Expert: Frank Denison - 6/16/2003

Question
Hi,
My wife, son and I are coming to Australia in about 5 weeks time and we are hiring cars in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney.  Could you please tell me is it easy to get lost driving on Australias roads and if so would buying a good road map help.  If we need a good road map, could you please recommend one, that I could buy before we get to Australia.
Many thanks.
Neil

Answer
G'Day Niel,
          Like most cities, it can be difficult to find your way around. Sydney is a huge city, and it it is very easy to get lost in Sydney. Brisbane (where I live) is smaller, and is not as easy to lose your way. I have never been to Perth, but it is a bit smaller than Brisbane, so it should be as easy as Brisbane. I have found if you use the route map numbers, it is a lot easier. Getting to and from each city is not hard, but driving around the actual city area is tough, because of one way streets.
The best time to get the maps would be when you land in the city. I do not know of any place where you could purchase them before you arrive. I would be quite happy to get the maps of all the cities  for you, as I am a member of a Car Club. I could send them to the hotel that you are staying at. Email me direct - franksue@bigpond.net.au if you want the maps, or need any more assistance.

Regards,
Frank