day behavior that much more cuddly and cute to all who have the chance to see them. We often hear the term koala bears when in fact; they are not bears at all. Rather they are related to the kangaroo. These adorable creatures can to live up to 17 years if it weren’t for the fact that they are in danger of extinction. Yes, extinction. This is due to their natural habitat being destroyed all around them.

Like the beloved koala, kangaroos are just as amazing with 40 wonderfully different species. These kangaroos are enormous and are the world’s largest marsupial. Many kangaroos are taller than the average human. One amazing fact is that kangaroos are not able to walk backwards. Hence, they are often used as the symbol of Australia signifying moving forward and never moving back.

One of the rarest animals in Australia is the bandicoot. These insect and plants eating creatures are very small when in comparison to the great kangaroo. The Looney Toon cartoon character that we all loved and adored called the Tasmanian Devil, was responsible for the popularity the real animal was rewarded. Despite all the popularity, these animals live alone only coming out at night to feast.

Snakes cover much of the land in Australia with about 140 species. Thank goodness only ten percent are actually poisonous. If you’re looking for danger, you’ll find it in the thick Australian rainforest. This is you’ll find some of the deadliest and most poisons snakes in the entire world. If you would like a piece of danger from afar, be sure to listen out for the Dingo dog. Although a dog, you won’t hear it bark. You will however, hear howls from many miles away similar to that of a wolf. These wild dogs feast on our beloved kangaroos and wallabies.

Let’s not forget about the aquatic animals of Australia. You won’t find these animals anywhere else in the world thus adding to Australia’s uniqueness. Why are there so many amazing and exotic animals in Australia? This is greatly due the fact that Antarctica and Australia were once connected. The continent of Australia drifted away about 55 million years ago. Once Australia was out there on its own, nature took its course and an evolutionary process begun. This process alone brought about the vast variety and diverse number of animal species.

As much as Australia is known for all these wonderful and amazing species, many are in danger of extinction due to the increasingly degrading forest and rise in population. This is why so many advocates of animal welfare are working with the Australian government. Their goal is to hold fast and preserves these treasures. For, they are not only treasures to their native land of Australia. They are now considered to be national treasures as well.

Before you pack those bags and head out for your Australian getaway, take a minute to learn about these fun facts that you are sure to find handy on your memorable vacation. These fun facts are sure to be a hoot that I bet you didn’t know about. So, it’s time to clear your throat and polish up on your Australian accent mate!

There is an array of exotic delicacies to choose from when in Australia. From basic pancakes served during dinner to a meal called the “bush-tucker”. Beware; this dish includes kangaroo, turkey and lizard meat which are popular amongst the locals. Eat it if you dare but, be sure to pack your Tums. When in doubt, pick the pancakes. Breakfast for dinner doesn’t sound too bad now does it?

When in Australia, visitors should be sure to visit the Great Barrier Reef. This reef is the largest in the world. It is a major tourist attraction and for good reason. You can actually mail your postcards directly from the reef itself. The reef has a mailbox that tourist can use when they ferry out to it. How cool is that?

Australia has one of the flattest terrains around and is the only country that takes up the entire continent. No wonder why we get confused. Is Australia is a continent or a country? I don’t doubt that you are aware that Australia has many species of animals but, did you know that there are about 1500 hundred species of spiders in Australia? Yes, I said 1500 hundred. That number is sure to bring out the arachnophobia in all of us. Oh yeah, and the Tasmanian devil’s jaw is just as strong as a crocodile. There go those Looney Toon images where the Tanzanian devil is just running around looking confused. Oh contraire, when they bite down, they mean business. But the koala bears are still cute and cuddly right? Don’t be so sure and don’t distract them from eating their favorite eucalyptus leaves they get really cranky.

It sounds like all fun and games with these facts but, they can prove quite useful when navigating around the country. Don’t be surprised and please don’t complain if you receive a plastic bill. There is no joke being played. You will avoid a potential argument if you simply remember that Australian money is actually made of plastic. Now when it comes to fashion and hairstyles, everyone has their own “flair” sort of speak. If you’re looking to get a trim, I’d advise that you make it very clear as to what you’re expecting in your haircut. The outdated Mullet and Mohawks are common haircuts and considered to be sexy and cool to those in Australia. If not careful you may walk out thinking you got stuck in a time warp.

Going to Australia to party with the locals? Yeah, well I hope you have big wallet. Alcohol is ridiculously expensive landing you in the poor house before you know it. It doesn’t mean that you can drink but, be wary of what you order. If you wish to save some green, you could always try the “goon”. It is much cheaper than the alcohol you are used to but it is still potent. This local “goon” is an Australian wine that is pretty decent considering.

So go ahead and finish packing. Now that you are equipped with some new facts about Australia, you can rest assure you won’t’ get yourself into too much trouble and you won’t die of culture shock. Finding your way shouldn’t be a problem anymore but, you can always rely on a little help from some friendly blokes to point you in the right direction as well.