Just curious. I will probably go there in January. Another question. Does the southern part of the globe have warmer climate than the north because of the way the earth is angled? I have never heard Aussies or Argies complain about cold bitter subzero winter.
Then you've never experienced a Victorian winter. And especially in Ballarat. I wouldn't worry about any cold weather at the time of your visit... January is considered a summer month in this part of the world. Haven't been to Tassie yet since I've been here, but would love to someday-- although it's pretty well understood to be a bit cooler than Victoria. Much cooler in Hobart that time of year than in Melbourne, generally speaking. As far as temperatures on average are concerned, my wife (who was born here, unlike myself) would have a better idea on that specific topic. I'll ask her to post here when she has a chance.
I'll be in Surfers Paradise, QLD the first or second week in January. Look for me at Burleigh Heads during the day and the casinos at night.
First of all you will love Tasmania, it is such a wonderful place to visit. As far as the weather goes, Tasmania is generally cooler than mainland Australia. I don't think it gets too hot. I hope you enjoy your trip.
After living in Hobart for a couple of years a while back, I can tell you that during the Summer time, the temperature can range anywhere from 20 degrees up to the low 30's. When it does get hot, it's not a humid kind of heat, more a dry heat which is much more comfortable. You shouldn't encounter too much rain during this time, but you might get the odd day where it rains. Basically though, expect most days to be in the mid 20's.
Should add, that's in Celcius temps, mind you. Anywhere in the mid-60's to upper-80's in Fahrenheit, basically. And if I can draw an analogy there, what he describes here in terms of a "dry heat" is a lot like what you'd find in the American Sun Belt, around Texas and Louisiana.
Well, I am not really worried about how cold it would be. First of all I go there in January which is summer for you guys that's why my title asked how hot it is instead. My mate told me it doesn't dip below freezing over there, which is a hell lot warmer than the place I live. Look. I go into the plane from Wisconsin to LA and go directly to Australia. Before I get inside the plane, I will have to wear enough clothes to keep myself warm. I am afraid I will sweat to death after I come out of the plane and go outside. Going from heavy coats and sweaters to Tshirts and shorts will be quite a shock.
Sounds like my last trip here from California... back in December of '01. I can relate completely, having made a couple of trips here from the States before settling here permanently. The trick is not to overdress when you board the plane (that alone might be tough, starting out in Wisconsin), and making sure you have a change of clothes in a carry-on bag. After all, it's a 15-hour flight from LAX to Melbourne alone, not accounting for stop-overs, so the change of clothes comes in handy. And another thing to bear in mind with the long flight... getting rest. More power to you if you can, if you're one of those people who can manage to get a nap on a plane. I've tried, and I just can't do it. And it's not a matter of insomnia or sleep deprivation, it's just a matter of being able to get comfortable. Easier said than done. But as far as jetlag goes, consuming lots of bottled water seems to help in that regard as well, even if you can't get much rest. Hope that helps-- and it sounds like you'll be looking forward to your welcome form of a culture shock.