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Ready to switch to island time? There’s no better place to unwind than Fiji! Whether it’s a romantic honeymoon, a family escape, or some much-deserved relaxation, Fiji’s got it all—warm turquoise waters, coconut-fringed beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and famously friendly locals. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to plan the perfect Fijian getaway!   Top Ways to Experience Fiji   While relaxation is Fiji’s specialty, there’s plenty more to discover once you’re ready to leave your hammock or poolside spot. Here are a few top activities to make your Fijian adventure unforgettable Snorkel through Fiji’s vibrant reefs Snorkelling is a must! The clear waters around the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, and Denarau Island are perfect for beginners, while experienced snorkellers can check out Rainbow Reef or the Great Astrolabe Reef.   Swim beneath the Tavoro Waterfalls In Bouma National Heritage Park on Tavenuni, you’ll find the breathtaking Tavoro Waterfalls. Each waterfall has its own natural pool, ideal for a refreshing swim amidst Fiji’s lush greenery.   Explore Suva Municipal Market Get a taste of Fijian culture with a trip to Suva Market. Meet local vendors, try fresh produce, and check out spices and handicrafts.   See the fire-walkers of Beqa This captivating ritual showcases locals walking barefoot across hot stones—a fascinating way to experience Fiji’s spiritual traditions. Take a village tour For a true glimpse into Fijian life, visit a local village, join a kava ceremony, or even bring small gifts like books or sports equipment for local kids.   Visiting Fiji   Climate Fiji has a tropical maritime climate with warm temperatures year-round. The wet season, November to April, brings heavy rainfall and the occasional cyclone, while the dry season from May to October is sunny with lower humidity, making it the favourite for visitors.   Culture and Language Fiji’s culture is a vibrant blend of indigenous and multicultural influences. English is widely spoken, but you’ll hear Fijian and Hindi, too. A friendly “Bula!” (hello/welcome) goes a long way. In villages and religious sites, dress modestly and remove shoes when entering homes.   Getting Around With a mix of domestic flights, ferries, and water taxis, Fiji’s islands are well-connected. Taxis, rideshares, and rental cars are convenient for exploring larger islands like Viti Levu. Plus, PassportCard travel insurance covers rental vehicle excess and electric scooter claims.   Accommodation Most visitors stay at resorts with amenities like pools and spas. Boutique hotels, budget stays, and liveaboard diving options are also popular.   Entry Requirements Australian travellers don’t need a visa for stays under four months; just have your accommodation booked and a return ticket ready. Visit the Smartraveller website for up-to-date info. Preparing for Your Trip to Fiji   Ready for your South Pacific escape? Here’s a handy checklist to make sure you’re set for an unforgettable Fijian getaway: Check your passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet Fiji’s visitor entry requirements. Consult your doctor: Some travellers opt for additional vaccinations, like hepatitis A and B or typhoid. Check with your doctor if any are recommended for your trip. Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method and consider carrying some Fijian Dollars (FJD) for cash-only spots. Notify your bank: Let your financial institution know you’ll be traveling. Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers Fiji or consider a pre-paid international SIM card. Secure accommodations: Book accommodations for each location on your itinerary. Plan tours in advance: Consider reserving tours or activities ahead of time. Share travel plans: Give a trusted family member or friend your travel details in case of emergency. Prepare for emergencies: Save information for emergency consular assistance. Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance. Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot.   Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote for your next trip.     All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and on other policy documentation, including the schedule.

Thailand, with its breathtaking beaches, vibrant cities, mouthwatering cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, is a must-visit destination for Australians. If you’re one of the many Aussies ready to cross Thailand off your travel bucket list, a bit of prep work can help make your trip smooth and unforgettable. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips to help you experience the best of Thailand and come back with stories worth sharing!   Top Ways to Experience Thailand   From beach getaways to bustling markets and ancient temples, Thailand has something for everyone. Here’s how to make the most of your time there: Temple Tour in Bangkok: Bangkok is known for its dynamic street life and cultural experiences. A temple tour offers a glimpse into Thailand’s Buddhist heritage and the unique beauty of its capital. Bangkok’s Floating Markets: Dive into Thai culture at Bangkok’s floating markets, where you’ll find a mix of sights, sounds, smells, and flavours that capture the spirit of Thailand. Beach Bliss: Thailand’s beaches are legendary. For a lively vibe, head to Phuket or Koh Phi Phi. If you’re after something more relaxed, Krabi’s serene shores may be just right. Overnight at an Elephant Sanctuary: An overnight stay at an elephant sanctuary is a one-of-a-kind experience. Do some research to find an ethical sanctuary where you can help care for retired elephants, feeding and bathing them. Chiang Mai’s Old City: To explore beyond the beaches, Chiang Mai offers a treasure trove of history, temples, and local charm. Make sure to take a cooking class to bring a taste of Thailand home with you!   Practical Tips for Visiting Thailand   Climate Thailand’s weather varies by season and region. The cooler months from November to February are ideal for travel, while March to May are warmest. June to October brings the rainy season, with heavy rains particularly in northern mountainous areas.   Culture & Language While Thai is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. To show respect, learn a few basic Thai phrases and follow local customs, such as the traditional greeting (palms together with a head nod) and dressing modestly, especially at religious sites. The royal family is deeply respected in Thailand, and displaying any form of disrespect toward them is a serious offense. Be aware that smoking on some beaches, as well as e-cigarettes, is prohibited.   Getting Around Tuk-tuks, taxis, songthaews (pickup trucks with seats in the back), and private ride-share apps like Grab make it easy to explore Thailand. If you prefer renting a motorbike, ensure it’s insured and check your travel insurance covers motorbike-related claims. Our travel insurance partner PassportCard’s policies cover motorbike use, provided you meet local license requirements and wear a helmet.   Accommodation From luxury hotels to cozy beach bungalows, Thailand offers accommodations for every budget. You’ll find great value for money across most options, whether you’re looking for something extravagant or budget-friendly.   Entry Requirements Aussies can enter Thailand without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. For the latest travel information, check the Australian government’s Smartraveller website.   Preparing for Your Trip   Ready to pack your bags? Check off these essentials before you go: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Verify entry requirements: Confirm you meet Thailand’s visitor entry requirements. Ask your doctor about recommended vaccinations, such as for hepatitis A and typhoid. Arrange travel funds: Set up a travel currency card or payment method and consider carrying some cash for cash-only spots. Inform your bank and phone provider about your travel plans. Review phone coverage: Contact your phone provider to check if your plan covers Thailand or consider a pre-paid international SIM card. Book accommodation in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Pack mosquito repellent—Thailand is home to insect-borne diseases. Share your travel plans with a trusted contact back home. Get travel insurance: We partner with PassportCard, Australia's only travel insurance with instant payouts for common claims using the PassportCard Travel Insurance  Medical issue overseas, delayed luggage or stolen cash? PassportCard can load funds onto the card so you can pay for common claims on the spot.   Find out more about PassportCard or get a quote  for your next trip. All benefits and covers are subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions listed in the Combined Financial Services Guide and Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and on other policy documentation, including the schedule.  

Leading regional customer-owned bank, Bank Orange launched a new Savings guide compiled with the help of prominent locals, employees and the community who have shared their saving experiences to help others. With cost-of-living pressures on the rise, there is no better time to learn from others and share insights to help people make the most of their money. This project is the result of many conversations by the Bank Orange team with the community over the past two years to uncover the best savings tips in the region. As we grow and develop throughout life, our financial needs and priorities change and so do our money goals. What works for now, may not work for later and what works for some, may not work for others but, it’s important to share experiences, learning as we go. It’s no surprise that the number one Financial Fitness goal across the Central West region is to save money. Whether it’s saving for a deposit on a home loan, new car, paying off debt, planning for a holiday or something special, we all could do with a little know-how to reach our goal. ‘Our Little Orange Book of Savings Tips’ is available as a free download here  There are many ways Your Team Orange can help with your banking and borrowing. Get in touch.

Orange Credit Union introduces new CEO Lewis von Stieglitz to lead organisation into a thriving future. Leading regional customer-owned bank, Orange Credit Union is delighted to announce the appointment of Lewis von Stieglitz as the organisations new Chief Executive Officer. With an extensive background in financial services across Australia, Mr von Stieglitz brings a wealth of experience to the credit union. As the newly appointed CEO, Mr von Stieglitz will lead Orange Credit Union in its mission to strengthen the financial wellbeing of our customers and the community and is passionate about helping our customers of today and generations to come. With over 30 years’ experience in the financial industry, Mr von Stieglitz has held several key leadership positions, including at General Manager level at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Head of Banking Products at Territory Insurance Office Darwin, and most recently, CEO of Warwick Credit Union for the past 13 years. In expressing excitement about joining Orange Credit Union, Mr von Stieglitz said, “it is a privilege to join the leading customer owned bank in Orange and the Central West. Mr von Stieglitz added, “serving the community is central to my interest in life and it is great to do so with an organisation which has been part of the fabric of Orange for the past fifty eight years”. Orange Credit Union’s Board of Directors share the excitement of welcoming Mr von Stieglitz and believes that their strategic vision and leadership will be instrumental in positioning the credit union for a prosperous future. Orange Credit Union warmly welcomes Lewis von Stieglitz and looks forward to the positive impact he will bring to the organisation and its members.

With nearly two thirds of Australian's using mobile banking as their top method for managing money, protecting your security online is more important than ever. In 2023, Australians lost a reported total of $455,436,239 to thieves through scams. Phishing scams were the most predominant, where a scammer contacts you pretending to be from a legitimate business such as a bank, telephone or internet service provider or Government organisation. You may be contacted by email, social media, phone call, or text message. The ACCC's Scamwatch is a trustworthy resource to keep up to date on the latest scams and current hoaxes trying to steal your personal information. Bank Orange encourages members to stay vigilant with the follow tips to protect your identity online: Keep in regular contact with your financial institution If you are receiving emails from your financial institution and you’re not sure if they are genuine, contact your financial institution and ask them. Chances are, if emails from your bank or credit union relate to loans, refinancing, interest rates, mortgage or home loan rates or the like, they could very well be genuine. If an email appears to be from your bank or credit union, but the email isn’t the same quality, uses misshapen or grainy images or is asking you to provide your member number and internet banking password from within the email, contact your bank or credit union immediately. They should be able to verify if the email was genuine or not. Never open an email from someone you don’t recognise or click any links in an email that you suspect is fraudulent Hackers and scammers can attempt to infiltrate your machine and steal your personal information by loading viruses on your device. Emails that contain such viruses usually ask you to click on links or provide your personal information as verification of your identity. Downloading attachments from these emails can also deliver the virus to your device which can freeze your files or provide them remote access to your device. If you receive an email from an unknown person or an institution that you don’t bank with, delete the email immediately and then delete it from your deleted items.  Never keep a copy of your PIN with your card (or anywhere) It is important to keep your PIN number safe and never to keep a copy of it in your wallet. Your PIN should never be shared with anyone and is a number that you can easily remember without it being directly related to your birthdate, birth year or anything else easily identifiable by others. Check your transactions regularly It’s important to regularly check your transactions or account statements regularly so you can pick up any potentially fraudulent transactions as soon as possible. Even transactions from trusted companies like APPLE ITUNES AUSTRALIA can look authentic, but might be fake.  Our team is here to help If you’d like any further tips or support with keeping your personal information safe with Bank Orange, follow us on social media, come along to our annual Stay Safe Forum or contact our Member Banking Specialists.