Reflecting on Our First Month in Australia: Adventures, Challenges, and Fun Facts

yorickguns
Jan 2
3 min read

Our Australian adventure kicked off bright and early at 7 a.m. on December 1st, marking the start of an incredible journey filled with memorable moments and unique experiences. From navigating airline luggage policies to bonding with furry friends, our first month has been nothing short of eventful. Here’s an overview of how it’s been so far, along with some fun tidbits we’ve picked up along the way.

The Journey Begins

Leaving Belgium wasn’t without its challenges—particularly when it came to my overpacked trolley bag. At over 20 kilograms, it far exceeded the airline’s 7-kilogram cabin baggage limit. Thanks to a helpful check-in agent, some strategic reshuffling into Yorick’s backpack and a “pretend-it’s-going-home” shopping bag, we managed to board without further hiccups.

In-flight meals can be a gamble. Our first dish resembled chicken Köttbullar and was surprisingly tasty, but the subsequent meals reminded us why Singapore Airlines remains the gold standard for aeroplane cuisine.

Once in Perth, we eased into the city with a stay above the Belgian Beer Cafe, enjoying the comforts of a Stella Artois and our first Australian breakfast at Murray Mews cafe. With almond croissants and fresh coffee fueling us, we began exploring our new home.

Diving into Pet-Sitting

To avoid the stress of immediate house hunting, we opted to start our journey as pet sitters. Our first assignment was caring for Rocky, a Stafford Boxer mix with an unpredictable personality. Initially affectionate, Rocky’s mood shifted dramatically once his owner left, leaving us to navigate his protective behaviour.

Exploring Perth and Beyond

Our weekends have been spent discovering the beauty and culture of Western Australia. Fremantle, or “Freo” as the locals call it, captured our hearts with its mix of history, arts, and culinary delights. Wandering through the Victorian streetscapes and vibrant markets, we indulged in local delicacies, and ended the day with cocktails by the beach. Tingelingetuta to that!

Wildlife and Conservation Adventures

As nature enthusiasts, we’re thrilled to dive into Australia’s biodiversity. From visiting the Perth Zoo to planning trips to AQWA and Caversham Wildlife Park, we’re soaking in every moment. Each destination offers unique experiences—like Perth Zoo’s blend of history and conservation, AQWA’s mesmerizing underwater tunnel, and Caversham’s hands-on kangaroo feeding and white kangaroo encounters. Stay tuned for detailed posts about each visit!

Adjusting to Aussie Life

Life in Australia comes with its own set of quirks. For instance, wildfire smoke on the horizon is a common sight here, greeted with calm resilience rather than alarm. It’s a testament to the laid-back yet adaptive nature of Australians.

Holidays Down Under: Christmas and New Year’s in Perth

Our holidays Down Under were filled with sunshine and celebration. On Christmas, we spent a magical day in Mandurah, enjoying its coastal charm and a lively evening of fireworks at Perth Harbour. The festive crowd, balmy summer air, and dazzling lights made it unforgettable. For New Year’s Eve, a morning job interview marked fresh beginnings, while a cosy night at home with movies and snacks brought us into the new year with comfort and joy.

Fun Facts and Memorable Moments

The Aussie Art of Abbreviation: Australians have a knack for abbreviating everything. Breakfast is “brekkie,” the afternoon is “arvo,” and even Fremantle becomes “Freo.” We’re embracing the lingo—slowly but surely.
Wildfire Resilience: While wildfire smoke may alarm visitors, locals barely bat an eye. It’s a reminder of the quiet resilience and adaptability that defines life here.
First Aussie Coffee: Our first breakfast in Perth at Murray Mews introduced us to the local coffee culture. A long black for Margaux, a latte for me, and an almond croissant to share—perfect fuel for exploring!
Living with Wildlife: Spotting kangaroos basking in Whiteman Park or a rat cheekily sneaking through zoo enclosures is all part of the Australian experience. It’s a wild world, and we’re loving it.
Pet Sitting: Patience and space can work wonders with pets. After a few days of letting Rocky warm up to us on his terms, he returned to his cuddly self.

Looking Ahead

Our first month has been a mix of adjustments, discoveries, and unforgettable experiences. From cuddling with Rocky to sipping cocktails in Freo, we’ve embraced every moment. As we continue our journey, we’re excited to explore more of Western Australia’s wildlife, culture, and natural beauty. Whether it’s wandering through markets, uncovering hidden wildlife gems, or navigating the quirks of Aussie life, there’s so much more to come.

Stay tuned for more updates—and don’t forget to check out our wildlife posts for snapshots of the incredible animals we’ve encountered so far. Here’s to many more adventures in the months to come!