Sidetracking from my Asian expedition, I decided to visit a couple friends in Melbourne. I was able to even plan it so I was there for both their birthdays! I’m such a good person, sigh. Two weeks of mooching off of them provided me with, free accommodation, some food, and tour guides. Though out of it all they made sure I had the full “Australian Experience”. What an experience it was.

Still sitting in the beginning stages of their spring, I got a shock to the system of entering below 30 deg weather for the first time in 4 months. It was great to smell some fresh crisp air again. Melbourne has a very “Vancouver” feel to it, kind of hard to explain but it felt like being home. Becks and Cappy added to that feeling by sharing their homes with me and taking time out to show me the sights. Thanks guys!

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In the two weeks I was able to check everything off my list, and something’s I didn’t even know were on my list. Saw: The country side, Kangaroos, Koalas (which are my new favorite animal on the planet), Tazzy Devils, Surfing Beaches, Penguins (not in captivity, just on a pier), The inside of many pubs and bars, Dingo’s, NHL hockey (on T.V.), The Highlights of the city. Ate: Pies (meat pies are auzzy tradition), Kangaroo (Yes that’s right, I ate a Kangaroo. It’s the cheapest meat you can buy cuz they are everywhere. Tasty little suckers.), Auzzy BBQ’s, and a lot more local treats.

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The place is just amazing. Spending two weeks in oz does not do it justice. I will return and travel the country properly, most likely on a working visa in times to come. I’m looking forward to that visit. Just awesome!