February 18th - March 4th Australia

"Cheers mate! from the Land-Down-Under"

Very similar to Canada, especially with our dollar almost being 1:1. When I first landed in Perth, Traveldex actually charge a $20 commission for exchanging cash, giving me less Aussie dollar back than my Canadian dollar. WTF!!! It was cheaper withdrawing from the ATM. BMO & MasterCard actually gave better rates than these guys here!

A few things that are different besides the right hand drive. 10% taxes are included in all the prices, and yes Food. In most parts are a lot more expensive even with the taxes taken out. One great thing is, no tips needed for majority of the restaurants. I did have my most expensive subway 1ft in Perth I think it cost $9. Drinks here for a 750ml of Lipton ice tea cost no less than $2.50. The most expensive Vietnamese food, the regular house special noodle and the usual ice coffee $16!!!

What's really nice about Australia is they have a lot of war memorabilia and older style Victorian buildings preserved. A lot of their new buildings will incorporate the old structure giving that antique look. Very beautiful.

Trains in Melbourne is pretty confusing though, as u can be on one train going somewhere, but when it stops @ the next platform, the train destination changes. So, iPod riders, be alert on your train destination! However, $2.90 day pass on a Sunday rocks! & a wonder thanks for uncles & their families whom I was surprised that they actually remembered me & my sisters. The dinner was great!

Sydney is very nice, as the Opera Quay had almost the same feel as Granville Island looking across to downtown under the Burrrard Street bridge. Didn't need to spend much on transport as the train took me straight to downtown where walking took me to most places within the city.