We have begun doing research on our first trip Down Under and I was hoping some of the experts here might be willing to offer some advice about our excursion.
Basically, the wife and I are planning an open ended trip through Australia (and perhaps New Zealand as well depending on how much money we have left) in about two months time. We've never been before. Our travel style is pretty relaxed and we try to avoid tourist traps and expensive areas in favor of places that are more middle of the road, if you will. We consider ourselves backpackers but don't necessarily have to stay at the cheapest dump in town just to save a buck or two.
As Americans we get three months to visit, and I am hoping some of you might have some ideas about what to expect? Is renting a car a safe/plausible option for someone who's never driven British style? We are starting in Sydney. Any advice is greatly appreciated!