So far we've been here 5 days but feels a lot longer, as we've been running around like (albeit slightly lazy) blue-arsed flies trying to get all of the 'personal admin' out of the way: we now have a bank account, a mobile phone (get in touch if you want the number), a travel card, know the public transport system pretty well, and have visited some top spots close to the city already! Oh - and it look like I may have a job!
Had a meeting yesterday with a recruitment consultant who basically told me I was highly unlikely to get sponsored on the back of a 6 month temp contract, and advised me whatever offer I got from pee-dubs was likely to be the best I could get... Mildly depressing, but at least I do have an offer and that should give us both more options, not least because Phil should be able to get sponsored on my visa, so the lucky sod can have his pick of employers as he isn't restricted to a temp contract! Although I can't complain as chances are he could end up earning more (engineers are more highly sought after)...
Spoke to my boss-to-be this morning and still no details of my offer, and I get the feeling they're going to get as much out of me as possible for as little as possible, but beggars most definitely can't be choosers, and if it means we don't need to panic about finding work then it is most definitely worth it!
Anyway, back to more fun topics, we've already visited King's park in the city (largest inner city green space in the world I think), and been to a museum (on day 1 no less!) that Phil likened to Sevenoaks museum - yes, that impressive. We took our time getting there, but have finally made it to some city beaches (south beach in freo and cottesloe beach) that are about 20mins on the overland train (a speedy efficient tube-like service) from the heart of the business district! Seen some kitesurfers and windsurfers, and there has definitely been some wind which has kept the place pretty cool despite the sun, but we don't have our kit yet so not getting too excited.
I think I need to be careful in this place - we've already had 2 ice creams in 2 days... which may have been 2 of the best ice creams I've ever had in my life, due to the heavy Italian influence there seems to be in fremantle. The food is outrageously expensive but is also very good (and the wine is pretty damn good too) so maybe our "active lifestyle" may be more food-oriented than originally planned...
And continuing a theme, we've now hired a campervan from 15th-24th November before I have to start work (possibly on 26th) and we're planning on driving down to Margaret River to do some serious sunbathing/ wine tasting / snorkelling / holidaying before we start the boring bit (work).
So - first impressions: everyone seems very friendly and welcoming, in particular the lovely Richard and his family who have practically adopted us and have been so generous; there are quite a few 'red-neck' types, reminding us of the film 'idiocracy'; the weather is beautiful but deceptive - whilst it may be warm and sunny by day, in the evenings if you're still dressed like a stupid British tourist (i.e. vest and shorts) it can get near hypothermic in the evening with the sea breeze blowing in; the train system is prompt, clean and never that busy; there are parrot-like birds just casually hanging out in trees in the city; the city itself is all new and shiny but only a couple of blocks away there are quite shabby looking houses that look quite outer-suburb-y yet are a stones throw from the CBD (central business district); and there is a slightly 'local' feel to the place given its isolated nature.
Overall, it seems like an amazing place to live and work, but with a few little quirks - quite a few of the Brits here don't seem to necessarily like Aussies (and I'm sure the feeling is mutual!), and I've already heard some casual racism/homophobia... Sunshine and incredible beaches make up for a lot though, and the city itself is pretty exciting, so looking forward to living (if not working) here!
Still don't have wifi so can't post pictures yet, but will in due course.
Love from us xxx
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