Goodbye Australia... for now

Oz – would we live here??

After 3 months here, we’ve seen a lot of great things, and had some great times, but is it great enough to live here? We’ve been to most states and most cities, and each has its own qualities.

Melbourne was a favourite despite only being there for 4 days. It was less busy than Sydney and was more spacious. The trams give the city a certain character and make journeys around the city “grid” really quick and simple. It’s also the mix of cultures within the city that give it a certain charm, and there is a great variety of things to do with lots of old cathedrals and churches; there’s the old parliamentary buildings and the parks; then you have Brunswick Street, Little Italy, Chinatown, Federation Square, Southbank, Queen Vic markets and the central shopping malls – all within walking distance of each other, but all have completely different vibes. Then there is the St Kilda beach for an escape of the city, and lets not forget the grand prix circuit, tennis courts, MCG, Auzzie Rules, etc.

Saying that, Brisbane is also a fave, as its slightly smaller so less city-like. We had a great time here, seeing friends and family, and having spent more time here it felt like more of a home. So much so, that we started bumping into people we’d met on the citi-cat!! The street beach, markets and laid back feel make this place more relaxing, not forgetting the gold class cinema. Its location is a lot better than Melbourne with the Sunshine coast, Gold Coast, theme parks, Byron Bay, Barrier Reef and rainforest all within easy reach. The weather is also a lot better here, though it does get a bit too hot at times ;)

So, we’d probably go for Bris because we know people there…

Vital Stats & Facts

Fuel per litre = $1.10 (Monday) to $1.40 (Friday) (approx 40p)
Chai Tea at Starbucks = $4 (1.50)
Beer – Tooheys, Carlton, XXXX Gold = $4 schooner (£1.50)
Food of choice – Steak, BBQ, bread scrolls, vegemite (yuk), tim-tams (yum), cold rock ice-cream, boost juice,
Car of choice – 4x4 or Ute
Meal for two - $50 (£20)
Backpackers sleep - $60 (£24)
Camping - $20 (£8)
Car Hire - $30 (£12)

Things we’ll miss – great steak, sunshine, friendliness, driving on the beach, public bbq’s everywhere, gold class cinema