G’day Mate!

Our first Aussie pie!When we got off the plane in Australia, it felt like we’d landed in another universe.

“Are you looking for anything special? Can I help you at all?” chirped a lady at the duty-free shop. We were hunting for an Irish whiskey, a favourite of our Warm Showers host in Perth.

“Yes, we’re, ummmm……”

We were taken aback. It had been so long since we’d had a real conversation in a shop – no hand gestures, facial expressions or body contortions needed – that we temporarily forgot how to respond.

It took a few moments before a stupid grin broke over both our faces and we were able to finish the the sentence. The stupid grin stayed throughout the evening.

Irish whiskey successfully located, we carried on to immigration and customs. Dozens of Australians had warned us about this part. Loads of stories came our way about how the bikes might be put in quarantine, our camping gear carefully looked at, our food confiscated.

We braced for a real grilling and stepped forward to explain why we’d checked ‘yes’ to more than half the answers on the entry form. Medicines, food, animal products, things with soil and goods worth more than $900. We had it all.

“Hello Sir. Hello Ma’am. Where are you coming from? What’s this about medicines? Just your personal supply? Thanks very much. Have a nice visit.”

Wow. That was easy. It took all of 30 seconds and no one wanted to see our proof of onward travel or e-visas, which we’d been told to carry.

Next up was quarantine and here we really expected a long wait and a real inspection. As if he could read our minds, one official saw our bike boxes approaching and quipped with a wink “Here comes double trouble!”

Again though, the whole procedure was quick and easy. A quick look at our food – we both bet on at least one item confiscated but it was all approved – and a cursory glance at the bikes and we were through with a wave and a smile from the guards, who even helped repack our bags and retape our bike boxes. Our camping gear didn’t even get a brief look.

All in all, the Aussies win our vote for friendliest and easiest border crossing of the trip.

If we’re giving awards at the end of our journey, the Aussies might be in the running for a second prize: best taxi drivers.

“Pick me! Pick me!” shouted one man, jumping up and down with a smile and waving us towards his car. “Awww, his car isn’t big enough,” said another. “Go see the Kiwi down there.” “Nah, I can take them in my station wagon,” said a third.

We definitely weren’t used to taxi drivers fighting over us and all our awkward luggage. In the end we picked the Kiwi with his huge van. All the bikes and bags were loaded in on his wheelchair lift. The guy was a joke a minute and told us how he made more money driving a taxi than working as a nurse.

Rikus, our host, also turned out to be a star, welcoming us late in the evening with a drink and a comfortable room all to ourselves – one final reprieve from the tent before we head out on the road tomorrow.

After a sleep, we got the bikes back together (no damage, just a couple small scratches) and headed out for a tour of the town with Rikus. The weather was just perfect for cycling – a little cool with a light breeze – and after so much sweating in Asia we thought we’d died and gone to heaven.

It wasn’t just the weather in Perth that impressed us. They had really neat things like green grass, sprinklers, drinkable water out of taps, rubbish bins and, best of all, a big selection of cheese in the supermarket. We just about fell over when we found the parks had free electric barbeques.

We love this country!!

The only black mark in Australia’s book might be internet access. At $2 for 15 minutes in the tourist bureau, it’s a bit out of our range. If you don’t hear from us for a while, we haven’t been jumped on by a kangaroo. We just haven’t found the library.

Comments

  1. Dad
    4th December 2008 at 9:18 am #

    Must seem like back in civilization ?

  2. James
    4th December 2008 at 7:56 pm #

    G’day indeed!

    If you get a chance take a trip by the Swan Bell Tower, the bells are the old ones which used to ring out from St Martins in the Fields in London.

    Looking forward to all your adventures down under

    ‘ugz James

  3. friedel
    4th December 2008 at 8:23 pm #

    Civilisation indeed. We are enjoying it but on the other hand, it comes at a price. It’ll take a while to get used to how much we need to fork over for life’s basics.

  4. Ingrid and Yves
    4th December 2008 at 10:21 pm #

    Welcome back in civilisation! What a life with no difficulties, no worries, no challenges… lol.

    We will leave next saturday for Switzerland and than for a two weeks trip to Hurghada, Aegypt. Not really what we where looking for. First we booked Bangkok 🙂

    We still think of you very often. Have a good time!

    Ingrid

  5. Steve
    8th December 2008 at 2:55 am #

    You guys are indeed awesome!!! Just the thought of what you’ve achieved is quite remarkable. I guess there’s a wee bit of envy in there, but hey who couldn’t be? But at 43 with a wife, 2 kids, a dog, 4 chickens and 2 mice I think we’d need to expand on the Tandem!!!!

    Great Work…Hope you’re getting some curling in!!!

    Steve

  6. David Piper
    8th December 2008 at 10:57 pm #

    Just back from Syria – everything you said was true, so thanks for such a great guide.

    I’m back in the 9 – 5 office routine so I dont want to hear any more crap about how great it is in Oz 😉

  7. indices trading
    3rd December 2022 at 8:12 pm #

    eating disorders are of course sometimes deadly because it can cause the degeneration of one’s health~

  8. Expert Removal Services
    22nd December 2022 at 1:44 pm #

    Hello, you used to write excellent, but the last several posts have been kinda boring… I miss your great writings. Past several posts are just a little out of track! come on!

  9. Electric Vehicles
    26th December 2022 at 1:45 am #

    magic story very thanks nurugo uv camera The other centers on a $1.55 billion purchase by AtheneHoldings Ltd, which is funded by an affiliate of Apollo GlobalManagement LLC of the U.S. annuity business of Britain’sAviva Plc, the people said.

  10. Thi cong quan cafe
    29th December 2022 at 8:22 pm #

    Enjoyed reading this, very good stuff, regards . “If it was an overnight success, it was one long, hard, sleepless night.” by Dicky Barrett.

  11. Barry Bowen
    4th January 2023 at 8:44 pm #

    I’m in shock after shock, we don’t know what’s going on ??Loading…

  12. candida papaya enzymes
    10th January 2023 at 3:47 pm #

    Dios es bueno, mi esposo y yo disfrutamos mucho con nuestros dos niños Dios les bendiga. cual es su dirección y sus horarios de sus servicios? Gracias

  13. rockwool grow cubes
    8th April 2023 at 3:06 am #

    Really appreciate you sharing this article. Cool.

  14. population gambles
    10th April 2023 at 12:02 pm #

    sierra ranch apartments apartments con orchard place apartments

  15. Bonus
    11th April 2023 at 1:04 pm #

    ed pills from lemonaod – roaring tiger ed pill over the counter ed pills walmart canada

  16. viral promotion
    14th April 2023 at 8:23 am #

    furnished apartment for rent near me Alex Lyubinsky ICO Scammer SCAM ICO

  17. Canadian casinos
    18th April 2023 at 10:34 pm #

    apartments for rent north hollywood rentberry scam ico 30m$ raised apartments in oviedo fl

  18. bat cang
    23rd April 2023 at 11:28 pm #

    Hey!. Interesting material! I’m really appreciate it. It will be great if you’ll read my first article!)

  19. this link
    25th April 2023 at 4:30 pm #

    Recorded Delivery indocin for pda closure For this reason, RBS has undertaken contingency planning for the possible business implications of a ‘Yes’ vote

  20. self-acceptance
    27th April 2023 at 4:44 pm #

    ivermectin to treat lyme ivermectin guinea pig

  21. I appreciate you sharing this blog. Cool.

  22. Gen Z is entrepreneurial
    2nd May 2023 at 2:08 pm #

    ivermectin cream for scabies ivermectin nobel prize

  23. carolina behavioral health
    3rd May 2023 at 8:35 am #

    Really enjoyed this post. Awesome.

  24. Mang hpde
    3rd May 2023 at 5:56 pm #

    generic ivermectin ivermectin cream 5 – ivermectin 4

  25. domotizar
    3rd May 2023 at 11:51 pm #

    Good answers in return of this difficulty with real arguments and explaining all concerning that.

  26. Andy Pau
    4th May 2023 at 1:35 pm #

    how to get ivermectin in canada ivermectin uk

  27. CPD,ICF,UKCP AND BACP accredited qualified staff members

  28. Richard Row
    6th May 2023 at 8:05 pm #

    Singapore is genuinely exciting for its multilayered social tapestry! From Chinatown to Little India as well as whatever in between, there’s a lot to experience as well as discover below – its vivid shades and abundant background makes every edge an interesting adventure – foodies need to certainly see! If that is something that speaks to you too then Singapore need to not be missed as your following travel destination! Hawker Centres in Singapore use an incredible selection of regional meals. Do not miss trying Hainanese Chicken Rice or Chili Crab! Gardens by the Bay were impressive – I especially admired Supertree Grove as well as Cloud Woodland – they genuinely took my breath away! The light show during the night was truly enchanting as well as an absolute must-see! Singapore used such an amazing mix of futuristic design and also rich plants – from Marina Bay Sands to Henderson Waves this city is genuinely amazing to uncover! Singapore’s public transport is exceptional! From its effective metro train system and also easy traveling with an EZ-Link card to Sentosa Island for relaxation – which flaunts Universal Studios, S.E.A Aquariums, as well as much more attractions! – their public transport has actually set brand-new standards. Aquarium, beautiful beaches, as well as various other enjoyment for the entire family make Singapore an exceptional means to spend a day. Do not miss Singapore’s ArtScience Gallery which combines art, science, and technology in an fantastic combination! Experiences at The Gardens By the Bay were genuinely wonderful; with interactive displays and also fascinating displays producing an extraordinary journey – definitely worth a browse through! I was absolutely shocked at Singapore’s amazing purchasing scene! From high-end shopping centers such as ION Orchard to Bugis Road’s vibrant markets there genuinely is something right here for any shopaholic to experience! Make certain to leave some area in your suitcase! I located Singapore Zoo among the finest zoos I’ve visited; it’s open-concept rooms and immersive habitats developed a real wild animals experience, not forgetting Night Safari for included excitement! Singapore’s multiculturalism is an additional drawcard; Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Western impacts can be seen everywhere from design to cuisine; producing a interesting melting pot!

  29. PVC Extrusion
    7th May 2023 at 10:10 pm #

    I appreciate you sharing this blog. Much obliged.

  30. bape clothing
    13th May 2023 at 12:26 pm #

    I precisely desired to thank you very much all over again. I am not sure the things that I would have followed without the actual smart ideas revealed by you directly on such a area. It was a fearsome crisis in my opinion, however , being able to view a new professional form you managed it made me to weep for contentment. Now i am happier for your help and then sincerely hope you really know what a great job your are accomplishing instructing other individuals thru your website. Most likely you haven’t encountered all of us.

  31. machine addiction
    16th May 2023 at 8:20 am #

    caca a la deriva: 6 hacer y cuándo ver a un médico

  32. Streaming devices
    16th May 2023 at 10:45 am #

    darknet market list 2021 grams darknet market

  33. Reformas migratorias barcelona
    17th May 2023 at 9:30 am #

    pure cbd oil cbd oil store full spectrum cbd oil

  34. Austdoor
    17th May 2023 at 3:58 pm #

    chloroquine hydroxychloroquine how to make hydroxychloroquine

  35. giannis shoes
    17th May 2023 at 9:51 pm #

    Thanks for all of your labor on this site. Betty really likes engaging in internet research and it’s easy to see why. A lot of people know all regarding the powerful form you provide important solutions on the website and cause contribution from people on that point and our favorite simple princess is studying a great deal. Enjoy the remaining portion of the new year. You are conducting a superb job.

  36. off white clothing
    19th May 2023 at 10:00 pm #

    I precisely needed to say thanks all over again. I do not know what I would’ve gone through without the type of points shown by you directly on such a area of interest. It absolutely was a real horrifying setting for me, but noticing this expert fashion you managed that took me to cry for happiness. Now i am thankful for this service and as well , pray you recognize what a great job you happen to be accomplishing teaching others thru a web site. I am certain you haven’t encountered all of us.

  37. gkindex.com
    23rd May 2023 at 3:09 pm #

    I cannot thank you enough for the article. Will read on…

  38. Sanford Lawson
    28th May 2023 at 3:14 pm #

    Thank you! An abundance of knowledge.apply texas college essays doctoral dissertation custom writing companies

  39. Kerr Baker
    2nd June 2023 at 7:10 pm #

    A GAME PLAN THAT ASSISTS IN MAKING CRITICAL DECISION

  40. Noel Meza Attorney
    6th June 2023 at 4:58 pm #

    Enjoyed reading through this, very good stuff, regards . “Success doesn’t come to you…you go to it.” by Marva Collins.

  41. Ottiwell Bartlett
    7th June 2023 at 3:04 pm #

    ed pills used by michael douglas – pills for ed men app hannity ed pill max

  42. sua nha tron goi
    8th June 2023 at 2:32 pm #

    newcastle apartments ring doorbell for apartments kaywood gardens apartments

  43. yeezy 500
    10th June 2023 at 10:03 am #

    I am glad for writing to make you know of the fabulous encounter my princess developed viewing your blog. She noticed a wide variety of pieces, which include how it is like to have an awesome helping mindset to let most people quite simply completely grasp some complicated things. You really did more than readers’ expected results. Thank you for showing the warm and helpful, trustworthy, explanatory and also cool tips about your topic to Janet.

  44. machine learning
    11th June 2023 at 12:31 am #

    This has absolutely no effect on the best way this kind of activity acts nevertheless.

  45. Gladys Moss
    11th June 2023 at 5:54 pm #

    I really like looking through a post that can make men and women think. Also, many thanks for allowing for me to comment.

  46. etransaxle Blog
    14th June 2023 at 9:10 pm #

    Im obliged for the blog post. Will read on…

  47. trade metals
    16th June 2023 at 1:20 am #

    gq magazine denzel washington ed pills — ed fe pills fast acting otc ed pills

  48. Jordan Travis Scott
    16th June 2023 at 4:04 am #

    I have to voice my appreciation for your kindness for women who really need help with the content. Your very own dedication to passing the solution along became rather productive and has truly made those like me to achieve their pursuits. Your amazing helpful information entails a great deal a person like me and somewhat more to my fellow workers. Best wishes; from everyone of us.

  49. valvulas de mariposa
    23rd June 2023 at 10:37 pm #

    30 tipografía hippie para animar tu plan 2019

  50. Hyperbaric Chamber Ireland
    26th June 2023 at 1:29 pm #

    You mentioned this perfectly. how to write an argumentative essay papers writing service choosing a dissertation topic

  51. ?????????????????????2023
    1st July 2023 at 12:01 pm #

    ivermectin shampoo for head lice ivermectin injectable for horses

  52. why are there ants in my bathroom
    5th July 2023 at 1:11 am #

    What sort of camera is that? That is certainly a decent high quality.

  53. best spa in hoi an
    7th July 2023 at 11:25 am #

    hydroxychloroquine covid-19 plaquenil – plaquenil 400

  54. Elaine Leigh
    8th July 2023 at 1:34 am #

    ivermectina para humanos ivermectin pyrantel pamoate

  55. Basil Collins
    8th July 2023 at 4:13 pm #

    dog wormer ivermectin ivermectin for pig lice

  56. Kathryn Knight
    8th July 2023 at 7:20 pm #

    I’d like to find out more? I’d love to find out some additional information.

  57. Customized merchandise
    14th July 2023 at 12:29 pm #

    Water-proof and also hands free operation will be the largest features of Rolex.

  58. List of Names
    16th July 2023 at 11:16 am #

    Great read. This is an excellent, an eye-opener for sure! I really like your article. I enjoyed reading what you had to say.

  59. Unwanted object removal
    17th July 2023 at 4:24 am #

    Thanks for any other great article. Where else could anyone get that type of info in sucha perfect means of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I’m on the searchfor such information.

  60. https://iptvmediapro.ro/
    19th July 2023 at 10:39 pm #

    They are really convincing and can definitely work.

  61. Todd Karamian
    20th July 2023 at 8:59 am #

    get very far as we ended up gamer and like to enjoy yourself,

  62. prosolution pills
    21st July 2023 at 1:02 am #

    Dijital parayla işlem yapabilmek nasıl olur öğrenmek için tıkla.

  63. prosolution gel
    21st July 2023 at 2:54 pm #

    The probability of the outcome is 50/50, but the implied probabilityof her bet is just 47.six, even though the impliedprobability of your bet is 52.4.

  64. clothes for shedding dogs
    31st July 2023 at 7:50 am #

    Thanks so much for the post. Cool.

  65. shengbenzhejiangchina ZLV
    3rd August 2023 at 7:37 pm #

    Major thankies for the blog.Much thanks again. Really Great.

  66. iptvgithubm3u
    4th August 2023 at 9:20 am #

    Thanks for the blog.Much thanks again. Awesome.

  67. minoo-cn
    9th August 2023 at 9:25 am #

    Hey, thanks for the blog. Great.

  68. power washing dublin
    9th August 2023 at 11:55 am #

    male dysfunction best ed medications – mens erection pills

  69. tn road tax online
    17th August 2023 at 9:08 pm #

    Thank you ever so for you blog.Much thanks again. Want more.

  70. coil packing line
    20th August 2023 at 12:38 pm #

    Very good article. Awesome.

  71. honeylovedoll
    11th September 2023 at 6:25 pm #

    Looking forward to reading more. Great blog. Great.

  72. franchise for sale
    26th September 2023 at 3:40 pm #

    Thank you ever so for you blog post. Awesome.

  73. shengbenzhejiangchina
    29th September 2023 at 11:18 am #

    Enjoyed every bit of your post. Will read on…

  74. tải kubet
    4th November 2023 at 12:31 pm #

    Looking forward to reading more. Great article. Awesome.

  75. ku หวยไทย
    9th December 2023 at 8:22 am #

    Beneficial document helps make frequent advance, appreciate it write about, this pile-up connected with expertise is usually to hold finding out, focus is usually the beginning of money.

  76. illegal drug dealer
    11th December 2023 at 9:22 pm #

    I love looking through a post that will make people think. Also, thanks for allowing for me to comment.

  77. Jeffreykig
    15th December 2023 at 2:11 pm #

    I gave https://www.cornbreadhemp.com/collections/full-spectrum-cbd-oil a prove for the primary habits, and I’m amazed! They tasted great and provided a sanity of calmness and relaxation. My lay stress melted away, and I slept outstrip too. These gummies are a game-changer an eye to me, and I greatly commend them to anyone seeking appropriate worry recess and well-advised sleep.

  78. Kelvin Kaemingk
    3rd January 2024 at 7:42 pm #

    Kelvin Kaemingk has over two decades of helping people make smarter decisions regarding their mortgage and money decisions. He began his career in financial planning and migrated into the mortgage space in 2002. He is passionate and committed to helping people throughout their lives, make the best financial decisions for themselves and their families. As a father of three, and now Papa K (grandpa) to one, a team builder and recruiter, Kelvin thrives on helping others realize their potential, often referenced as “Everyone’s biggest fan”. Kelvin Kaemingk is the Area Manager for loanDepot and Co-Host of the Real Estate Chalk Talk radio program based in the Minneapolis – St. Paul area. Kelvin Kaemingk, NMLS 251124 | Branch NMLS 1139048

  79. Kelvin Kaemingk
    3rd January 2024 at 8:38 pm #

    Kelvin Kaemingk has over two decades of helping people make smarter decisions regarding their mortgage and money decisions. He began his career in financial planning and migrated into the mortgage space in 2002. He is passionate and committed to helping people throughout their lives, make the best financial decisions for themselves and their families. As a father of three, and now Papa K (grandpa) to one, a team builder and recruiter, Kelvin thrives on helping others realize their potential, often referenced as “Everyone’s biggest fan”. Kelvin Kaemingk is the Area Manager for loanDepot and Co-Host of the Real Estate Chalk Talk radio program based in the Minneapolis – St. Paul area. Kelvin Kaemingk, NMLS 251124 | Branch NMLS 1139048

  80. https://www.lianindustrial.com
    7th February 2024 at 9:23 am #

    I really enjoy the blog.Much thanks again. Great.

  81. encimera cocina granito
    29th February 2024 at 6:07 am #

    Im thankful for the blog.Much thanks again. Much obliged.

  82. nsfw ai chat
    2nd March 2024 at 7:47 am #

    The article is worth reading, I like it very much. I will keep your new articles.

  83. 澳洲820申请
    8th March 2024 at 10:39 am #

    Thanks a lot for the article. Really Great.

  84. benifits of magic mushrooms
    11th March 2024 at 9:43 am #

    637090 389528There is noticeably big funds to understand about this. I suppose you produced particular nice points in attributes also. 643783

  85. 桃園老司機
    15th March 2024 at 12:18 pm #

    Enjoyed every bit of your article. Keep writing.

  86. Cosplay wig for Halloween
    20th March 2024 at 2:16 pm #

    Wow, great blog.

  87. pte practice online
    22nd March 2024 at 8:20 am #

    Thank you ever so for you blog. Will read on…

  88. 27504 Auto Glass Shop
    22nd March 2024 at 2:53 pm #

    I’m genuinely impressed by the depth of your analysis. Great work!

  89. korean beauty product
    23rd March 2024 at 1:14 pm #

    Im obliged for the post. Great.

Leave a Reply to David Piper Click here to cancel reply.