The week I spent in Perth, Western Australia was amazing.  The locals were nice, and they told me that Perth is a bit like the wild west since most Australians live in the east, but I found it quite charming.  Perth is a laid back beach city.  It feels like San Diego but with fewer people.

While I was talking to the locals, I discovered that “two countries separated by a common language” definitely applies.  For example, the subject of EA-18G Growler electronic jamming jets that the Australian Air Force is buying came up in conversation.  It turns out that in some dialects of English, a “growler” is a sexual act.  Also, I was called “a good c**t.”  The speaker quickly explained that it was an all-purpose word that could be used for friends, enemies, or inanimate objects.  Australians say it a lot.

Back to more public topics, there’s beer everywhere in Australia.  Restaurant prices were a little steep, but not out of line for a beachside city.  One thing I didn’t like about the restaurants was that several times from several different places I ordered a milkshake and instead received flavored milk with no ice cream thickness.

I rented a bicycle and was able to get most places I wanted to go.  There’s also a helpful train.  One day I stumbled upon the Western Australia Army Museum.  It was pretty good and I learned a lot.  I was also surprised to learn that SASR, Australian special operations forces, has a base in Perth.  No wonder it reminds me of San Diego.

The highlight of the trip was a jaunt to Rottnest Island.  The ferry was expensive, but the island was interesting.  The best part were the quokkas.  Google it.

I found Australian money a little confusing.  The fifty-cent pieces were huge, and the two-dollar coins were some of the smallest.