Bye Adelaide – Hi Perth

We made a new friend in Adelaide. The outcome of the Friends Reunited encounter was that we met Sue for tapas and a bottle of wine, we sat for 3 hours reminiscing and comparing childhood memories. It was funny, sad and entertaining all at one go – strange the things you can remember if you dig deep enough. Sue asked me if I remembered  the “Andersons” and straight away I said “are they the dirty family?” I don’t know where that came from but it was right! (hope they aren’t reading my blog!). Sue is lovely and I’m sure we will remain friends.  I’m still amazed at the coincidence!

Arrived in Perth after a two and a quarter hour flight and two hour time difference.  Found our bungalow which we have hired for one week.  For my American readers I have attached a picture of a bungalow!  This style of property is very popular in the UK. and Oz is the land of bungalows!  We actually staying in Freo – that’s what we locals call Freemantle.  It is on the Swan River estuary and the main street is one long al fresco dining experience …. it has a bohemian feel with loud music, crowds of people and a lively atmosphere………………..right up our street – we love it.  It feels like Key West or other places where people go to enjoy an uncomplicated lifestyle.  Yesterday, Sunday, we had a lazy day.  Got up for breakfast in our bungalow and went back to bed for two hours!  This travelling around, enjoying ourselves is very tiring. 

I am right now sitting in a pavement cafe having ordered my long black coffee and considering the differences between Sydney/Melbourne and Adelaide/Perth.  The first two are like Capital cities world wide – skyscrapers, river side walks, beautiful restaurants, theatres etc.  Adelaide/Perth have less of a wow factor and are similar to our towns like Leicester, Portsmouth or Norwich.  The one common factor so far has been sunshine and friendly people.