Imagine this: the clear blue tides of the Indian Ocean lapping at your feet as you lie on a pristine sandy beach and sip a glorious daiquiri. Cocos (Keeling) Islands are exactly this paradise and more.
Gear up for the perfect island vacation on this Australian territory hidden between the West Coast and Sri Lanka. However, before you go, it's important to purchase the right travel medical insurance, so you can enjoy the tropical splendor of Cocos with the financial security of knowing you have coverage.
Cocos (Keeling) Islands Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
When you're vacationing in an exotic island location, travel medical insurance is incredibly important. On a remote island, medical facilities are limited, so any emergency situation may require medical evacuation, which can be very costly. It's essential to protect your finances with travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Cocos (Keeling) Islands?
The official Cocos (Keeling) Islands' Tourism Association clarifies that all visitors to the islands must have adequate health insurance coverage.
As the islands are an Australian territory, they fall under the Reciprocal Healthcare Benefits Agreement shared between Australia and some other countries. Citizens of those countries can receive emergency medical treatment under Medicare. It's important to note however that short-term visa holders are ineligible for treatment under this agreement, as is anyone seeking medical treatment that's deemed not to be an emergency. Therefore, adequate travel medical insurance is an important component of your travel plans to Cocos.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Cocos (Keeling) Islands?
Cocos Islands are quite literally in the middle of nowhere. Of the two inhabited islands, only one has a medium-sized hospital. However, any serious accident or emergency cases are immediately evacuated back to the Australian mainland. Without sufficient health insurance, you might have to shell out an exorbitant amount if you happen to need medical treatment during your vacation.
Buy travel medical insurance for Cocos Islands to ensure that you can be protected from high medical bills.
Things to Do for Travelers in Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Water-Based Activities in the Cocos
The sheer variety of water-based adventure activities you can do on the islands will leave you spoiled for choice. How does jet skiing on the warm blue sea sound? Or snorkeling amidst the vibrant underwater marine life of the islands? Perhaps fly fishing in the traditional style is your preference. Whatever your interest, you will most likely find it here.
Zip Around on an Island Tour
Go island-hopping between the 27 islands that make up the Cocos Archipelago. There are plenty of tour companies that operate canoe and turtle tours of the islands, complete with scuba-diving and snorkeling. Explore the uninhabited beauty of this haven in the most authentic way possible.
Cossies Beach - Australia's Best beach
Not many island destinations can claim to have the distinction of being named ‘Australia's Best Beach.' Cossies Beach on Direction Island does, and you absolutely must pay it a visit. The white sands, the turquoise waters, and the emerald palm trees - we can't think of a more perfect combination.
Chill at the Big Barge Art Center
For the art lovers and creative souls, the Big Barge Art Center is a lovely place to visit. It is entirely within an old barge's hull and serves as an art gallery and artist studio. You can catch enthralling workshops on painting, sculpture, and pottery here throughout the year.
Hit the Links at the Golf Resort
The Cocos has a 9-hole golf course with a stunning view of the ocean. Hit the links early in the morning to see a breathtaking sunrise as you tee off with your pals.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Weather conditions
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands have a typically tropical climate all year long. May to October is the time of the trade wind season and is the warmer part of the year, with the mercury remaining at a pleasant average of 20-24° C. The cooler season is from November to April. April is also the wettest month, with nearly 11 inches of rain falling on average.
Beware of the tides
You should always keep the tides in mind while venturing out to the sea. If you are surfing, heading out to fish, or jet skiing, the minimum tidal level is 0.6 meters. Make sure that you follow the official safety precautions displayed at every beach.
Getting to the Cocos
Being so remotely located, the only way to get to the Cocos is via Perth in Australia. There is a biweekly flight route from Perth Airport. However, delays due to rough weather on the islands upend some flight schedules occasionally.
Recreational Safety
The Cocos (Keeling) Islands are a dream for the adventurer, especially on the water. However, it's important to follow all health and safety regulations no matter what activity you're taking part in. Follow the instructions of your guide carefully and utilize all safety equipment. Doing so can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Beat the Heat
The tropical weather might be pleasant, but sun exposure on the islands can be a problem. Keep an ample stock of sunscreen with you and always stay well-hydrated.
Before You Travel to Cocos (Keeling) Islands - Do This
- Get vaccinated. Check the visa requirements to see if you need to get any special vaccinations. It is a good idea to get an immunity booster shot before your trip.
- Back up your documents. It's a good idea to make a digital backup of important travel documents like your passport, visa, health ID card and personal identification. Not only is it handy when traveling, it could be a lifesaver in an emergency.
- Get insured. When planning your vacation, purchase travel medical insurance with appropriate coverage for your needs.