The good, the bad, and the cliched

So I have been writing this post for about two months bow. It is basically my thoughts on Oz one year into this adventure. I decided since I am a horrible writer a simple list would work better. Simple caveats that while I do live in Perth and work fifo this doesn't diminish my opinions. Some people have said that isn't "real Australia" but it is a big part of it and one that cannot be ignored especially in WA. I have admittedly not traveled around Oz at all, but this is something I am rectifying. Starting by getting on a plane the Melbourne in a few hours. But for now onto the list.

The good:
-the weather is fantastic in Perth. Telfer is a bit miserable in summer, but manageable.
-aussies are friendly. As a group I find them to be very outgoing.
-the pay is fantastic.
-meat pies while terrible for you are amazing. A good meat pie is not to be missed.
-there is a massive traveling aspect to Aussie culture. If you are my age and haven't been to SE Asia, Europe, and The States you are in the minority. Gap years are common and encouraged.
-it is a very safe country. I've been to some of the rougher parts of Perth and have never felt unsafe unlike when I end up in SE DC.
-outdoor lifestyle is big. You go to the beach and hang out on your patio year round.
-sunday sessions(think Sunday fun day) are an important part of the fiber of Perth.

The bad:
-the cost of living is insanely high.
-education doesn't appear to be very highly valued. Esp in the mining sector.
-it is remote from just about everywhere.
-i disagree with some of the fundamental things the government does that are largely viewed as OK. Public funding of sports, banning certain sites on the internet, etc.
-Perth lacks 4 distinct seasons. I want fall back damn it.
-no snow
-aussies are arrogant about how great Australia is. More so than Americans I find. Almost to the point of not being able to see her flaws.

The cliched:
-i just wanted a snappy title OK?

So yeah overall I have to say that Australia is treating me OK, but I am for sure moving back home. This isn't a place I want to make my long term home. I'll try and take advantage of my time here in terms of travel, something I have done a poor job of so far. It's a nice place to visit for sure, but I would recommend anyone wanting to move here long term think long and hard about it. If for no other reason than the remoteness of the entire country.

And now enter some random Aussie I didn't know read this hating on me and linking the new education plan as proof that they do care about education here.