So I’ve officially hit my three week mark here in Australia! Although it feels like I’ve been here for months, I’ve learned more about the Australian culture in my three weeks living here, than I did in the four months I spent researching it before I came. There are many misconceptions that people (Americans) have about Australia. Here’s a few things I’ve learned in the past three weeks.
It’s Not Extremely Hot Year Round
Although this may be true in the North, it’s not true for Melbourne (where I’m currently living). The weather widely varies across the continent. For the time that I’ve been here, it’s been between 10 – 24 degrees C (50 – 75 degrees F). Although it’s Spring going into Summer, it’s been a bit chilly since I’ve arrived here.
Not Every Animal Here Can Kill You
Yes, Australia has crocodiles, sharks, jellyfish, venomous snakes, and the deadliest spider in the world, but it is extremely rare that you’ll come across one of these creatures, especially living in the city.
The Birds Are Loud, EXTREMELY Loud
While the birds are beautiful and entertaining to watch, they are extremely obnoxious at seven in the morning. You thought the sound of nails scraping down a chalkboard was bad, try listening to a Cuckoo while trying to sleep.
Australian Football is Nothing Like American Football
Sadly, “footy” season ended right before I arrived in Australia, but I have watched parts of games. I’ve realized that Australian football is sort of a mix between soccer and basketball. Oh, and they don’t wear helmets or pads, or throw the ball for that matter. They pass it by punting or punching it to their teammates.
I Love The Concept of Tea Time
When I first heard about “tea time”, I thought it was when the whole family would sit down and have tea during the day, but I was completely wrong. Tea time is not formal at all in Australia, and it’s basically a glorified snack time. Who doesn’t love an extra two times in the day designated to eat.
Meat Pie is Actually Really Good
When I was first asked if I wanted some meat pie, I sort of cringed. However, it’s quite delicious and I may be addicted to “party pies” now.
… And The Coffee is Even Better
Everyone asked me how I was going to survive without Starbucks everyday, but look at me, still living. That’s because the coffee here tastes better than anything I’ve ever had. Oh, and on that note, I’ll need to invest in an espresso machine when I get home.
Beer is Very Expensive
And no I don’t mean Gillette Stadium expensive, I mean VERY expensive. I spent $9 on a single Corona at the bar, (luckily tipping isn’t expected in Australia) and that wasn’t even in the city!
No, They Don’t Drink Foster’s
Thank you to everyone who brought me Foster’s to my going away party and told me to “get use to it”, but no one drinks that over here. If you want to drink like the locals, try a pint of Carlton Draught or Victoria Bitter (they’re basically the Budweiser and Budlight of America).
No One “Throws Shrimp on The Barbie”
Although Australians love a good barbecue, they don’t grill shrimp. They actually don’t even call it shrimp for that matter, they call them “prawns”. So if you happen to tell an Australian you’re going to “throw another shrimp on the barbie”, you’ll just get a funny look.
There Are Rotaries Everywhere
And I mean EVERYWHERE. Every 2km (1 1/4 miles) or so, you’ll find yourself slowing down to go through a rotary. But on the plus side, there’s never a need to pull a “U-ey”!
The Toilets Don’t Flush Counterclockwise
The toilets here actually don’t even flush clockwise, they flush down instead of around due to water saving techniques. Pretty smart.
Koala “Bears”, Are Not Bears At All
Contrary to popular belief, Koala’s are actually not bears, or even related to bears for that matter. They are marsupials, a pouched mammal, such as Kangaroos and Wombats.
Not Everyone Loves Vegemite
Let’s just say that it’s an acquired taste, one which I don’t acquire; nor does half the population of Australia. Tim Tams on the other hand, are loved by everyone. And don’t ask me what Vegemite is made of, because I still have no clue…
And of course, driving on the left side of the road isn’t as hard as I thought it would be, it’s getting in on the right side of the car that I keep forgetting…