Beautiful Perth
After a 4.5 hr flight to Sydney then a 5.5 hr flight to Perth, I am done flying for a while. We went through customs with no questions asked and only one hiccup with a suitcase not making it, but it arrived early the next day.
Landing in Perth has been a sernedipitous event. I now live in the same city as my childhood friend from Alberta, and she only lives 10 minutes away. Having Alex close by has been a blessing. She picked us up from the airport and helped us get settled by getting our phones connected, buying groceries and car shopping. Plus it’s just nice to have a dear friend close by. Thank you Alex!
Everyone we’ve met has been so friendly and helpful. Atticus has even met a few playmates. We are fortunate to have our exchange partner’s parents living on the same street to help us with day to day stuff. We are truly grateful!
The first week was just a big adjustment for me. Anxiety set in with worrying and transitioning. I had difficulty with sleeping and then ended up with an upset stomach and dehydration for a few days. We are 13 hours ahead of Ontario and 16 hours ahead of BC (thanks Andrea and Dan for helping me do the math).
Outdoor Living
As Paul mentioned we have a park close by. We’ve been doing a lot of walking and exploring. This city really makes it easy for people to embrace the outdoors. We’ve had some dinners out where we cooked on the outdoor grills, and there are bathrooms and fountains at every park. Drinking alcohol in public is not permitted, but people seem to do it in a respectful manner.
Both Paul and I had our first driving lessons. Driving on the left side of the road will take some getting used to. I only drove on the right side once, don’t worry there was no oncoming traffic at the time.
The hottest day we’ve had was 36 degrees. Most days range from 20’s to 30’s. I apply sunscreen daily like lotion on a dry winter day.
Aussie Words
I’ve been learning some of the new lingo, here’s what I got so far:
- jumper=sweatshirt
- sunnys=sunglasses
- barbie=bbq
- air con= a/c
- sausage sizzlers=hot dogs
- petrol=gas
- esky=cooler
- give way=yield
- chemist=pharmacist
- nappy=diaper
I’m off for a couple more weeks before school starts. We are planning some road trips as well as I should be planning for school.
I’m here for your time change issues 🙂
Can’t believe how warm and beautiful it is there.
Glad you already have a good support system to help you get settled. xo
Great pics guys and glad you’re having a good time.
Claire and I are jealous of the weather although it is unseasonably warm here.
FYI: It’s 13 hours difference from here and 16 hours from BC.
Maybe we can have a Skype sometime soon?
Claire and Dan
Oh my.. you’re right. Had to double check but you’re right with time difference. Thanks!! 🙂