Australia: A Love Letter

Posted on 27. Nov, 2011 by Guest Poster in Destinations, Guest posts, Oceania

Okay so I didn’t love Australia- but some people really do! Here Christine Amorose shares what makes Australia such a special place.

It’s no secret that after eight months of living and working in Melbourne, I’ve fallen in love with Australia. I’ll forgive the lack of Wifi, the inclination to shorten every word, the lack of an ozone layer that leaves me red and peeling—heck, I almost like not checking my Facebook every other minute and I pepper my speech with arvo and exxy. Its faults are almost endearing. Minus the sunburn. Never cool.

But there are a few things that Australia does so incredibly well—and, perhaps, that America doesn’t do so well—that make me never want to leave.

Sunday sessions: In the States, Sundays tend to be reserved for nursing hangovers, running errands or perhaps a champagne brunch if it’s a special occasion. In Australia, the last day of the weekend is a time to gather your mates, head down to a cozy pub or a sunshine-infused beer garden, listen to some acoustic music and sip a fair few ciders. It’s a brilliant way to end a weekend and prepare for the working week ahead.

Big brekky: I’m not sure why breakfast is so much better in Australia. Perhaps it’s because most cafés serve it all day, or at least until 3 p.m. Maybe it’s the lack of carb-heavy and sugar-filled options that leave you stuffed, and then starving within hours. Australian breakfasts tend to be more savoury than syrup-drenched sweet, full of eggs and avocado and herbs—and yes, Vegemite. They’re brilliantly presented, in fair although not overwhelming portions. But in all seriousness, it’s probably the coffee. Aussie baristas take their craft seriously, with excellent beans, perfectly frothed milk and not a drop of long-drip coffee anywhere.

Beach days: Did you know that more than 85 percent of Australians live within 31 miles of the coast? The ocean isn’t exactly friendly—Prime Minister Harold Holt went for a swim in 1978 and was never seen again. There are rip tides, crushing waves, lethal jellyfish and sneaky sharks. But when the sun comes out, Australians head in hoards to the beach: to throw back a few beers or the throw around the footy, to slowly turn brown or quickly swim laps. Book some Sydney accommodation in the eastern suburbs to properly soak up a day at Bondi, or the less-famous but equally-beautiful Bronte or Coogee beaches.

Work-holiday culture: The “no worries” attitude that Aussies are famous for is no joke: they’re laid-back, always keen for a cold beer and a laugh. It extends to their work culture: four weeks of vacation is the minimum and Friday afternoon drinks is standard. People aren’t as fussed by what university you went to, or the degree you hold. They’re much more interested in what you’re doing now, which is lovely.

What’s your favorite part about life in Australia?  

This post was sponsored by Quick Beds.

Californian by birth, traveler at heart, Christine has worked in PR in Silicon Valley, bartended on the beaches of the French Riviera and backpacked solo through Europe. Now she’s living, working and eating her way through  Australia–and soon, Southeast Asia.  Follow her adventures at C’est Christine and at @camorose.

Tags: Australia, sponsored