Sydney - Jet Lag, DVT, Left Luggage, Lost Property

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Jet Lag

jetlag Unfortunately, if you're travelling long-haul to Australia, then some degree of jet lag or tiredness will be an inevitable and unwelcome part of your journey. That said, there are a few simple things you can do to reduce fatigue during your flight. Before setting off make sure all your personal and business affairs are in order. Worrying about what happens at work when you're away doesn't bode well for a relaxing trip. And don't pack at the last minute, a decent night's sleep is essential, especially if you're driving to the airport!

In the same way that long distance runners take on water during a race, fluids are essential on a long-haul flight. Water is better than coffee, tea or fruit juices. Alcohol is a big no no as it takes less time to become intoxicated in the air than on the ground (this may appeal to some though). That said, if you do indulge, stick to white wine, gin or vodka rather than red wine, Port or whisky.

Taking off shoes will ease the pressure on your feet, while a travel pillow, night shade and ear plugs all increase your chances of getting some quality sleep during the flight. Moreover, in light of recent public concern about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) medical experts now advise passengers to take an aspirin and stretch their legs regularly. If this means inconveniencing others by getting out of your seat then so be it. Two companies have also recently produced the first mass-market 'compression socks' which are designed to create a massage effect for the legs, thus reducing the likelihood of blood clotting. For more information visit the Scholl website at www.schollflightsocks.co.uk or www.activahealthcare.co.uk (both UK based, although similar products should also be available in North America, Europe and other overseas territories).

Oh, and before we forget, try not to look at your watch too often during the flight. Psychologically it's bad news as it reinforces your usual body cycle (e.g. at midnight I always go to sleep). Taking a nap when you need really to, rather than when routine dictates is the key here. Finally, there are tablets available which claim to provide an effective remedy to jet lag. Sleeping pills are definitely out though, as they're similar in form to anti-histamines and dehydrate you even more.

A useful 'Airline Seat Guide', which gives you the lowdown on carriers offering the best seat pitch dimensions (and seat width) can be found at: www.airlinequality.com. Oh, and the passenger opinions section is very enlightening too!

Language

For most people with at least a working knowledge of English, the only mild difficulty you're likely to come across is the use of Aussie slang. Who for example would know that a "dunny" is a toilet or that "ripper" or "bonzer" mean really good (unless they regularly watch Neighbours or caught Paul Hogan in Crocodile Dundee).

Should you want to find out more, you can always visit www.aussieslang.com and brush up on your language skills before you depart.

Lost Property/Left Luggage

lost property In the event that valuables are lost (or stolen) during your stay in Sydney then immediately report the incident to the local police. Usually it helps (especially for lost passports/visas) to contact your Embassy or Consulate General first, as they should be able to help by issuing any temporary / permanent replacement documents.

For items left on buses, any property found on board will usually be taken back to the depot operating that particular route. A list of bus routes and the relevant depot (with the lost property telephone enquiry number) can be found here at: www.sydneybuses.info

For items lost on the railway, you should contact the Lost Property Office, Central Station, Lee St, Sydney, 2000. Tel: (02) 9379 3341, Fax: (02) 9379 3901.
Sydney Airport, To recover or report missing items of luggage contact Sydney Airport Corporation Lost Property on (2) 9667 9583 or e-mail them at: lostproperty@syd.com.au.

For items lost or damaged in transit you should contact your airline as soon as possible.

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Sydney - Jet Lag, Language, Lost Property/Left Luggage...

Jet Lag

Language

Lost Property/Left Luggage