Check out the below for info on Travelling in Australia and South East Asia, Gap Year and Adventure Travel and some general Backpacking tips.
Along with everything you'll need to know about booking our Group Tours and answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.
South East Asia is one of the most stunningly beautiful and absolutely fascinating regions on the entire planet.
From the tropical islands, post card beaches, crazy nightlife and endless smiles you'll find in Thailand to the raw and natural beauty, mouth watering food and endless adventure of Vietnam.
From the hedonistic lifestyle, awesome accommodation and amazing wildlife (think spotting wild dolphins, snorkelling with turtles and hand feeding wild monkeys) of Bali, Indonesia to the ancient wonders and fascinating history of Cambodia. Or of course the incredible mix of ancient ruins, exotic wildlife, postcard beaches and rolling green tea plantations in Sri Lanka, you've got so much to choose from and discover!
And you'll get all of this for generally a lot cheaper than back home.
Some people choose South East Asia as a short holiday destination or the starting point for a longer backpacking adventure.
Whatever your choice, jumping on one of our South East Asia Group Tours will mean you'll experience the absolute best of each destination, make friends for life and have an epic adventure you'll tell your grandkids about.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling South East Asia just contact us or check out our travel blog.
With thousands of pristine white sandy beaches, stunning and ancient rainforests, world class cities with laid back friendly people, fascinating and unique wildlife, the incredible outback and of course the iconic and breathtakingly beautiful Great Barrier Reef there's little doubt why Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or just backpacking around Australia until your money runs out there's lots of things to consider, sort out and prepare yourself for, so you can make the most of your time in the land down under.
The Oz Intro work & travel package was created to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We start with help sorting your visa, flights, travel insurance and answering all your little random questions before you go. On arrival in Sydney you'll get an instant group of friends and an awesome 9 day group tour showing you the best of Sydney and beyond. As well everything you'll need to live and work in Australia sorted, along with help organising all your awesome onward travel plans. We'll be there to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
Our Oz Adventure trip is the same awesome itinerary as Oz Intro just without the work help. So it's perfect for those coming to Australia on a tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Australia just contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Australia.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Most common backpacker jobs in Australia such as bar work, office/admin, construction and farm work generally pay quite well, starting at around $18-25 per hour.
But finding a job in a new country can be difficult.
By doing Oz Intro you don’t need to worry. We’ll give you everything you need to find work in Australia including exclusive access to our own ‘Oz Jobs’ Program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in Australia such as an Aussie Bank Account, Tax File number and Aussie phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on Oz Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after Oz Intro.
Oz Jobs Program: You’ll get 12 months membership to our Oz Jobs Program. This includes exclusive access to our Oz Jobs App, where we post lots of great job opportunities every day from our Australia wide network of employers.
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your Group Leader will give you a comprehensive ‘Work in Oz’ presentation, as well as one on one advice and support on CV Building, Job Finding, Interview Skills and anything else you’ll need to secure a great job in Australia.
Office Support: Our Sydney office is your home away from home and base for finding work. With unlimited free internet, printers, jobs boards and lots of friendly staff to help you.
Farm Work & 2nd Year Visas: If you do 88 days of regional or farm work in Australia you can apply for a 2nd Working Holiday Visa. We’ll give you lots more info on this during Oz Intro, will help you find farm work and will also help you apply for your 2nd Year Visa.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how Tax & Superannuation works in Australia, and can organise any refunds you may be due, so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, don't worry you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting and positive ways to experience a new destination. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing new people, making awesome new friends and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip ends a lot of people will continue to travel with the friends they've made.
Our groups fill up fast, so the earlier you book the better.
Payment
If it's more than 28 days before your start date you can reserve a space on a group by completing a booking and paying a $200 / £100 deposit. Full payment must be made at least 28 days before your start date.If you're making a new booking within 28 days of your start date you’ll need to pay in full to confirm your space.
Flexible Deposits
Stuff happens, plans change, so if you can’t travel for any reason you can move your date to any date in the future. Or even just ‘open date’ your booking and decide your travel date later. You can also swap your tour for any other tour.If you tell us more than 14 days before your start date than it's free to do this. If it’s within 14 days than there will be a $200 / £100 charge.
Are flights included?
Our trips do not include international flights to and from the destination. Some trips include an internal flight.Booking your flight:
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date of our tours as there’s no activities on the first day, so you’ll have plenty of time to recover from your flight and meet everyone in your group.
We work closely with STA Travel who can help you find a great deal on your flight. They guarantee to beat any price, offer tickets with great flexibility in case your plans change and even offer a $99 deposit so you can secure your flight easily!
They know our start dates and can even get you booked onto the same flight as other people in your group!
To get a quote on a flight simply choose ‘Yes’ on our booking form and a Consultant from STA Travel will contact you. You can also call STA on 0161 667 0078 (UK) or 0161 537 7910 (Oz) or email introtravel@statravel.co.uk (UK) or introtravel.au@statravel.com (Oz).
Please note that the below information is of a general nature and visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate before travelling. If you’re unsure of your visa requirements or need further help just contact us.
Visas for Australia:
You must have a valid visa to enter Australia. Most of our Oz Intro group members get either a 12 month Working Holiday Visa or a 3 month Tourist Visa. We can apply for your visa so you don’t have to worry! There are a few different visas for going backpacking in Australia and it’s important you understand the conditions of your visa.
Click here to see your visa options.
Visas for Thailand:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil do not require a visa for Thailand. As long as you have a passport with at least 6 months validity then you will receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. However some nationalities (e.g. Colombian, Mexican) must apply for their visa beforehand.Visas for Bali:
Most nationalities will receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Bali. This visa is free for most nationalities and costs approximately $35USD for others. Some nationalities (e.g. Colombian) must apply for their visa beforehand.Visas for Vietnam:
Depending on your nationality and how long you’re planning on staying in Vietnam there are a few options:Visas for Cambodia:
Most nationalities are able to get a visa on arrival in Cambodia. The visa on arrival is for a maximum of 30 days and costs approx. $35USD and will be payable on arrival in cash. Some nationalities may need to make advance arrangements.
Visas for Sri Lanka:
Most nationalities require a visa or ETA (electronic travel authority) to enter Sri Lanka. The visa is typically for 30 days and can be done on arrival at the airport or online at http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/and costs approx. $35USD.
*As of August 1st 2019, visas on arrival are temporarily being offered for free.
Visas for Japan:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil will generally receive a 90-day visa on arrival for free.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our Asia trips and highly recommended for our Australia trips. Click here to organise a quote and policy for yourself.
Deciding whether to get vaccinated before you travel is a personal choice. There are no mandatory vaccinations for any of our destinations and all areas we travel to are very low risk. If you’re unsure or need advice we recommend visiting your local GP or checking out this link.
How much spending money will I need?
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa and plan on staying in Australia for at least a few months then we recommend arriving with at least $3000 / £2000.
South East Asia: Our trips in Asia range from 9 to 18 days. All activities, accommodation, transport and some meals are included so you’ll just need money for extra meals, drink, shopping and onward travel. We recommend bringing at least $500 / £300 spending money.
What’s the best way to access my money?
Australia: If you’re on a WHV then we’ll open up a local Bank account for you. So we recommend transferring your money into your new Aussie bank account. That way you’ll avoid international bank fees.
South East Asia: It’s best to take a Visa or Master Card debit, credit or travel money card. There are ATM’s available throughout all our destinations so it’s easy to get access to cash. Some places accept credit card but not all.
Backpack or a Suitcase? And how much should I bring?
We always recommend travelling with a backpack and packing light! 10-20kgs of stuff should be plenty. And because it’s often quite hot in our destinations dragging around a huge suitcase is not cool !
When is the best time to travel?
We operate our trips 12 months of the year. Although our destinations have different seasons that can bring different weather there’s no real ‘bad’ time of year to travel with us!
Once you book you’ll get access to our Check in Area to complete all parts of your booking and ensure you're ready to go. You'll also be prompted to download the INTRO Travel App, which has all the important information you'll need for your trip with us including stuff to get sorted before you go, a packing checklist, your itinerary, country info and everything you'll need to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Responsible travel is a philosophy we take seriously.
Some important areas of our responsible travel policy include:
We've also created our own socially conscious initiative called Small Change aimed at making a positive difference to the destinations we operate in.
Most of our trips provide a personal airport pickup. Before you travel you’ll receive detailed info on where to go to start your INTRO tour.
How many people will be in my group?
Australia: Groups average 10-16 people with a max of 22.South East Asia: Groups average 16-20 people with a max of 22. Occasionally we will run ‘double’ groups during busy periods in Thailand. Which can mean up to 36 people on one start date split between two Group Leaders.
What happens if I’m travelling alone?
In Asia most of our accommodation is twin or triple share, so we will put you in a room with someone of the same gender. Occasionally there are private room options for an extra charge.
What nationalities will be on the trip with me?
There will often be a mix of nationalities on our trips, especially in Asia. i.e. UK, European, Australian, New Zealand, American, Canadian, South American etc
Will I get by without knowing the local language?
In the majority of places we visit the locals speak English. We’ll also teach you some key words and phrases to help you get by and have more fun!A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after trip support. Your Group Leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can organise and book whatever you need including any other transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip and will always be there to help when you need it.
Please head to our Terms & Conditions page for our full T&C's & Privacy Policy. Click here
If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us!
You can message us on Live Chat, Email us, or call us.
Check out the below for info on Travelling in Australia and South East Asia, Gap Year and Adventure Travel and some general Backpacking tips.
Along with everything you'll need to know about booking our Group Tours and answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.
South East Asia is one of the most stunningly beautiful and absolutely fascinating regions on the entire planet.
From the tropical islands, post card beaches, crazy nightlife and endless smiles you'll find in Thailand to the raw and natural beauty, mouth watering food and endless adventure of Vietnam.
From the hedonistic lifestyle, awesome accommodation and amazing wildlife (think spotting wild dolphins, snorkelling with turtles and hand feeding wild monkeys) of Bali, Indonesia to the ancient wonders and fascinating history of Cambodia. Or of course the incredible mix of ancient ruins, exotic wildlife, postcard beaches and rolling green tea plantations in Sri Lanka, you've got so much to choose from and discover!
And you'll get all of this for generally a lot cheaper than back home.
Some people choose South East Asia as a short holiday destination or the starting point for a longer backpacking adventure.
Whatever your choice, jumping on one of our South East Asia Group Tours will mean you'll experience the absolute best of each destination, make friends for life and have an epic adventure you'll tell your grandkids about.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling South East Asia just contact us or check out our travel blog.
With thousands of pristine white sandy beaches, stunning and ancient rainforests, world class cities with laid back friendly people, fascinating and unique wildlife, the incredible outback and of course the iconic and breathtakingly beautiful Great Barrier Reef there's little doubt why Australia is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world.
Whether you plan on taking a short holiday, working holiday, gap year or just backpacking around Australia until your money runs out there's lots of things to consider, sort out and prepare yourself for, so you can make the most of your time in the land down under.
The Oz Intro work & travel package was created to take the hassle out of your big adventure and transform you into the ultimate backpacker. We start with help sorting your visa, flights, travel insurance and answering all your little random questions before you go. On arrival in Sydney you'll get an instant group of friends and an awesome 9 day group tour showing you the best of Sydney and beyond. As well everything you'll need to live and work in Australia sorted, along with help organising all your awesome onward travel plans. We'll be there to ensure you have the trip of a lifetime!
Our Oz Adventure trip is the same awesome itinerary as Oz Intro just without the work help. So it's perfect for those coming to Australia on a tourist visa.
For more info, advice and tips on travelling Australia just contact us or check out our Ultimate Guide to Backpacking Australia.
Working abroad should be a fun, rewarding experience. Most common backpacker jobs in Australia such as bar work, office/admin, construction and farm work generally pay quite well, starting at around $18-25 per hour.
But finding a job in a new country can be difficult.
By doing Oz Intro you don’t need to worry. We’ll give you everything you need to find work in Australia including exclusive access to our own ‘Oz Jobs’ Program.
Before You Start: There's a bunch of important things you’ll need before you start working in Australia such as an Aussie Bank Account, Tax File number and Aussie phone number. You'll get all of this sorted for you on Oz Intro.
Training Courses: Certain jobs such as bar work and construction require you to complete specific training. We’ll explain what’s needed and can book you onto all necessary training courses after Oz Intro.
Oz Jobs Program: You’ll get 12 months membership to our Oz Jobs Program. This includes exclusive access to our Oz Jobs App, where we post lots of great job opportunities every day from our Australia wide network of employers.
Unlimited Help & Advice: Your Group Leader will give you a comprehensive ‘Work in Oz’ presentation, as well as one on one advice and support on CV Building, Job Finding, Interview Skills and anything else you’ll need to secure a great job in Australia.
Office Support: Our Sydney office is your home away from home and base for finding work. With unlimited free internet, printers, jobs boards and lots of friendly staff to help you.
Farm Work & 2nd Year Visas: If you do 88 days of regional or farm work in Australia you can apply for a 2nd Working Holiday Visa. We’ll give you lots more info on this during Oz Intro, will help you find farm work and will also help you apply for your 2nd Year Visa.
Tax Stuff: We’ll help you understand how Tax & Superannuation works in Australia, and can organise any refunds you may be due, so you’ll have more money to spend on your travels.
If you're struggling to convince your friends to join you on an adventure, don't worry you're not alone!
Travelling solo on a group tour can be one of the most exciting and positive ways to experience a new destination. You leave yourself open to meeting amazing new people, making awesome new friends and can keep yourself and your onward travel plans flexible.
The majority of our group members are solo travellers, so joining one of our group tours is a great way to meet people and make friends. Before your trip starts we'll put you in touch with the rest of your group so you can start chatting and get to know each other. And after the trip ends a lot of people will continue to travel with the friends they've made.
Our groups fill up fast, so the earlier you book the better.
Payment
If it's more than 28 days before your start date you can reserve a space on a group by completing a booking and paying a $200 / £100 deposit. Full payment must be made at least 28 days before your start date.If you're making a new booking within 28 days of your start date you’ll need to pay in full to confirm your space.
Flexible Deposits
Stuff happens, plans change, so if you can’t travel for any reason you can move your date to any date in the future. Or even just ‘open date’ your booking and decide your travel date later. You can also swap your tour for any other tour.If you tell us more than 14 days before your start date than it's free to do this. If it’s within 14 days than there will be a $200 / £100 charge.
Are flights included?
Our trips do not include international flights to and from the destination. Some trips include an internal flight.Booking your flight:
It’s best to arrive on the actual start date of our tours as there’s no activities on the first day, so you’ll have plenty of time to recover from your flight and meet everyone in your group.
We work closely with STA Travel who can help you find a great deal on your flight. They guarantee to beat any price, offer tickets with great flexibility in case your plans change and even offer a $99 deposit so you can secure your flight easily!
They know our start dates and can even get you booked onto the same flight as other people in your group!
To get a quote on a flight simply choose ‘Yes’ on our booking form and a Consultant from STA Travel will contact you. You can also call STA on 0161 667 0078 (UK) or 0161 537 7910 (Oz) or email introtravel@statravel.co.uk (UK) or introtravel.au@statravel.com (Oz).
Please note that the below information is of a general nature and visa requirements can change, so it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate before travelling. If you’re unsure of your visa requirements or need further help just contact us.
Visas for Australia:
You must have a valid visa to enter Australia. Most of our Oz Intro group members get either a 12 month Working Holiday Visa or a 3 month Tourist Visa. We can apply for your visa so you don’t have to worry! There are a few different visas for going backpacking in Australia and it’s important you understand the conditions of your visa.
Click here to see your visa options.
Visas for Thailand:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil do not require a visa for Thailand. As long as you have a passport with at least 6 months validity then you will receive a 30-day visa exemption on arrival. However some nationalities (e.g. Colombian, Mexican) must apply for their visa beforehand.Visas for Bali:
Most nationalities will receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Bali. This visa is free for most nationalities and costs approximately $35USD for others. Some nationalities (e.g. Colombian) must apply for their visa beforehand.Visas for Vietnam:
Depending on your nationality and how long you’re planning on staying in Vietnam there are a few options:Visas for Cambodia:
Most nationalities are able to get a visa on arrival in Cambodia. The visa on arrival is for a maximum of 30 days and costs approx. $35USD and will be payable on arrival in cash. Some nationalities may need to make advance arrangements.
Visas for Sri Lanka:
Most nationalities require a visa or ETA (electronic travel authority) to enter Sri Lanka. The visa is typically for 30 days and can be done on arrival at the airport or online at http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/and costs approx. $35USD.
*As of August 1st 2019, visas on arrival are temporarily being offered for free.
Visas for Japan:
Most nationalities including the UK, Europe, Australia, NZ, Canada, USA, Scandinavia and Brazil will generally receive a 90-day visa on arrival for free.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all our Asia trips and highly recommended for our Australia trips. Click here to organise a quote and policy for yourself.
Deciding whether to get vaccinated before you travel is a personal choice. There are no mandatory vaccinations for any of our destinations and all areas we travel to are very low risk. If you’re unsure or need advice we recommend visiting your local GP or checking out this link.
How much spending money will I need?
Australia: If you’re on a Working Holiday Visa and plan on staying in Australia for at least a few months then we recommend arriving with at least $3000 / £2000.
South East Asia: Our trips in Asia range from 9 to 18 days. All activities, accommodation, transport and some meals are included so you’ll just need money for extra meals, drink, shopping and onward travel. We recommend bringing at least $500 / £300 spending money.
What’s the best way to access my money?
Australia: If you’re on a WHV then we’ll open up a local Bank account for you. So we recommend transferring your money into your new Aussie bank account. That way you’ll avoid international bank fees.
South East Asia: It’s best to take a Visa or Master Card debit, credit or travel money card. There are ATM’s available throughout all our destinations so it’s easy to get access to cash. Some places accept credit card but not all.
Backpack or a Suitcase? And how much should I bring?
We always recommend travelling with a backpack and packing light! 10-20kgs of stuff should be plenty. And because it’s often quite hot in our destinations dragging around a huge suitcase is not cool !
When is the best time to travel?
We operate our trips 12 months of the year. Although our destinations have different seasons that can bring different weather there’s no real ‘bad’ time of year to travel with us!
Once you book you’ll get access to our Check in Area to complete all parts of your booking and ensure you're ready to go. You'll also be prompted to download the INTRO Travel App, which has all the important information you'll need for your trip with us including stuff to get sorted before you go, a packing checklist, your itinerary, country info and everything you'll need to ensure your trip runs smoothly.
Responsible travel is a philosophy we take seriously.
Some important areas of our responsible travel policy include:
We've also created our own socially conscious initiative called Small Change aimed at making a positive difference to the destinations we operate in.
Most of our trips provide a personal airport pickup. Before you travel you’ll receive detailed info on where to go to start your INTRO tour.
How many people will be in my group?
Australia: Groups average 10-16 people with a max of 22.South East Asia: Groups average 16-20 people with a max of 22. Occasionally we will run ‘double’ groups during busy periods in Thailand. Which can mean up to 36 people on one start date split between two Group Leaders.
What happens if I’m travelling alone?
In Asia most of our accommodation is twin or triple share, so we will put you in a room with someone of the same gender. Occasionally there are private room options for an extra charge.
What nationalities will be on the trip with me?
There will often be a mix of nationalities on our trips, especially in Asia. i.e. UK, European, Australian, New Zealand, American, Canadian, South American etc
Will I get by without knowing the local language?
In the majority of places we visit the locals speak English. We’ll also teach you some key words and phrases to help you get by and have more fun!A big part of the INTRO Travel difference is our after trip support. Your Group Leader will spend enough time as needed to ensure you are comfortable and confident with where you’re going next. And can organise and book whatever you need including any other transport, accommodation or trips you may want. We'll also provide 24/7 support and advice after your trip and will always be there to help when you need it.
Please head to our Terms & Conditions page for our full T&C's & Privacy Policy. Click here
If you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact us!
You can message us on Live Chat, Email us, or call us.
