Australia is like a sprawling small town.  Outside of the city's there are NO high rise buildings!! Seriously, nothing taller than three stories.  And most of the buildings are from the 1900's and are painted colourfully.  The stores are mostly independently owned.  It is very hard to find a place to fax or photocopy, etc.  It can be frustrating coming from a place where every corner store is well equiped with these services.

          Yet Aussies are way ahead of us in other ways.  For example, they don't have pennies. They round up or down to the nearest 5 cents. And their transit system is the best I've ever seen.

          Pools and Beaches are essentials. Australia is in a serious drought, so showering, etc. can't be used to lower your body temperature.  The Ocean is generally cooler than the air, but sometimes not by much. And the pools are usually hot.  For example, where I am staying there are canvas shades hung over the pool to try to keep it cool.