Things are Different in Australia

I have now been in Australia for three days in some ways it is very familiar. A lot of it seems like America stepped back in time, there is even Starbucks, KFC and Target to name a few. It’s not as crowded and not as rushed. However there are some things that are pleasantly different. I had two such experiences yesterday.

The first one occurred when I dropped my camera which is why you will not see any of the amazing river that runs through Brisbane even though I enjoyed a great 1 and 1/2 free cruise on the City Hopper during a nice brisk sunny day. The Australia native that I was with assured me I would probably find it when we go back from the cruise. I have always been an optimist but I kind of doubted seeing my $200 bloggie sport ever again. When we got off the boat we retraced our steps and were directed the information center by two different people. I walked into the information center hoping my request for a miracle had been granted. The nice lady behind the counter opened up a drawer and there it was, the only thing different is someone had added a wrist strap to it. I guess there was a message in that.

The second different experience occurred while walking through Boundary Street which is known for its variety of ethnic eateries. I had a very distressed homeless person following behind us asking for something. I couldn't quite make out the accent but I think she wanted $5. I have always given money to beggars when they have asked.  I replied that I wouldn't give her the whole amount but I could give her something. I did not realize in Australia the bigger the coin the less the value. So I gave her what was worth .50 cents. Apparently it wasn't enough so she gave it back. I guess beggars can be choosers in the land of OZ. I’m off to Day Dream Island tomorrow just outside the Great Barrier Reef.